The retina is a thin layer of tissue that lines the back of the eye and contains specialized cells called photoreceptors that convert light into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. The retina is a crucial component of the visual system, and a healthy retina is essential for good vision for several reasons. The retina is responsible for processing visual information and sending it to the brain via the optic nerve. Damage to the retina can result in vision loss or distortion, such as blind spots or wavy lines.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision.While there are some treatments available for AMD, there are still some unmet needs in the field of AMD treatment. Dry AMD, the most common form of the disease, has no approved treatment options. While some treatments can slow the progression of wet AMD, there are currently no treatments that can reverse the damage caused by dry AMD. There is a need for more effective treatments for this form of the disease.According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that approximately 196million people worldwide will have AMD by 2020, with that number expected to increase to 288 million by 2040.
Learn MoreGlaucoma is a complex and progressive eye disease that can cause irreversible damage to the optic nerve and result in vision loss if left untreated. While current treatments for glaucoma can lower eye pressure and slow the progression of the disease, they do not necessarily protect the optic nerve from damage. There is a need for neuroprotective therapies that can prevent or repair damage to the optic nerve and improve visual outcomes. The prevalence of glaucoma, or the proportion of the population with the disease, is increasing globally as the population ages. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that approximately 80 million people worldwide will have glaucoma by 2020, with that number expected to increase to 111.8 million by 2040.
Learn MoreWe developed a novel AAV capsid for single intravitreal injection to increase transduction and reduce immunogenicity. We are using this capsid to deliver our genes of interest into retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and retinal pigment epithelium cells (PREs).
Read more
Different from the most common approaches to treating Retinal Ganglion Cell eye diseases, our focus is on inhibiting rather than
We identified a target that can protect most of all retinal ganglion cells in disease models. This target preserve the function and survival of neurons in the retina, which can help to maintain vision and prevent further vision loss. Neuroprotection could potentially slow down or stop the progression of these diseases such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.
Our molecule inhibits the early prevention of drusen formation to reduce the risk of developing AMD, preserve vision, and potentially lead to cost savings and improved understanding and treatment of the disease. Large drusen are a known risk factor for AMD, and the presence of these deposits can increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Preventing or reducing the formation of drusen may help to lower the risk of developing AMD.
Follow our research_Blue-purp_gradient_wht.svg){kind=logo}
