BlueRock Therapeutics, a Bayer subsidiary, has announced FDA clearance for its Investigational New Drug (IND) application for OpCT-001, a cell therapy for primary photoreceptor diseases. This approval paves the way for a Phase I/IIa clinical trial to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and potential efficacy of this novel treatment, offering hope for patients facing irreversible vision loss.
The first-in-human study will investigate the impact of subretinal administration of OpCT-001 on retinal structure, visual function, and overall vision. The trial will involve multiple sites across the US and assess varying dose levels to determine the optimal therapeutic range.
Addressing Unmet Needs in Photoreceptor Diseases
Primary photoreceptor diseases, including retinitis pigmentosa and cone-rod dystrophy, affect an estimated 110,000 people in the US. These inherited retinal disorders damage photoreceptor cells, leading to progressive and irreversible vision loss in both children and adults. Current treatment options are limited, highlighting the urgent need for innovative therapies like OpCT-001.
“We are pleased with the immense progress we have made to date and thrilled that the FDA has cleared our IND application to initiate clinical testing for OpCT-001,” said Amit Rakhit, chief development and medical officer at BlueRock Therapeutics. “We believe that OpCT-001 has the potential to restore vision in people living with primary photoreceptor diseases and look forward to working with the ophthalmology community in initiating our Phase I/IIa clinical study.”
OpCT-001: A Novel iPSC-Derived Cell Therapy
OpCT-001 is an investigational cell therapy derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). It is designed to replace damaged or degenerated photoreceptor cells in the retina with healthy, functional cells, potentially restoring vision in affected individuals. This approach represents a significant advancement in regenerative medicine for inherited retinal disorders.
BlueRock Therapeutics exclusively licensed OpCT-001 from FUJIFILM Cellular Dynamics and Opsis Therapeutics in January 2024. This agreement builds upon a strategic research, development, and clinical manufacturing collaboration established in 2021. FUJIFILM Cellular Dynamics has played a crucial role in supporting BlueRock by conducting research, development, and executing critical IND-enabling activities, including the clinical manufacturing of OpCT-001 at its cGMP facility in Madison, Wisconsin.
Trial Design and Endpoints
The Phase I/IIa study is designed to evaluate the safety and tolerability of OpCT-001 following subretinal administration. Researchers will also assess the therapy's impact on retinal structure, visual function, and functional vision. The study will enroll participants across multiple sites in the US and will explore various dose levels of OpCT-001 to optimize treatment outcomes.
