Neuracle Genetics, in collaboration with Reyon Pharmaceutical, has announced that NG101, an innovative gene therapy for wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD), has received Fast Track Designation from the U.S. FDA. This designation aims to accelerate the development and review of NG101, recognizing its potential to address unmet medical needs in treating wet AMD.
NG101: A Novel Approach to Wet AMD Treatment
NG101 employs an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector to deliver the gene encoding aflibercept, the active ingredient in Eylea, a standard treatment for wet AMD with approximately 13 trillion KRW in 2023 sales. Unlike current anti-VEGF therapies that require frequent injections, NG101 is designed to provide sustained therapeutic effects through a single subretinal injection, potentially reducing the burden on patients and healthcare systems.
Benefits of Fast Track Designation
The FDA's Fast Track Designation offers several advantages, including increased opportunities for collaboration with the FDA on clinical trial design and data analysis. It also allows for a rolling review process, where data sections can be submitted incrementally. Furthermore, NG101 is now eligible for Accelerated Approval after Phase 2 trials and Priority Review after Phase 3 trials, potentially leading to faster market access.
Phase 1/2a Clinical Trial Update
Neuracle Genetics has completed dosing the first cohort in its Phase 1/2a clinical trial for NG101 in North America. The trial is enrolling patients who have previously undergone intensive treatment, having received at least three anti-VEGF therapies in the past six months. The study is divided into three cohorts—low dose (1x10^9 vg/eye), medium dose (3x10^9 vg/eye) and high dose—with six patients in each group.
The first cohort, consisting of six patients, received the low dose via subretinal injection across sites in the U.S. and Canada. The Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) reviewed the data and confirmed no serious adverse events (SAEs) related to the procedure or the drug. The trial is now proceeding to the second cohort with the medium dose.
Addressing the Burden of Wet AMD
Wet AMD is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness, characterized by abnormal blood vessel formation and rupture in the macula. The prevalence of wet AMD is increasing with global aging. Current anti-VEGF treatments, while effective, require repeated administrations and can lose efficacy over time. NG101 offers a promising alternative with its potential for long-term efficacy and reduced treatment burden. Preclinical studies have shown that NG101 achieves significant therapeutic effects and high gene expression at lower doses compared to competitors, suggesting a favorable safety and efficacy profile.
