Avirmax Biopharma has announced the dosing of the first patient in its Phase I/IIa clinical trial of ABI-110, a gene therapy designed to treat wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). This marks a significant step forward in the development of a potentially more effective and durable treatment option for these conditions.
Shawn Liu, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of Avirmax Biopharma Inc., stated, "We are thrilled to announce this significant milestone in the clinical investigation of ABI-110. ABI-110 has the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for Wet AMD and PCV."
Addressing the Root Cause of Wet AMD
ABI-110 is designed to address the underlying genetic causes of wet AMD, offering a potentially more durable and effective solution compared to current treatments that primarily manage symptoms. The gene therapy utilizes Avirmax Biopharma's proprietary engineered capsid, AAV2.N54, to efficiently deliver a therapeutic transgene to the macular retina.
Trial Design and Objectives
The Phase I/IIa clinical trial is structured to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of ABI-110 in patients diagnosed with wet AMD and PCV. The study will monitor patients for adverse events and assess changes in visual acuity and retinal anatomy following a single administration of ABI-110. This trial aims to determine if ABI-110 can provide a long-lasting therapeutic effect, reducing the need for frequent intravitreal injections, which are the current standard of care.
Potential Impact on Treatment Landscape
If successful, ABI-110 could significantly alter the treatment paradigm for wet AMD and PCV. By targeting the genetic factors contributing to the disease, ABI-110 has the potential to offer a more sustainable and effective solution, improving the long-term visual outcomes and quality of life for patients.
