Avirmax Biopharma, Inc. has announced the successful 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 transformative treatment for these severe retinal diseases.
Addressing Unmet Needs in Wet AMD and PCV Treatment
Wet AMD and PCV are serious retinal conditions that can lead to significant vision loss. Current treatments often involve frequent injections, providing only temporary relief. ABI-110 aims to provide a more durable and effective solution by targeting the underlying genetic causes of these conditions.
"We are thrilled to announce this significant milestone in the clinical investigation of ABI-110," said Shawn Liu, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Avirmax Biopharma Inc. "ABI-110 has the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for Wet AMD and PCV."
ABI-110: A Novel Gene Therapy Approach
ABI-110, Avirmax Biopharma's proprietary gene therapy, employs an engineered AAV2.N54 capsid to efficiently deliver a therapeutic transgene to the macular retina. This approach is designed to offer a long-lasting solution, overcoming the limitations of current treatments that require repeated administration.
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 trial will provide critical data on the potential of ABI-110 to address the root causes of these conditions at the genetic level.
"Dosing the first patient marks a pivotal step forward in Avirmax's mission to bring transformative gene therapies to patients suffering from severe retinal diseases," said Wendy Murahashi, M.D., Chief Medical Officer of Avirmax Biopharma Inc.
