Zhaoke Ophthalmology Limited has announced positive top-line results from its Phase 3 clinical trial of TAB014 for the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Meanwhile, Valo Health has decided to seek a partner for further development of OPL-0401, a drug candidate for diabetic retinopathy, after disappointing Phase 2 results.
TAB014 Shows Promise in Wet AMD Treatment
The Phase 3 trial results indicate that TAB014 met its primary and key secondary endpoints for wet AMD. Zhaoke Ophthalmology has full control over the clinical development and commercialization of TAB014 in China, Hong Kong, and Macau through an agreement with TOT BIOPHARM. The successful trial outcome represents a significant step forward in addressing the unmet needs in wet AMD treatment within these regions.
Valo Health Seeks Partner for OPL-0401 after Phase 2 Disappointment
Valo Health will no longer independently develop OPL-0401 after the drug failed to meet either the primary or secondary endpoints in the SPECTRA trial. The company reported that OPL-0401 was well-tolerated, and some data suggested potential in preventing disease progression in diabetic retinopathy. Valo Health is now seeking a partner to continue the program's development.
Brian Alexander, CEO of Valo Health and CEO-Partner of Flagship Pioneering, stated that the company will refocus its efforts on using its AI-tool, Opal, to discover new therapeutic targets, validate them in human-centric models, and develop new medicines with its AI-enabled closed loop small molecule design.
Caplin Steriles Receives FDA Approval for Generic Difluprednate Ophthalmic Emulsion
Caplin Steriles Limited has received final FDA approval for its Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion, 0.05%. This generic eye drop is a therapeutic equivalent to Sandoz Inc.'s DUREZOL and is indicated for treating inflammation and pain associated with ocular surgery, as well as endogenous anterior uveitis.
GEMMABio Secures Funding for Gene Therapy Programs
GEMMABio has raised $34 million in seed funding to advance its portfolio of gene therapy programs. The funding round was led by Double Point Ventures, Bioluminescence Ventures, and Earlybird Venture Capital, with additional backing from Savanne Life Sciences. Building on a previous $100 million boost, GEMMABio plans to manufacture and test six gene therapies in Brazil, targeting a range of rare diseases in partnership with Fiocruz, under Brazil’s publicly funded health care system (SUS).
