Ocugen, Inc. has received orphan medicinal product designation from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for OCU410ST, a cell therapy being developed for the treatment of ABCA4-associated retinopathies. This includes Stargardt disease, retinitis pigmentosa 19 (RP19), and cone-rod dystrophy 3 (CORD3). The FDA previously granted orphan drug designation to OCU410ST in April 2023.
This regulatory milestone supports the potential of OCU410ST as a one-time therapy for life-long treatment of inherited retinal diseases. Stargardt disease, the most common form of inherited macular degeneration, affects approximately 1 in 8,000 to 10,000 individuals. Currently, there are limited treatment options available, creating a significant unmet medical need.
Addressing Unmet Needs in Retinal Diseases
"We are deeply honored to receive orphan medicinal product designation from the EMA for OCU410ST. This recognition brings us one step closer to providing a much-needed option for Stargardt patients who currently have no therapies available," said Dr. Arun Upadhyay, Chief Scientific Officer and Head of R&D at Ocugen. "We are committed to advancing this treatment with urgency and dedication, with the hope of making a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by this challenging disease."
OCU410ST: A Novel Therapeutic Approach
OCU410ST is being developed as a cell therapy to address the underlying genetic defects associated with ABCA4-related retinopathies. The therapy aims to restore retinal function and prevent further vision loss in affected individuals. Ocugen plans to pursue an accelerated marketing authorization application for OCU410ST, reflecting the urgent need for effective treatments for these debilitating conditions.
Huma Qamar, Chief Medical Officer at Ocugen, noted, "These positive clinical and regulatory milestones continue to support the potential for OCU410ST to address inherited retinal diseases with a one-time therapy for life."
