Genflow Biosciences, Europe's only publicly listed longevity company, announced on April 10, 2025, the launch of a new ophthalmology development program focused on novel gene therapy applications. The program will leverage the company's proprietary Centenarian SIRT6 (cSIRT6) technology delivered through a specially designed non-viral vector system engineered for precise ocular delivery.
The London-based biotechnology firm has signed a Material Transfer Agreement (MTA) with an unnamed leading ophthalmology company to collaborate on the design and development of eye-targeted cSIRT6 non-viral vectors. These therapies aim to address several ocular conditions, including corneal pathologies and glaucoma.
"We are thrilled to advance our ophthalmology program," said Dr. Eric Leire, CEO of Genflow Biosciences. "The eye, as a closed and accessible compartment, presents an ideal target for gene therapy. More importantly, we believe that SIRT6 holds significant promise to transform the treatment landscape for corneal endothelial disorders and glaucoma."
Strategic Expansion into Ophthalmology
The move into ophthalmology represents a strategic expansion of Genflow's therapeutic applications for its SIRT6 technology. The company has focused on developing gene therapies that could potentially slow the aging process and address age-related diseases.
The eye presents unique advantages for gene therapy applications. Its relatively isolated nature creates a contained environment that can limit systemic exposure while allowing for direct observation of therapeutic effects. Additionally, the immune-privileged status of certain ocular tissues may reduce the risk of adverse immune responses to the therapy.
The Science Behind SIRT6 Technology
Genflow's proprietary technology centers around the SIRT6 gene, which plays a crucial role in DNA repair, genomic stability, and metabolic regulation. The company's approach utilizes a variant of SIRT6 found in centenarians—individuals who have lived to at least 100 years of age—which may confer longevity benefits.
Research suggests that SIRT6 may help protect against age-related cellular damage in various tissues, including those in the eye. By delivering this centenarian variant to ocular tissues, Genflow aims to address the underlying cellular mechanisms involved in corneal disorders and glaucoma.
Non-Viral Vector Delivery System
A key component of Genflow's ophthalmology program is the development of a specialized non-viral vector system for ocular delivery. While many gene therapies rely on viral vectors, non-viral approaches may offer advantages in terms of safety, manufacturing scalability, and reduced immunogenicity.
The collaboration with an established ophthalmology company suggests that Genflow is seeking to combine its proprietary SIRT6 technology with proven expertise in ocular drug delivery systems. This partnership could potentially accelerate the development timeline and increase the chances of clinical success.
Broader Pipeline Development
The ophthalmology program adds to Genflow's growing pipeline of SIRT6-based therapies. The company initiated a 12-month proof-of-concept clinical trial evaluating their SIRT6-centenarian gene therapy in aged dogs in March 2025. Additionally, Genflow plans to explore the potential benefits of its lead compound, GF-1002, in treating Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), a prevalent chronic liver disease with limited treatment options.
Market Implications
Ophthalmology represents a substantial market opportunity, with glaucoma alone affecting approximately 80 million people worldwide. Current treatments for corneal disorders and glaucoma primarily focus on symptom management rather than addressing underlying cellular mechanisms.
If successful, Genflow's gene therapy approach could potentially offer more durable and effective treatment options for these conditions. The company's focus on non-viral delivery systems may also address some of the manufacturing and safety challenges associated with traditional viral vector-based gene therapies.
Future Outlook
While Genflow has not disclosed a specific timeline for its ophthalmology program, the signing of the MTA represents an important first step in the development process. The company will likely need to conduct extensive preclinical studies before advancing any candidates to human clinical trials.
As the only publicly listed longevity company in Europe, Genflow's expansion into ophthalmology highlights the growing interest in applying longevity science to specific age-related conditions. The company's approach of targeting the SIRT6 pathway across multiple indications suggests a platform strategy that could potentially yield multiple therapeutic candidates.
