Opus Genetics Launches First MERTK Gene Therapy Clinical Trial for Rare Inherited Blindness
Key Insights
Opus Genetics has launched a clinical trial for OPGx-MERTK, an AAV-based gene therapy targeting MERTK-related retinitis pigmentosa (search), a rare inherited eye disease affecting approximately 60,000 patients worldwide.
The trial will be conducted at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi starting in 2026, funded through Abu Dhabi's Healthcare Research and Innovation Fund, marking the first MERTK (search) gene therapy clinical trial in the UAE.
The investigational therapy delivers a functional copy of the MERTK (search) gene to retinal cells, addressing mutations that impair the retina's ability to recycle photoreceptor components and lead to progressive vision loss.
Opus Genetics has announced the launch of a groundbreaking clinical trial evaluating OPGx-MERTK, an investigational gene therapy for MERTK-related retinitis pigmentosa (search), a rare inherited eye disease that causes progressive vision loss and eventual blindness. The trial represents the first clinical study targeting this specific genetic form of retinal degeneration, offering hope to an estimated 60,000 patients worldwide who currently have no approved treatment options.
International Collaboration in Abu Dhabi
The study will be conducted at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi starting in 2026, funded through Abu Dhabi's Healthcare Research and Innovation Fund. The collaboration involves the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (search), Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, the Innovative Research Oversight and Support division of the M42 group (search), and the Authority of Social Contribution - Ma'an. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi will serve as the clinical site, equipped with advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical expertise and specialized retinal disease clinics.
"By hosting the first MERTK (search) gene therapy clinical trial in the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is demonstrating its leadership in precision medicine and rare disease innovation while turning scientific possibility into tangible impact for patients," said H.E. Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (search).
Addressing Critical Unmet Medical Need
MERTK-related retinitis pigmentosa (search) affects approximately 60,000 patients worldwide, with inherited retinal diseases (search) affecting an estimated 5% of the population in Abu Dhabi and the wider region. The condition results from mutations in the MERTK (search) gene that impair the retina's ability to recycle photoreceptor components, leading to progressive degeneration and vision loss. Currently, no approved treatments exist for this form of retinitis pigmentosa (search).
The investigational therapy, OPGx-MERTK, is an adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy designed to deliver a functional copy of the MERTK (search) gene to retinal cells. The clinical trial will evaluate both the safety and efficacy of this approach in addressing the underlying genetic cause of the disease.
Clinical Significance and Future Impact
"Launching our clinical trial for a MERTK (search) gene therapy is a defining moment for patients and for the field of inherited retinal disease," said George Magrath, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Opus Genetics. "For patients living with MERTK-related retinitis pigmentosa (search), this trial represents the first real opportunity to potentially change the course of a disease that has historically led to inevitable vision loss."
Dr. Fahed Al Marzooqi, Chief Executive Officer of M42's Integrated Health Solutions, emphasized the broader implications: "This trial represents a pivotal step in strengthening Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for biotech innovation. Through strategic partnerships and clinical excellence, we are translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world treatments for patients with urgent, unmet needs."
Comprehensive Gene Therapy Pipeline
Opus Genetics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing gene therapies to restore vision and prevent blindness in patients with inherited retinal diseases (search). The company's pipeline includes seven AAV-based programs, led by OPGx-LCA5 (search) for LCA5-related mutations and OPGx-BEST1 (search) for BEST1-related retinal degeneration, with additional candidates targeting RHO (search), CNGB1 (search), RDH12 (search), NMNAT1 (search), and MERTK (search).
The MERTK (search) program's advancement to clinical development marks a major milestone for rare disease research and precision medicine in Abu Dhabi and the wider region, reinforcing the area's position as a destination for advanced healthcare and life sciences research.