Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the principal driver of blindness in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD). Abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the macular leads to retinal damage and severe vision loss. Discovering the involvement of VEGF in the underlying mechanisms driving ocular angiogenesis has resulted in the development of multiple VEGF-targeted ocular therapeutics where none had previously existed.

The Need

Current therapies for ocular neovascular disorders targeting VEGF, while effective, pose challenges such as adverse effects on retinal cells and decreased efficacy over time. There is a critical need for alternative treatments that target neovascularization with minimal impact on normal ocular function and provide sustained efficacy.

The Technology

Researchers at The Ohio State University have developed a novel therapeutic for ocular disorders involving neovascularization that focuses on targeting telomerase to inhibit the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Through genetic and pharmacological approaches, the novel technology suppresses telomerase activity, effectively reducing CNV growth. This non-viral therapeutic strategy offers a promising alternative to conventional anti-VEGF therapies, potentially mitigating their adverse effects while maintaining therapeutic efficacy.

Commercial Application

• Treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD).
• Management of other ocular diseases driven by pathological neovascularization, such as diabetic retinopathy and corneal neovascularization.
• Potential application in combination therapies to enhance treatment outcomes in ocular neovascular diseases.

Benefits/Advantages

• Targeted therapy: Specifically inhibits telomerase activity associated with CNV development, minimizing off-target effects.
• Sustained efficacy: Offers a potential long-term solution for managing ocular neovascular diseases, maintaining therapeutic benefits over time.
• Versatility: Can be adapted for use in various ocular diseases driven by neovascularization expanding its therapeutic applications.
• Potential for combination therapy: Shows synergistic effects when combined with sub-therapeutic doses of anti-VEGF antibodies, providing enhanced therapeutic outcomes.

Patent application pending