Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration (nAMD) is a progressive eye condition affecting older adults, especially those over 50. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the macula, the central part of the retina, causing vision loss. This growth is driven by VEGFs A, C, and D, which promote angiogenesis and vascular permeability.
Symptoms include distorted or blurry central vision, making reading and recognizing faces challenging. nAMD is a leading cause of severe vision impairment and blindness in developed countries. Although the exact cause is unknown, genetics, age, and smoking increase the risk. Treatments like anti-VEGF injections and photodynamic therapy can help slow its progression, but early detection and regular eye check-ups are crucial for better management.
Clinical Trial
A phase 2b
clinical trial was conducted to test the safety and efficacy of a biologic inhibitor called OPT-302, which targets VEGF-C and D. Participants with nAMD were enrolled from various locations and randomized to receive different treatments. The primary outcome measured was the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) change at 24 weeks. Secondary outcomes included the proportion of participants with significant BCVA improvements or declines, changes in retinal thickness, and fluid accumulation. Three hundred and sixty-six participants were recruited and received either 0.5 mg or 2.0 mg OPT-302 or a sham treatment combined with intravitreal ranibizumab.
Results
The 2.0 mg OPT-302 group had significantly better visual acuity gains than the sham group. The 0.5 mg OPT-302 group did not differ significantly from the sham group. Structural outcomes also favored both OPT-302 dosage groups. Adverse events were similar across groups, and serious AEs were rare.
Conclusion
The combination therapy with 2.0 mg OPT-302 and ranibizumab was more effective in improving vision than the standard nAMD treatment. The treatment also showed good safety profiles. Further research and trials may be needed to validate and optimize this promising therapy for nAMD.
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