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Servillo A, Sacconi R, Oldoni G, Barlocci E, Tombolini B, Battista M, Fantaguzzi F, Rissotto F, Mularoni C, Parravano M, Zucchiatti I, Querques L, Bandello F, Querques G. Advancements in Imaging and Therapeutic Options for Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Geographic Atrophy. Ophthalmol Ther 2024; 13:2067-2082. [PMID: 38833127 PMCID: PMC11246354 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-024-00970-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in the elderly, with dry AMD (d-AMD) leading to geographic atrophy (GA) and significant visual impairment. Multimodal imaging plays a crucial role in d-AMD diagnosis and management, allowing for detailed classification of patient phenotypes and aiding in treatment planning and prognosis determination. Treatment approaches for d-AMD have recently witnessed profound change with the development of specific drugs targeting the complement cascade, with the first anticomplement agents recently approved for GA treatment. Additionally, emerging strategies such as gene therapy and laser treatments may offer potential benefits, though further research is needed to fully establish their efficacy. However, the lack of effective therapies capable of restoring damaged retinal cells remains a major challenge. In the future, genetic treatments aimed at preventing the progression of d-AMD may emerge as a powerful approach. Currently, however, their development is still in the early stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Servillo
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Riccardo Sacconi
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Gloria Oldoni
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Eugenio Barlocci
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Beatrice Tombolini
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Battista
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Fantaguzzi
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Rissotto
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Cecilia Mularoni
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Zucchiatti
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Lea Querques
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Querques
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.
- Division of Head and Neck, Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy.
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Vassallo J. Correspondence. Retina 2024; 44:e53. [PMID: 38684107 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000004133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- James Vassallo
- Ophthalmology Department, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
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3
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Vujosevic S, Lupidi M, Donati S, Astarita C, Gallinaro V, Pilotto E. Role of inflammation in diabetic macular edema and neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Surv Ophthalmol 2024:S0039-6257(24)00080-8. [PMID: 39029747 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2024.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Diabetic macular edema (DME) and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) are multifactorial disorders that affect the macula and cause significant vision loss. Although inflammation and neoangiogenesis are hallmarks of DME and nAMD, respectively, they share some biochemical mediators. While inflammation is a trigger for the processes that lead to the development of DME, in nAMD inflammation seems to be the consequence of retinal pigment epithelium and Bruch membrane alterations. These pathophysiologic differences may be the key issue that justifies the difference in treatment strategies. Vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors have changed the treatment of both diseases, however, many patients with DME fail to achieve the established therapeutic goals. From a clinical perspective, targeting inflammatory pathways with intravitreal corticosteroids has been proven to be effective in patients with DME. On the contrary, the clinical relevance of addressing inflammation in patients with nAMD has not been proven yet. We explore the role and implication of inflammation in the development of nAMD and DME and its therapeutical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stela Vujosevic
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Eye Clinic, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Lupidi
- Eye Clinic, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Simone Donati
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria of Varese, Varese, Italy
| | - Carlo Astarita
- AbbVie S.r.l., SR 148 Pontina, 04011, Campoverde, LT, Italy
| | | | - Elisabetta Pilotto
- Department of Neuroscience-Ophthalmology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Keenan TDL, Agrón E, Keane PA, Domalpally A, Chew EY. Oral Antioxidant and Lutein/Zeaxanthin Supplements Slow Geographic Atrophy Progression to the Fovea in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Ophthalmology 2024:S0161-6420(24)00425-1. [PMID: 39025435 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2024.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The only treatments approved to slow geographic atrophy (GA) progression in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) require frequent intraocular injection and suffer from modest efficacy, important risks, and high costs. The purpose of this study was to determine whether oral supplements slow GA progression in AMD. DESIGN Post hoc analysis of the Age-Related Eye Diseases Study (AREDS) and AREDS2, multi-center randomized placebo-controlled trials of oral micronutrient supplementation, each with 2x2 factorial design. PARTICIPANTS 392 eyes (318 participants) with GA in AREDS; 1210 eyes (891 participants) with GA in AREDS2. METHODS AREDS participants were randomly assigned to oral antioxidants (500 mg vitamin C; 400 IU vitamin E; 15 mg β-carotene); 80 mg zinc; combination; or placebo. AREDS2 participants were randomly assigned to 10 mg lutein/2 mg zeaxanthin; 350 mg docosahexaenoic acid/650 mg eicosapentaenoic acid; combination; or placebo. Consenting AREDS2 participants were also randomly assigned to alternative AREDS formulations: original; no beta-carotene; 25 mg zinc instead of 80 mg; both. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES (1) Change in GA proximity to central macula over time, and (2) change in square root GA area over time, each measured from color fundus photographs at annual visits and analyzed by mixed-model regression according to randomized assignments. RESULTS In AREDS eyes with non-central GA (n=208), proximity-based progression towards the central macula was significantly slower with randomization to antioxidants versus none, at 50.7 μm/year (95% CI 38.0-63.4 μm/year) versus 72.9 μm/year (95% CI 61.3-84.5 μm/year; p=0.012), respectively. In AREDS2 eyes with non-central GA, in participants assigned to AREDS antioxidants without β-carotene (n=325 eyes), proximity-based progression was significantly slower with randomization to lutein/zeaxanthin versus none, at 80.1 μm/year (95% CI 60.9-99.3 μm/year) versus 114.4 μm/year (95% CI 96.2-132.7 μm/year; p=0.011), respectively. In AREDS eyes with any GA (n=392), area-based progression was not significantly different with randomization to antioxidants versus none (p=0.63). In AREDS2 eyes with any GA, in participants assigned to AREDS antioxidants without β-carotene (n=505 eyes), area-based progression was not significantly different with randomization to lutein/zeaxanthin versus none (p=0.64). CONCLUSIONS Oral micronutrient supplementation slowed GA progression towards the central macula, likely by augmenting the natural phenomenon of foveal sparing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiarnan D L Keenan
- Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.
| | - Elvira Agrón
- Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Pearse A Keane
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Amitha Domalpally
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Emily Y Chew
- Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
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Pazur E, Kalatanova A, Tasker NR, Vainionpää K, Leinonen H, Wipf P. Synthesis and Biological Analysis of Iso-dimethyltryptamines in a Model of Light-Induced Retinal Degeneration. ACS Med Chem Lett 2024; 15:1049-1056. [PMID: 39015263 PMCID: PMC11247652 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.4c00130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Iso-dimethyltryptamine (isoDMT) analogues with heterocyclic substitutions at the indole C(3) were prepared in a hydrogen autotransfer alkylation and tested in combination with natural and unnatural clavine alkaloids in a model of light-induced retinal degeneration for protection against retinal degeneration. On the basis of measurements with optical coherence tomography and electroretinography, three compounds showed better efficacy than the positive control bromocriptine at equivalent systemically administered doses. These studies provide further insights into the role of serotonin receptors and their potential therapeutic applications in ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan
J. Pazur
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Anna Kalatanova
- Yliopistonrinne
3, Canthia, School of Pharmacy, University
of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Nikhil R. Tasker
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Katri Vainionpää
- Yliopistonrinne
3, Canthia, School of Pharmacy, University
of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Henri Leinonen
- Yliopistonrinne
3, Canthia, School of Pharmacy, University
of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Peter Wipf
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
- Yliopistonrinne
3, Canthia, School of Pharmacy, University
of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
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Robman LD, Wolfe R, Woods RL, Thao LTP, Makeyeva GA, Hodgson LAB, Lepham YA, Jachno K, Phung J, Maguire E, Luong H, Trevaks RE, Ward SA, Fitzgerald SM, Orchard SG, Lacaze P, Storey E, Abhayaratna WP, Nelson MR, Guymer RH, McNeil JJ. Effect of Low-Dose Aspirin on the Course of Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Secondary Analysis of the ASPREE Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Ophthalmol 2024; 142:627-635. [PMID: 38780931 PMCID: PMC11117148 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.1584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Importance Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in old age. There is no proven intervention to prevent AMD and, apart from lifestyle, nutritional, and supplement advice, there is no intervention to delay its progression. Objective To determine the impact of long-term low-dose aspirin on the incidence and progression of AMD. Design, Setting and Participants The Aspirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly-AMD (ASPREE-AMD) study was an Australian-based substudy of the ASPREE trial, a multicenter, international, randomized, double-masked, placebo-clinical trial investigating the efficacy of low-dose aspirin in prolonging disability-free survival among older individuals. Retinal photography was conducted at baseline from March 2010 to January 2015, then 3 and 5 years after randomization. AMD status was determined using color retinal images and treatment records. Australian participants in ASPREE aged 70 years and older without dementia, independence-limiting physical disability, cardiovascular disease, or chronic illness limiting 5-year survival and with gradable retinal images at baseline were included. Data were analyzed from December 2022 to December 2023. Interventions Aspirin (100 mg daily, enteric coated) or placebo. Main Outcomes and Measures Incidence of AMD and progression from early/intermediate to late AMD. Outcomes were analyzed by modified intention-to-treat analysis. Results A total of 4993 participants were enrolled in this substudy. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. At the time of sponsor-determined trial termination, retinal follow-up data were available for 3208 participants, 3171 of whom were analyzed for AMD incidence and progression, with a median (IQR) age of 73.5 (71.5-76.4) years and even sex distribution (1619 [51%] female). Median (IQR) follow-up time was 3.1 (3.0-3.5) years. Cumulative AMD incidence was 195 of 1004 (19.4%) in the aspirin group and 187 of 979 (19.1%) in the placebo group (relative risk [RR], 1.02; 95% CI, 0.85-1.22; P = .86). Cumulative progression from early/intermediate AMD to late AMD was observed in 14 of 615 (2.3%) participants in the aspirin group and 18 of 573 (3.1%) in the placebo group (RR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.36-1.44; P = .36). Conclusions and Relevance In this trial, low-dose aspirin administered for 3 years did not affect the incidence of AMD. The evidence was weaker for progression of AMD due to low number of progressed cases. Overall, these results do not support suggestion that low-dose daily aspirin prevents the development or progression of AMD. Trial Registration anzctr.org Identifier: ACTRN12613000755730.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liubov D. Robman
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rory Wolfe
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robyn L. Woods
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Le Thi Phuong Thao
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Galina A. Makeyeva
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lauren A. B. Hodgson
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Y-Anh Lepham
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kim Jachno
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - James Phung
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emily Maguire
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Henry Luong
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ruth E. Trevaks
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephanie A. Ward
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Now with the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sharyn M. Fitzgerald
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suzanne G. Orchard
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Lacaze
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elsdon Storey
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Walter P. Abhayaratna
- Cardiovascular Medicine, College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, Australian National University, Canberra Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Mark R. Nelson
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Robyn H. Guymer
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - John J. McNeil
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Mai J, Lachinov D, Reiter GS, Riedl S, Grechenig C, Bogunovic H, Schmidt-Erfurth U. Deep Learning-Based Prediction of Individual Geographic Atrophy Progression from a Single Baseline OCT. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2024; 4:100466. [PMID: 38591046 PMCID: PMC11000109 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2024.100466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Objective To identify the individual progression of geographic atrophy (GA) lesions from baseline OCT images of patients in routine clinical care. Design Clinical evaluation of a deep learning-based algorithm. Subjects One hundred eighty-four eyes of 100 consecutively enrolled patients. Methods OCT and fundus autofluorescence (FAF) images (both Spectralis, Heidelberg Engineering) of patients with GA secondary to age-related macular degeneration in routine clinical care were used for model validation. Fundus autofluorescence images were annotated manually by delineating the GA area by certified readers of the Vienna Reading Center. The annotated FAF images were anatomically registered in an automated manner to the corresponding OCT scans, resulting in 2-dimensional en face OCT annotations, which were taken as a reference for the model performance. A deep learning-based method for modeling the GA lesion growth over time from a single baseline OCT was evaluated. In addition, the ability of the algorithm to identify fast progressors for the top 10%, 15%, and 20% of GA growth rates was analyzed. Main Outcome Measures Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and mean absolute error (MAE) between manual and predicted GA growth. Results The deep learning-based tool was able to reliably identify disease activity in GA using a standard OCT image taken at a single baseline time point. The mean DSC for the total GA region increased for the first 2 years of prediction (0.80-0.82). With increasing time intervals beyond 3 years, the DSC decreased slightly to a mean of 0.70. The MAE was low over the first year and with advancing time slowly increased, with mean values ranging from 0.25 mm to 0.69 mm for the total GA region prediction. The model achieved an area under the curve of 0.81, 0.79, and 0.77 for the identification of the top 10%, 15%, and 20% growth rates, respectively. Conclusions The proposed algorithm is capable of fully automated GA lesion growth prediction from a single baseline OCT in a time-continuous fashion in the form of en face maps. The results are a promising step toward clinical decision support tools for therapeutic dosing and guidance of patient management because the first treatment for GA has recently become available. Financial Disclosures Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Mai
- OPTIMA - Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dmitrii Lachinov
- OPTIMA - Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor S. Reiter
- OPTIMA - Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sophie Riedl
- OPTIMA - Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Grechenig
- OPTIMA - Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hrvoje Bogunovic
- OPTIMA - Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ursula Schmidt-Erfurth
- OPTIMA - Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Borchert GA, Shamsnajafabadi H, Ng BWJ, Xue K, De Silva SR, Downes SM, MacLaren RE, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J. Age-related macular degeneration: suitability of optogenetic therapy for geographic atrophy. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1415575. [PMID: 39010943 PMCID: PMC11246919 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1415575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a growing public health concern given the aging population and it is the leading cause of blindness in developed countries, affecting individuals over the age of 55 years. AMD affects the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Bruch's membrane in the macula, leading to secondary photoreceptor degeneration and eventual loss of central vision. Late AMD is divided into two forms: neovascular AMD and geographic atrophy (GA). GA accounts for around 60% of late AMD and has been the most challenging subtype to treat. Recent advances include approval of new intravitreally administered therapeutics, pegcetacoplan (Syfovre) and avacincaptad pegol (Iveric Bio), which target complement factors C3 and C5, respectively, which slow down the rate of enlargement of the area of atrophy. However, there is currently no treatment to reverse the central vision loss associated with GA. Optogenetics may provide a strategy for rescuing visual function in GA by imparting light-sensitivity to the surviving inner retina (i.e., retinal ganglion cells or bipolar cells). It takes advantage of residual inner retinal architecture to transmit visual stimuli along the visual pathway, while a wide range of photosensitive proteins are available for consideration. Herein, we review the anatomical changes in GA, discuss the suitability of optogenetic therapeutic sensors in different target cells in pre-clinical models, and consider the advantages and disadvantages of different routes of administration of therapeutic vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace A. Borchert
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Hoda Shamsnajafabadi
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin W. J. Ng
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kanmin Xue
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha R. De Silva
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Susan M. Downes
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Riedl S, Schmidt-Erfurth U, Rivail A, Birner K, Mai J, Vogl WD, Wu Z, Guymer RH, Bogunović H, Reiter GS. Sequence of Morphological Changes Preceding Atrophy in Intermediate AMD Using Deep Learning. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:30. [PMID: 39028907 PMCID: PMC11262471 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.8.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Investigating the sequence of morphological changes preceding outer plexiform layer (OPL) subsidence, a marker preceding geographic atrophy, in intermediate AMD (iAMD) using high-precision artificial intelligence (AI) quantifications on optical coherence tomography imaging. Methods In this longitudinal observational study, individuals with bilateral iAMD participating in a multicenter clinical trial were screened for OPL subsidence and RPE and outer retinal atrophy. OPL subsidence was segmented on an A-scan basis in optical coherence tomography volumes, obtained 6-monthly with 36 months follow-up. AI-based quantification of photoreceptor (PR) and outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness, drusen height and choroidal hypertransmission (HT) was performed. Changes were compared between topographic areas of OPL subsidence (AS), drusen (AD), and reference (AR). Results Of 280 eyes of 140 individuals, OPL subsidence occurred in 53 eyes from 43 individuals. Thirty-six eyes developed RPE and outer retinal atrophy subsequently. In the cohort of 53 eyes showing OPL subsidence, PR and ONL thicknesses were significantly decreased in AS compared with AD and AR 12 and 18 months before OPL subsidence occurred, respectively (PR: 20 µm vs. 23 µm and 27 µm [P < 0.009]; ONL, 84 µm vs. 94 µm and 98 µm [P < 0.008]). Accelerated thinning of PR (0.6 µm/month; P < 0.001) and ONL (0.8 µm/month; P < 0.001) was observed in AS compared with AD and AR. Concomitant drusen regression and hypertransmission increase at the occurrence of OPL subsidence underline the atrophic progress in areas affected by OPL subsidence. Conclusions PR and ONL thinning are early subclinical features associated with subsequent OPL subsidence, an indicator of progression toward geographic atrophy. AI algorithms are able to predict and quantify morphological precursors of iAMD conversion and allow personalized risk stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Riedl
- Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ursula Schmidt-Erfurth
- Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Antoine Rivail
- Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Klaudia Birner
- Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Mai
- Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolf-Dieter Vogl
- Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- RetInSight, Vienna, Austria
| | - Zhichao Wu
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Robyn H. Guymer
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hrvoje Bogunović
- Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor S. Reiter
- Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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10
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Csaky KG, Miller JML, Martin DF, Johnson MW. Drug Approval for the Treatment of Geographic Atrophy: How We Got Here and Where We Need to Go. Am J Ophthalmol 2024; 263:231-239. [PMID: 38387826 PMCID: PMC11162935 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2024.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To discuss the clinical trial results leading to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of anti-complement therapies for geographic atrophy (GA), perspectives on functional data from the GA clinical trials, and how lessons from the FDA approval may guide future directions for basic and clinical research in AMD. DESIGN Selected literature review with analysis and perspective METHODS: We performed a targeted review of publicly available data from the clinical trials of pegcetacoplan and avacincaptad for the treatment of GA, as well as scientific literature on the natural history of GA and the genetics and basic science of complement in AMD. RESULTS The approval of pegcetacoplan and avacincaptad was based on an anatomic endpoint of a reduction in the rate of GA expansion over time. However, functional data from 2 phase 3 clinical trials for each drug demonstrated no visual benefit to patients in the treatment groups. Review of the genetics of AMD and the basic science of the role for complement in AMD provides only modest support for targeting complement as treatment for GA expansion, and alternative molecular targets for GA treatment are therefore discussed. Reasons for the disconnect between anatomic and functional outcomes in the clinical trials of anti-complement therapies are discussed, providing insight to guide the configuration of future clinical studies for GA. CONCLUSION Although avacincaptad and pegcetacoplan are our first FDA-approved treatments for GA, results from the clinical trials failed to show any functional improvement after 1 and 2 years, respectively, calling into question whether the drugs represent a "clinically relevant outcome." To improve the chances of more impactful therapies in the future, we provide basic-science rationale for pursuing non-complement targets; emphasize the importance of ongoing clinical research that more closely pins anatomic features of GA to functional outcomes; and provide suggestions for clinical endpoints for future clinical trials on GA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl G Csaky
- From the Retina Foundation of the Southwest (K.G.C.), Dallas, Texas, USA.
| | - Jason M L Miller
- Kellogg Eye Center (J.M.L.M., M.W.J.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Cellular and Molecular Biology Program (J.M.L.M.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Daniel F Martin
- Cole Eye Institute (D.F.M.), Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Ohio, USA
| | - Mark W Johnson
- Kellogg Eye Center (J.M.L.M., M.W.J.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Jiménez-Loygorri JI, Viedma-Poyatos Á, Gómez-Sintes R, Boya P. Urolithin A promotes p62-dependent lysophagy to prevent acute retinal neurodegeneration. Mol Neurodegener 2024; 19:49. [PMID: 38890703 PMCID: PMC11186080 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-024-00739-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in elderly people in the developed world, and the number of people affected is expected to almost double by 2040. The retina presents one of the highest metabolic demands in our bodies that is partially or fully fulfilled by mitochondria in the neuroretina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), respectively. Together with its post-mitotic status and constant photooxidative damage from incoming light, the retina requires a tightly-regulated housekeeping system that involves autophagy. The natural polyphenol Urolithin A (UA) has shown neuroprotective benefits in several models of aging and age-associated disorders, mostly attributed to its ability to induce mitophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis. Sodium iodate (SI) administration recapitulates the late stages of AMD, including geographic atrophy and photoreceptor cell death. METHODS A combination of in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo models were used to test the neuroprotective potential of UA in the SI model. Functional assays (OCT, ERGs), cellular analysis (flow cytometry, qPCR) and fine confocal microscopy (immunohistochemistry, tandem selective autophagy reporters) helped address this question. RESULTS UA alleviated neurodegeneration and preserved visual function in SI-treated mice. Simultaneously, we observed severe proteostasis defects upon SI damage induction, including autophagosome accumulation, that were resolved in animals that received UA. Treatment with UA restored autophagic flux and triggered PINK1/Parkin-dependent mitophagy, as previously reported in the literature. Autophagy blockage caused by SI was caused by severe lysosomal membrane permeabilization. While UA did not induce lysosomal biogenesis, it did restore upcycling of permeabilized lysosomes through lysophagy. Knockdown of the lysophagy adaptor SQSTM1/p62 abrogated viability rescue by UA in SI-treated cells, exacerbated lysosomal defects and inhibited lysophagy. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, these data highlight a novel putative application of UA in the treatment of AMD whereby it bypasses lysosomal defects by promoting p62-dependent lysophagy to sustain proteostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Ignacio Jiménez-Loygorri
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Álvaro Viedma-Poyatos
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel Gómez-Sintes
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Boya
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain.
- Department of Neuroscience and Movement Science, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland.
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Wheeler S, Mahmoudzadeh R, Randolph J. Treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration: where we stand in 2024. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2024:00055735-990000000-00176. [PMID: 38869976 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000001064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review highlights treatment options, both under investigation and currently available, for the treatment of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). An update on current clinical studies for dry AMD has been summarized. RECENT FINDINGS Advanced dry AMD, characterized by geographic atrophy (GA), is a leading cause of blindness in the developed world, though prior to 2023 there was no approved treatment. There are now two approved treatments in the United States for GA. Additionally, there are several studies and trials to investigate therapeutic potential and effects of therapies for earlier intervention in dry AMD. Approaches to therapy include inhibiting the complement system, utilizing gene therapy, stem cell therapy, laser therapy, and surgical implants. SUMMARY While there has been notable prior advancement in the treatment for neovascular or wet AMD, for the first time there are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved treatments for GA. Clinical studies have shown promise for additional methods for managing dry AMD both medically and surgically.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raziyeh Mahmoudzadeh
- Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Ophthalmology, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Jessica Randolph
- Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Ophthalmology, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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13
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Ong J, Zarnegar A, Selvam A, Driban M, Chhablani J. The Complement System as a Therapeutic Target in Retinal Disease. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:945. [PMID: 38929562 PMCID: PMC11205777 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60060945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The complement cascade is a vital system in the human body's defense against pathogens. During the natural aging process, it has been observed that this system is imperative for ensuring the integrity and homeostasis of the retina. While this system is critical for proper host defense and retinal integrity, it has also been found that dysregulation of this system may lead to certain retinal pathologies, including geographic atrophy and diabetic retinopathy. Targeting components of the complement system for retinal diseases has been an area of interest, and in vivo, ex vivo, and clinical trials have been conducted in this area. Following clinical trials, medications targeting the complement system for retinal disease have also become available. In this manuscript, we discuss the pathophysiology of complement dysfunction in the retina and specific pathologies. We then describe the results of cellular, animal, and clinical studies targeting the complement system for retinal diseases. We then provide an overview of complement inhibitors that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for geographic atrophy. The complement system in retinal diseases continues to serve as an emerging therapeutic target, and further research in this field will provide additional insights into the mechanisms and considerations for treatment of retinal pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Ong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Arman Zarnegar
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Amrish Selvam
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Matthew Driban
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jay Chhablani
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Zhang C, Kahan E, Begaj T, Friedman SM, Deobhakta A, Heyang M, Shen LL, Moshfeghi D, Wai K, Parikh R. Geographic Atrophy Natural History Versus Treatment: Time to Fovea. Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38917392 DOI: 10.3928/23258160-20240418-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The Food and Drug Administration recently approved treatments of geographic atrophy (GA). Our study aims to quantify the time for a lesion to reach the central fovea based on reduction of GA growth rates from therapeutics compared to the natural history. PATIENTS AND METHODS A previously published study calculates local border expansion rate of GA lesions at varying retinal eccentricities. In this study, we use these rates to model GA expansion toward the fovea and the effects of treatments that reduce growth in GA area by 15% to 45% on lesions of varying sizes with posterior margin 250, 500, 750, 1000, 1250, 1500, and 3000 µm from the fovea. RESULTS Lesions with an area 8 mm2 and posterior edge 500 µm from the fovea will reach the fovea in 5.08 years with no treatment, but the same lesions will reach the fovea in 5.85, 6.52, 7.36, and 8.46 years with a treatment that reduces growth in GA area by 15%, 25%, 35%, and 45%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Distance of the posterior edge of the lesion was the primary factor in GA growth toward the fovea, and lesion size only minimally affects growth rates of GA. Based on the efficacy of current and future therapeutics and distance of GA to the fovea, our study provides the marginal time benefit of treatment to guide patients and clinicians, placing both the natural history of GA and the effects of current and future treatments into clinical context. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2024;55:XX-XX.].
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15
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Rowe LW, Ciulla TA. Gene Therapy for Non-Hereditary Retinal Disease: Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, and Beyond. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:720. [PMID: 38927656 PMCID: PMC11203163 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy holds promise as a transformative approach in the treatment landscape of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy (DR), and diabetic macular edema (DME), aiming to address the challenges of frequent intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections. This manuscript reviews ongoing gene therapy clinical trials for these disorders, including ABBV-RGX-314, ixoberogene soroparvovec (ixo-vec), and 4D-150. ABBV-RGX-314 utilizes an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector to deliver a transgene encoding a ranibizumab-like anti-VEGF antibody fragment, demonstrating promising results in Phase 1/2a and ongoing Phase 2b/3 trials. Ixo-vec employs an AAV2.7m8 capsid for intravitreal delivery of a transgene expressing aflibercept, showing encouraging outcomes in Phase 1 and ongoing Phase 2 trials. 4D-150 utilizes an evolved vector to express both aflibercept and a VEGF-C inhibitory RNAi, exhibiting positive interim results in Phase 1/2 studies. Other therapies reviewed include EXG102-031, FT-003, KH631, OLX10212, JNJ-1887, 4D-175, and OCU410. These therapies offer potential advantages of reduced treatment frequency and enhanced safety profiles, representing a paradigm shift in management towards durable and efficacious cellular-based biofactories. These advancements in gene therapy hold promise for improving outcomes in AMD and addressing the complex challenges of DME and DR, providing new avenues for the treatment of diabetic eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas W. Rowe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Thomas A. Ciulla
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
- Retina Service, Midwest Eye Institute, Indianapolis, IN 46290, USA
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16
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Schmidt-Erfurth U, Riedl S. [Complement inhibition treatment for geographic atrophy (GA): functional and morphological efficacy and relevant biomarkers in clinical practice]. DIE OPHTHALMOLOGIE 2024; 121:476-481. [PMID: 38691156 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-024-02039-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
The approval of complement inhibitory therapeutic agents for the treatment of geographic atrophy (GA) has highlighted the need for reliable and reproducible measurement of disease progression and therapeutic efficacy. Due to its availability and imaging characteristics optical coherence tomography (OCT) is the method of choice. Using OCT analysis based on artificial intelligence (AI), the therapeutic efficacy of pegcetacoplan was demonstrated at the levels of both the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors (PR). Cloud-based solutions that enable monitoring of GA are already available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Schmidt-Erfurth
- Medizinische Universität Wien, Universitätsklinik für Augenheilkunde und Optometrie, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich.
| | - Sophie Riedl
- Medizinische Universität Wien, Universitätsklinik für Augenheilkunde und Optometrie, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
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Vessey KA, Jobling AI, Greferath U, Fletcher EL. Pharmaceutical therapies targeting autophagy for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 76:102463. [PMID: 38788268 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of irreversible vision loss in the elderly. Although new therapies have recently emerged, there are currently no ways of preventing the development of the disease. Changes in intracellular recycling processes. Changes in intracellular recycling processes, called autophagy, lead to debris accumulation and cellular dysfunction in AMD models and AMD patients. Drugs that enhance autophagy hold promise as therapies for slowing AMD progression in preclinical models; however, more studies in humans are required. While a definitive cure for AMD will likely hinge on a personalized medicine approach, treatments that enhance autophagy hold promise for slowing vision loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstan A Vessey
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; School of Science and Technology, The University of New England, NSW 2350, Australia
| | - Andrew I Jobling
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Ursula Greferath
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Erica L Fletcher
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
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18
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DeBoer CMT, Rasmussen DK, Franco JA, Mahajan VB. Emerging Oral Pharmaceuticals for Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Mechanism of Action, Current Clinical Status, and Future Directions. Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38917394 DOI: 10.3928/23258160-20240430-02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has been historically managed with lifestyle modifications, monitoring for conversion to wet AMD, and vitamins. Recently there has been a flurry of research focused on discovering new targets to prevent worsening of dry AMD. In 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the first two intravitreal complement inhibitors to slow the rate of geographic atrophy progression. However, serial intravitreal injections for a chronic progressive disease are burdensome for patients and have procedural risks. Therefore, there is significant research to discover novel oral medications to manage dry AMD. Several oral medications are currently in phase 2 and 3 clinical trials for dry AMD, whereas others have had recent readouts on their clinical trials and efficacy. The purpose of this review is to describe the therapeutic pathways currently being investigated and to provide an update on the clinical status of novel oral medications for the management of dry AMD. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2024;55:XX-XX.].
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Arrigo A, Aragona E, Allamprese M, Battaglia Parodi M. Ophthalmologists' awareness of geographic atrophy: An Italian survey including 365 participants. Eur J Ophthalmol 2024:11206721241258428. [PMID: 38809658 DOI: 10.1177/11206721241258428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Geographic atrophy (GA) is a severe complication of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and leads to irreversible visual decline. To date, no effective treatment is available for GA patients. However, a number of new therapies have recently been approved and several others are in the pipeline. This rapid evolution of prospects for GA patients requires constant updating of ophthalmologists' understanding of GA and its management so as to provide the appropriate treatment. For this reason, Società Italiana di Scienze Oftalmologiche (S.I.S.O.) has designed a specific survey to gauge the position of Italian ophthalmologists in this regard. METHODS The three hundred and sixty-five Italian ophthalmologists who agreed to take part received a seventeen-part questionnaire guaranteeing privacy and anonymity. The survey was compiled through an online portal and the results were sent directly to S.I.S.O. ETS. Two graders analyzed the data and recorded the results. RESULTS The results showed a high level of self-assessed awareness and understanding of GA, as well as considerable willingness to further improve knowledge of the disease. Most of the participants claimed to have effective rules of conduct in place for managing GA patients, including prompt response, involving a high prevalence of nutraceutical prescriptions and lifestyle recommendations. CONCLUSIONS This survey provided an overview of how GA patients are managed in Italy. The Italian ophthalmology community appears to be ready to adopt the upcoming treatments for GA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Arrigo
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Aragona
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Battaglia Parodi
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
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Vujosevic S, Loewenstein A, O'Toole L, Schmidt-Erfurth UM, Zur D, Chakravarthy U. Imaging geographic atrophy: integrating structure and function to better understand the effects of new treatments. Br J Ophthalmol 2024; 108:773-778. [PMID: 38290804 DOI: 10.1136/bjo-2023-324246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Geographic atrophy (GA) is an advanced and irreversible form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Chronic low grade inflammation is thought to act as an initiator of this degenerative process, resulting in loss of photoreceptors (PRs), retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the underlying choriocapillaris. This review examined the challenges of clinical trials to date which have sought to treat GA, with particular reference to the successful outcome of C3 complement inhibition. Currently, optical coherence tomography (OCT) seems to be the most suitable method to detect GA and monitor the effect of treatment. In addition, the merits of using novel anatomical endpoints in detecting GA expansion are discussed. Although best-corrected visual acuity is commonly used to monitor disease in GA, other tests to determine visual function are explored. Although not widely available, microperimetry enables quantification of retinal sensitivity (RS) and macular fixation behaviour related to fundus characteristics. There is a spatial correlation between OCT/fundus autofluorescence evaluation of PR damage outside the area of RPE loss and RS on microperimetry, showing important associations with visual function. Standardisation of testing by microperimetry is necessary to enable this modality to detect AMD progression. Artificial intelligence (AI) analysis has shown PR layers integrity precedes and exceeds GA loss. Loss of the ellipsoid zone has been recognised as a primary outcome parameter in therapeutic trials for GA. The integrity of the PR layers imaged by OCT at baseline has been shown to be an important prognostic indicator. AI has the potential to be invaluable in personalising care and justifying treatment intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stela Vujosevic
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Eye Clinic, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Anat Loewenstein
- Ophthalmology Division, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | | | - Dinah Zur
- Ophthalmology Division, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Patel NA, Hoyek S, Al-Khersan H, Yannuzzi NA, Smiddy WE. A Cost Effectiveness Analysis of Avacincaptad Pegol for the Treatment of Geographic Atrophy with Comparison to Pegcetacoplan. Ophthalmol Retina 2024:S2468-6530(24)00238-0. [PMID: 38777140 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2024.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cost effectiveness of the treatment of geographic atrophy (GA) with intravitreal avacincaptad pegol (ACP) and to compare it with pegcetacoplan (PEG). DESIGN Cost analysis based on data from published studies. SUBJECTS None; based on data from published sham control compared with 2 treatment groups in each of the index studies. METHODS Costs were based on 2022 Medicare reimbursement data for both facility (hospital-based) and nonfacility settings in Miami. Specific usage and outcomes were derived from the GATHER2 study as well as DERBY and OAKS trials. For ACP, all patients were treated every month (EM) in year 1 then randomized to every other month (EOM) or EM in year 2. Two-year models were created for patients in the facility setting for extrafoveal (ACP and PEG) and all patients (PEG). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Cost, cost utility, and cost per area of GA (in United States dollars). RESULTS The cost to treat GA with ACP in EM and EOM treatment groups over the 2 years as reported was $67 400 and $40 600, respectively. With ACP treatment over 2 years, the daily cost of delaying GA 3.4 months (EM) and 4.5 months (EOM) was $649 (EM) and $356 (EOM). The (facility-based) costs per unit area of retinal pigment epithelium saved for patients with extrafoveal GA over the 2-year period were $119 000/mm2 (EM ACP) versus $54 000/mm2 (EM PEG) (P < 0.001), $57 100/mm2 (EOM ACP) versus $31 400/mm2 (EOM PEG) (P < 0.001), and $45 300/mm2 (hypothetical EOM from outset ACP). CONCLUSION Treatment of GA with intravitreal ACP EOM was more cost effective than EM. When assessing extrafoveal lesions, ACP was less cost effective than PEG for both EM and EOM treatment. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimesh A Patel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Sandra Hoyek
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hasenin Al-Khersan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Nicolas A Yannuzzi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - William E Smiddy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida.
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Danzig CJ, Khanani AM, Kaiser PK, Chang MA, Kovach JL, Lally DR, Rachitskaya A, Sheth VS, Vajzovic L, Clark J, Tang J, Zhu L, Desai D, Chakravarthy U. Vision Loss Reduction with Avacincaptad Pegol for Geographic Atrophy: A 12-Month Post Hoc Analysis of the GATHER1 and GATHER2 Trials. Ophthalmol Retina 2024:S2468-6530(24)00224-0. [PMID: 38719191 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2024.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the impact of reduction in geographic atrophy (GA) lesion growth on visual acuity in the GATHER trials using categorical outcome measures. DESIGN Randomized, double-masked, sham-controlled phase 3 trials. PARTICIPANTS Aged ≥50 years with noncenter point-involving GA and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 25 to 80 ETDRS letters in the study eye. METHODS GATHER1 consisted of 2 parts. In part 1, 77 patients were randomized 1:1:1 to avacincaptad pegol (ACP) 1 mg, ACP 2 mg, and sham. In part 2, 209 patients were randomized 1:2:2 to ACP 2 mg, ACP 4 mg, and sham. In GATHER2, patients were randomized 1:1 to ACP 2 mg (n = 225) and sham (n = 223). A post hoc analysis of 12-month data for pooled ACP 2 mg and sham groups is reported. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Proportion of study eyes that experienced ≥10-, ≥15-, or ≥20-BCVA ETDRS letter loss from baseline to month 12; time-to-event analysis of persistent vision loss of ≥10, ≥15, or≥ 20 BCVA letters from baseline at ≥2 consecutive visits over 12 months; proportion of study eyes with BCVA loss to a level below driving eligibility threshold at month 12 among those eligible to drive at baseline. RESULTS Lower proportions of study eyes experienced ≥10-, ≥15-, or ≥20-BCVA letter loss from baseline over 12 months with ACP 2 mg (11.6%, 4.0%, and 1.6%, respectively) versus sham (14.1%, 7.6%, and 4.5%, respectively). There was a reduction in the risk of persistent loss of ≥15 BCVA ETDRS letters with ACP 2 mg (3.4%) versus sham (7.8%) through 12 months. A lower proportion of study eyes treated with ACP 2 mg reached the threshold for driving ineligibility versus sham by 12 months. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with ACP 2 mg delayed the risk of progression to persistent vision loss (i.e., ≥10-, ≥15-, and ≥20-BCVA letter loss or BCVA loss to a level below driving eligibility threshold) versus sham over 12 months. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl J Danzig
- Rand Eye Institute, Deerfield Beach, Florida; Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt School of Medicine, Boca Raton, Florida
| | - Arshad M Khanani
- Sierra Eye Associates, Reno, Nevada; University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada
| | | | | | - Jaclyn L Kovach
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - David R Lally
- New England Retina Consultants, Springfield, Massachusetts
| | | | | | | | - Julie Clark
- Iveric Bio, an Astellas Company, Parsippany, New Jersey
| | - Justin Tang
- Iveric Bio, an Astellas Company, Parsippany, New Jersey
| | - Liansheng Zhu
- Iveric Bio, an Astellas Company, Parsippany, New Jersey
| | - Dhaval Desai
- Iveric Bio, an Astellas Company, Parsippany, New Jersey
| | - Usha Chakravarthy
- Queen's University of Belfast, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, United Kingdom.
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Taibi T, Cheon S, Perna F, Vu LP. mRNA-based therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment. Mol Ther 2024:S1525-0016(24)00299-5. [PMID: 38702886 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In the rapidly evolving landscape of medical research, the emergence of RNA-based therapeutics is paradigm shifting. It is mainly driven by the molecular adaptability and capacity to provide precision in targeting. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic crisis underscored the effectiveness of the mRNA therapeutic development platform and brought it to the forefront of RNA-based interventions. These RNA-based therapeutic approaches can reshape gene expression, manipulate cellular functions, and correct the aberrant molecular processes underlying various diseases. The new technologies hold the potential to engineer and deliver tailored therapeutic agents to tackle genetic disorders, cancers, and infectious diseases in a highly personalized and precisely tuned manner. The review discusses the most recent advancements in the field of mRNA therapeutics for cancer treatment, with a focus on the features of the most utilized RNA-based therapeutic interventions, current pre-clinical and clinical developments, and the remaining challenges in delivery strategies, effectiveness, and safety considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilelli Taibi
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Interdisciplinary Oncology Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sehyun Cheon
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Fabiana Perna
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Ly P Vu
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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24
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Shakeel L, Khan A, Akilimali A. "Izervay (avacincaptad pegol): paving the way for vision preservation in geographic atrophy". Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:2413-2416. [PMID: 38694318 PMCID: PMC11060312 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000002021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive retinal disease that primarily affects the macula, leading to central vision loss and impaired color vision. Among its most severe forms is geographic atrophy (GA), which results in irreversible central blindness. While numerous risk factors, including age, smoking, and genetics, contribute to the development of AMD, effective treatment options for GA have been limited. This article centers on Izervay [avacincaptad pegol (ACP)], an FDA-approved drug designed to address the unmet medical needs of patients with GA secondary to AMD. The pathophysiology of GA involves oxidative damage, chronic inflammation, and cell death, primarily due to complement system dysregulation. Previous treatments for GA have shown limited efficacy, leaving patients searching for more effective solutions. Izervay, with its unique mechanism of action, inhibits complement protein C5, disrupting the formation of the membrane attack complex and slowing retinal cell degeneration. Clinical trials have demonstrated Izervay's ability to significantly reduce the growth of GA lesions, offering hope for improved outcomes. Additionally, the drug has exhibited a tolerable safety profile, with common side effects including conjunctival hemorrhage and increased intraocular pressure. Izervay represents a breakthrough in AMD treatment, offering the potential to preserve vision in those at risk of irreversible vision loss due to GA. While further research is necessary to evaluate long-term efficacy and accessibility, its approval opens new possibilities in AMD management, transforming the lives of individuals affected by this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laiba Shakeel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Afsheen Khan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Aymar Akilimali
- Department of Research, Medical Research Circle (MedReC), Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
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25
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Wilke GA, Apte RS. Complement regulation in the eye: implications for age-related macular degeneration. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e178296. [PMID: 38690727 PMCID: PMC11060743 DOI: 10.1172/jci178296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Careful regulation of the complement system is critical for enabling complement proteins to titrate immune defense while also preventing collateral tissue damage from poorly controlled inflammation. In the eye, this balance between complement activity and inhibition is crucial, as a low level of basal complement activity is necessary to support ocular immune privilege, a prerequisite for maintaining vision. Dysregulated complement activation contributes to parainflammation, a low level of inflammation triggered by cellular damage that functions to reestablish homeostasis, or outright inflammation that disrupts the visual axis. Complement dysregulation has been implicated in many ocular diseases, including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In the last two decades, complement activity has been the focus of intense investigation in AMD pathogenesis, leading to the development of novel therapeutics for the treatment of atrophic AMD. This Review outlines recent advances and challenges, highlighting therapeutic approaches that have advanced to clinical trials, as well as providing a general overview of the complement system in the posterior segment of the eye and selected ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia A. Wilke
- John F. Hardesty, MD, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
| | - Rajendra S. Apte
- John F. Hardesty, MD, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
- Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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26
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Shen LL, Keenan JD, Chahal N, Taha AT, Saroya J, Ma CJ, Sun M, Yang D, Psaras C, Callander J, Flaxel C, Fawzi AA, Schlesinger TK, Wong RW, Bryan Leung LS, Eaton AM, Steinle NC, Telander DG, Afshar AR, Neuwelt MD, Lim JI, Yiu GC, Stewart JM. METformin for the MINimization of Geographic Atrophy Progression (METforMIN): A Randomized Trial. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2024; 4:100440. [PMID: 38284098 PMCID: PMC10810745 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2023.100440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Purpose Metformin use has been associated with a decreased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) progression in observational studies. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of oral metformin for slowing geographic atrophy (GA) progression. Design Parallel-group, multicenter, randomized phase II clinical trial. Participants Participants aged ≥ 55 years without diabetes who had GA from atrophic AMD in ≥ 1 eye. Methods We enrolled participants across 12 clinical centers and randomized participants in a 1:1 ratio to receive oral metformin (2000 mg daily) or observation for 18 months. Fundus autofluorescence imaging was obtained at baseline and every 6 months. Main Outcome Measures The primary efficacy endpoint was the annualized enlargement rate of the square root-transformed GA area. Secondary endpoints included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and low luminance visual acuity (LLVA) at each visit. Results Of 66 enrolled participants, 34 (57 eyes) were randomized to the observation group and 32 (53 eyes) were randomized to the treatment group. The median follow-up duration was 13.9 and 12.6 months in the observation and metformin groups, respectively. The mean ± standard error annualized enlargement rate of square root transformed GA area was 0.35 ± 0.04 mm/year in the observation group and 0.42 ± 0.04 mm/year in the treatment group (risk difference = 0.07 mm/year, 95% confidence interval = -0.05 to 0.18 mm/year; P = 0.26). The mean ± standard error decline in BCVA was 4.8 ± 1.7 letters/year in the observation group and 3.4 ± 1.1 letters/year in the treatment group (P = 0.56). The mean ± standard error decline in LLVA was 7.3 ± 2.5 letters/year in the observation group and 0.8 ± 2.2 letters/year in the treatment group (P = 0.06). Fourteen participants in the metformin group experienced nonserious adverse events related to metformin, with gastrointestinal side effects as the most common. No serious adverse events were attributed to metformin. Conclusions The results of this trial as conducted do not support oral metformin having effects on reducing the progression of GA. Additional placebo-controlled trials are needed to explore the role of metformin for AMD, especially for earlier stages of the disease. Financial Disclosures Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangbo Linus Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jeremy D Keenan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation for Research in Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Noor Chahal
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Abu Tahir Taha
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jasmeet Saroya
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Chu Jian Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Mengyuan Sun
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Gladstone Institute, San Francisco, California
| | - Daphne Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Catherine Psaras
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jacquelyn Callander
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Christina Flaxel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Amani A Fawzi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | | | - Loh-Shan Bryan Leung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | | | | | | | - Armin R Afshar
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Melissa D Neuwelt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jennifer I Lim
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Glenn C Yiu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California
| | - Jay M Stewart
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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27
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Vakharia P, Eichenbaum D. Geographic atrophy: current and future therapeutic agents and practical considerations for retinal specialists. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2024; 35:165-169. [PMID: 38421937 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000001046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Geographic atrophy (GA) from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remains a leading cause of vision loss. The purpose of this review is to summarize currently available intravitreal therapeutics, and discuss pipeline therapeutics that are currently in clinical trials. RECENT FINDINGS The FDA approval of pegcetacoplan and avacincaptad pegol, both approved in 2023, represent the first therapeutics to treat GA. These are delivered via intravitreal injections, and have been shown to slow progression of GA. Both drugs have a risk of new onset neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Initial indications seem to be that pegcetacoplan therapy has higher risks of inflammation, vasculitis, and nonarteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) as compared to avacincaptad pegol, but more real-world data will help to clarify this further. Pipeline therapeutics that we discuss include intravitreal gene therapy, oral anticomplement therapy, and intravitreal injections of a novel glycoprotein. SUMMARY Both pegcetacoplan and avacincaptad pegol are FDA approved to treat GA. The decision to treat patients is still complex and nuanced, but the approval of two treatments for GA is a tremendous advance in our field. Future therapeutics may further refine our ability to treat patients more effectively and safely.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Eichenbaum
- Retina Vitreous Associates of Florida, St. Petersburg
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
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28
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Abbasgholizadeh R, Habibi A, Emamverdi M, Ashrafkhorasani M, London N, Sinai MJ, Sinai EC, Sadda SR. Comparison of Blue-Light Autofluorescence and Ultrawidefield Green-Light Autofluorescence for Assessing Geographic Atrophy. Ophthalmol Retina 2024:S2468-6530(24)00192-1. [PMID: 38670262 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2024.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The goal of this study was to evaluate and compare the intermodality and interreader agreement of manual and semiautomated geographic atrophy (GA) area measurements in eyes with GA due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using conventional blue-light fundus autofluorescence (FAF) and ultrawidefield (UWF) green-light FAF systems. DESIGN Prospective Cohort Study. SUBJECTS Seventy-two eyes of 50 patients with a diagnosis of advanced nonneovascular AMD with GA. METHODS Fundus autofluorescence images of eyes with GA were obtained during a single visit using both the Spectralis HRA + OCT2 device and the Optos California device. The area of the GA lesion(s) was segmented and quantified (mm2) with a fully manual approach where the lesions were outlined using Optos Advance and Heidelberg Eye Explorer (HEYEX) software. In addition, for the Heidelberg blue FAF images, GA lesions were also measured using the instrument's semiautomated software (Region Finder 2.6.4). For comparison between modalities/grading method, the mean values of the 2 graders were used. Intraclass correlation coefficients were computed to judge the agreement between graders. RESULTS Seventy-two eyes of 50 patients were included in this study. There was nearly perfect agreement between graders for the measurement of GA area for all 3 modalities (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.996 for manual Optos Advance, 0.996 for manual Heidelberg HEYEX, and 0.995 for Heidelberg Region Finder). The measurement of GA area was strongly correlated between modalities, with Spearman correlation coefficients of 0.985 (P < 0.001) between manual Heidelberg and manual Optos, 0.991 (P < 0.001) for Region Finder versus manual Heidelberg, and 0.985 (P < 0.001) for Region Finder versus manual Optos. The absolute mean area differences between the Heidelberg manual versus Region Finder, manual Optos versus Region Finder, and manual Optos versus manual Heidelberg were 1.61 mm2 (P < 0.001), 0.90 mm2 (P < 0.006), and 0.71 mm2 (P < 0.001), respectively. CONCLUSIONS We observed excellent interreader agreement for measurement of GA using either 30-degree blue-light FAF or UWF green-light FAF, establishing the reliability of UWF imaging for macular GA assessment. Although the absolute measurements between devices were strongly correlated, they differed significantly, highlighting the importance of using the same device for a given patient for the duration of a study. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouzbeh Abbasgholizadeh
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California; Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, California
| | - Abbas Habibi
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California; Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, California
| | - Mehdi Emamverdi
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California; Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, California
| | - Maryam Ashrafkhorasani
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California; Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, California
| | | | - Michael J Sinai
- VP Clinical Development, Optos, PLC, Dunfermline, United Kingdom
| | | | - Srinivas R Sadda
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California; Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, California.
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29
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Berlin A, Fischer NA, Clark ME, Kar D, Swain TA, Martindale RM, McGwin G, Crosson JN, Sloan KR, Owsley C, Curcio CA. Quantitative Autofluorescence at AMD's Beginnings Highlights Retinal Topography and Grading System Differences: ALSTAR2 Baseline. Ophthalmologica 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38599207 DOI: 10.1159/000538696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aims of the study were to describe baseline quantitative (short-wavelength) autofluorescence (qAF) findings in a large pseudophakic cohort at age-related macular degeneration (AMD)'s beginnings and to assess qAF8 as an outcome measure and evaluate Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and Beckman grading systems. METHODS In the ALSTAR2 baseline cohort (NCT04112667), 346 pseudophakic eyes of 188 persons (74.0 ± 5.5 years) were classified as normal (N = 160 by AREDS, 158 by Beckman), early AMD (eAMD) (N = 104, 66), and intermediate AMD (iAMD) (N = 82, 122). Groups were compared via mean qAF intensities in a 6°-8° annulus (qAF8) and maps of differences between observations and the overall mean, divided by standard deviation (Z-score). RESULTS qAF8 did not differ significantly among diagnostic groups by either stratification (p = 0.0869 AREDS; p = 0.0569 by Beckman). Notably, 45 eyes considered eAMD by AREDS became iAMD by Beckman. For AREDS-stratified eyes, Z-score maps showed higher centrally located qAF for normal, near the mean in eAMD, and lower values for iAMD. Maps deviated from this pattern for Beckman-stratified eyes. CONCLUSIONS In a large sample of pseudophakic eyes, qAF8 does not differ overall from normal aging to iAMD but also does not capture the earliest AMD activity in the macula lutea. AREDS classification gives results more consistent with a slow decline in histologic autofluorescence than Beckman classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Berlin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA,
- University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany,
| | - Nathan A Fischer
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Retina Consultants of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Mark E Clark
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Deepayan Kar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Thomas A Swain
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Richard M Martindale
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Retina Consultants of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Gerald McGwin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jason N Crosson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Retina Consultants of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Kenneth R Sloan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Cynthia Owsley
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Christine A Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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30
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Peterson SL, Krishnan A, Patel D, Khanehzar A, Lad A, Shaughnessy J, Ram S, Callanan D, Kunimoto D, Genead MA, Tolentino MJ. PolySialic Acid Nanoparticles Actuate Complement-Factor-H-Mediated Inhibition of the Alternative Complement Pathway: A Safer Potential Therapy for Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:517. [PMID: 38675477 PMCID: PMC11053938 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The alternative pathway of the complement system is implicated in the etiology of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Complement depletion with pegcetacoplan and avacincaptad pegol are FDA-approved treatments for geographic atrophy in AMD that, while effective, have clinically observed risks of choroidal neovascular (CNV) conversion, optic neuritis, and retinal vasculitis, leaving room for other equally efficacious but safer therapeutics, including Poly Sialic acid (PSA) nanoparticle (PolySia-NP)-actuated complement factor H (CFH) alternative pathway inhibition. Our previous paper demonstrated that PolySia-NP inhibits pro-inflammatory polarization and cytokine release. Here, we extend these findings by investigating the therapeutic potential of PolySia-NP to attenuate the alternative complement pathway. First, we show that PolySia-NP binds CFH and enhances affinity to C3b. Next, we demonstrate that PolySia-NP treatment of human serum suppresses alternative pathway hemolytic activity and C3b deposition. Further, we show that treating human macrophages with PolySia-NP is non-toxic and reduces markers of complement activity. Finally, we describe PolySia-NP-treatment-induced decreases in neovascularization and inflammatory response in a laser-induced CNV mouse model of neovascular AMD. In conclusion, PolySia-NP suppresses alternative pathway complement activity in human serum, human macrophage, and mouse CNV without increasing neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheri L. Peterson
- Aviceda Therapeutics Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (A.L.); (D.C.); (D.K.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Anitha Krishnan
- Aviceda Therapeutics Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (A.L.); (D.C.); (D.K.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Diyan Patel
- Aviceda Therapeutics Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (A.L.); (D.C.); (D.K.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Ali Khanehzar
- Aviceda Therapeutics Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (A.L.); (D.C.); (D.K.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Amit Lad
- Aviceda Therapeutics Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (A.L.); (D.C.); (D.K.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Jutamas Shaughnessy
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA; (J.S.); (S.R.)
| | - Sanjay Ram
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA; (J.S.); (S.R.)
| | - David Callanan
- Aviceda Therapeutics Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (A.L.); (D.C.); (D.K.); (M.A.G.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Derek Kunimoto
- Aviceda Therapeutics Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (A.L.); (D.C.); (D.K.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Mohamed A. Genead
- Aviceda Therapeutics Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (A.L.); (D.C.); (D.K.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Michael J. Tolentino
- Aviceda Therapeutics Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (A.L.); (D.C.); (D.K.); (M.A.G.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Central Florida School of Medicine, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine, Orlando, FL 34787, USA
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31
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Klymenko V, González Martínez OG, Zarbin M. Recent Progress in Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cell-Based Therapy for Retinal Disease. Stem Cells Transl Med 2024; 13:317-331. [PMID: 38394392 PMCID: PMC11016854 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szae004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa are degenerative retinal diseases that cause severe vision loss. Early clinical trials involving transplantation of retinal pigment epithelial cells and/or photoreceptors as a treatment for these conditions are underway. In this review, we summarize recent progress in the field of retinal pigment epithelium transplantation, including some pertinent clinical trial results as well as preclinical studies that address issues of transplant immunology, cell delivery, and cell manufacturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeriia Klymenko
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Orlando G González Martínez
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Marco Zarbin
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
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Klymenko V, González Martínez OG, Zarbin MA. Recent Progress in Photoreceptor Cell-Based Therapy for Degenerative Retinal Disease. Stem Cells Transl Med 2024; 13:332-345. [PMID: 38417110 PMCID: PMC11016853 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szae005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa are degenerative retinal diseases that cause severe vision loss. Early clinical trials involving transplantation of photoreceptors as treatment for these conditions are underway. In this review, we summarize recent progress in the field of photoreceptor transplantation, including some pertinent results regarding photoreceptor manufacture, photoreceptor transplantation, mechanisms of donor-host cell integration such as material transfer and photoreceptor transplant immunology. We conclude by proposing several approaches that may provide a rational basis for selecting a vision restoration strategy (eg, donor-host synapse formation vs donor-host nanotube formation) and improved transplant efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeriia Klymenko
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, USA
| | - Orlando G González Martínez
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, USA
| | - Marco A Zarbin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, USA
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Krishnan A, Callanan DG, Sendra VG, Lad A, Christian S, Earla R, Khanehzar A, Tolentino AJ, Vailoces VAS, Greene MK, Scott CJ, Kunimoto DY, Hassan TS, Genead MA, Tolentino MJ. Comprehensive Ocular and Systemic Safety Evaluation of Polysialic Acid-Decorated Immune Modulating Therapeutic Nanoparticles (PolySia-NPs) to Support Entry into First-in-Human Clinical Trials. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:481. [PMID: 38675441 PMCID: PMC11054942 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
An inflammation-resolving polysialic acid-decorated PLGA nanoparticle (PolySia-NP) has been developed to treat geographic atrophy/age-related macular degeneration and other conditions caused by macrophage and complement over-activation. While PolySia-NPs have demonstrated pre-clinical efficacy, this study evaluated its systemic and intraocular safety. PolySia-NPs were evaluated in vitro for mutagenic activity using Salmonella strains and E. coli, with and without metabolic activation; cytotoxicity was evaluated based on its interference with normal mitosis. PolySia-NPs were administered intravenously in CD-1 mice and Sprague Dawley rats and assessed for survival and toxicity. Intravitreal (IVT) administration in Dutch Belted rabbits and non-human primates was assessed for ocular or systemic toxicity. In vitro results indicate that PolySia-NPs did not induce mutagenicity or cytotoxicity. Intravenous administration did not show clastogenic activity, effects on survival, or toxicity. A single intravitreal (IVT) injection and two elevated repeat IVT doses of PolySia-NPs separated by 7 days in rabbits showed no signs of systemic or ocular toxicity. A single IVT inoculation of PolySia-NPs in non-human primates demonstrated no adverse clinical or ophthalmological effects. The demonstration of systemic and ocular safety of PolySia-NPs supports its advancement into human clinical trials as a promising therapeutic approach for systemic and retinal degenerative diseases caused by chronic immune activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anitha Krishnan
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
| | - David G. Callanan
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Victor G. Sendra
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Amit Lad
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Sunny Christian
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Ravinder Earla
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Ali Khanehzar
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Andrew J. Tolentino
- Department of Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA;
| | | | - Michelle K. Greene
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
- The Patrick G. Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK
| | - Christopher J. Scott
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
- The Patrick G. Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK
| | - Derek Y. Kunimoto
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Tarek S. Hassan
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Royal Oaks, MI 48067, USA
| | - Mohamed A. Genead
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Michael J. Tolentino
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (D.G.C.); (A.L.); (S.C.); (R.E.); (A.K.); (M.K.G.); (C.J.S.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.H.); (M.A.G.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Central Florida School of Medicine, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine, Orlando, FL 34787, USA
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Teng M, Xia ZJ, Lo N, Daud K, He HH. Assembling the RNA therapeutics toolbox. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2024; 4:110-128. [PMID: 38680684 PMCID: PMC11046573 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2023-0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
From the approval of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines to the 2023 Nobel Prize awarded for nucleoside base modifications, RNA therapeutics have entered the spotlight and are transforming drug development. While the term "RNA therapeutics" has been used in various contexts, this review focuses on treatments that utilize RNA as a component or target RNA for therapeutic effects. We summarize the latest advances in RNA-targeting tools and RNA-based technologies, including but not limited to mRNA, antisense oligos, siRNAs, small molecules and RNA editors. We focus on the mechanisms of current FDA-approved therapeutics but also provide a discussion on the upcoming workforces. The clinical utility of RNA-based therapeutics is enabled not only by the advances in RNA technologies but in conjunction with the significant improvements in chemical modifications and delivery platforms, which are also briefly discussed in the review. We summarize the latest RNA therapeutics based on their mechanisms and therapeutic effects, which include expressing proteins for vaccination and protein replacement therapies, degrading deleterious RNA, modulating transcription and translation efficiency, targeting noncoding RNAs, binding and modulating protein activity and editing RNA sequences and modifications. This review emphasizes the concept of an RNA therapeutic toolbox, pinpointing the readers to all the tools available for their desired research and clinical goals. As the field advances, the catalog of RNA therapeutic tools continues to grow, further allowing researchers to combine appropriate RNA technologies with suitable chemical modifications and delivery platforms to develop therapeutics tailored to their specific clinical challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Teng
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ziting Judy Xia
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nicholas Lo
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kashif Daud
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Housheng Hansen He
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Curcio CA, Kar D, Owsley C, Sloan KR, Ach T. Age-Related Macular Degeneration, a Mathematically Tractable Disease. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:4. [PMID: 38466281 PMCID: PMC10916886 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.3.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
A progression sequence for age-related macular degeneration onset may be determinable with consensus neuroanatomical nomenclature augmented by drusen biology and eye-tracked clinical imaging. This narrative review proposes to supplement the Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (sETDRS) grid with a ring to capture high rod densities. Published photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) densities in flat mounted aged-normal donor eyes were recomputed for sETDRS rings including near-periphery rich in rods and cumulatively for circular fovea-centered regions. Literature was reviewed for tissue-level studies of aging outer retina, population-level epidemiology studies regionally assessing risk, vision studies regionally assessing rod-mediated dark adaptation (RMDA), and impact of atrophy on photopic visual acuity. The 3 mm-diameter xanthophyll-rich macula lutea is rod-dominant and loses rods in aging whereas cone and RPE numbers are relatively stable. Across layers, the largest aging effects are accumulation of lipids prominent in drusen, loss of choriocapillary coverage of Bruch's membrane, and loss of rods. Epidemiology shows maximal risk for drusen-related progression in the central subfield with only one third of this risk level in the inner ring. RMDA studies report greatest slowing at the perimeter of this high-risk area. Vision declines precipitously when the cone-rich central subfield is invaded by geographic atrophy. Lifelong sustenance of foveal cone vision within the macula lutea leads to vulnerability in late adulthood that especially impacts rods at its perimeter. Adherence to an sETDRS grid and outer retinal cell populations within it will help dissect mechanisms, prioritize research, and assist in selecting patients for emerging treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine A. Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Deepayan Kar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Cynthia Owsley
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Kenneth R. Sloan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Thomas Ach
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Del Priore LV. To Treat or Not to Treat Geographic Atrophy - That is the Question. Ophthalmol Retina 2024; 8:207-209. [PMID: 38448115 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
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Whalen M, Akula M, McNamee SM, DeAngelis MM, Haider NB. Seeing the Future: A Review of Ocular Therapy. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:179. [PMID: 38391665 PMCID: PMC10886198 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11020179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Ocular diseases present a unique challenge and opportunity for therapeutic development. The eye has distinct advantages as a therapy target given its accessibility, compartmentalization, immune privilege, and size. Various methodologies for therapeutic delivery in ocular diseases are under investigation that impact long-term efficacy, toxicity, invasiveness, and delivery range. While gene, cell, and antibody therapy and nanoparticle delivery directly treat regions that have been damaged by disease, they can be limited in the duration of the therapeutic delivery and have a focal effect. In contrast, contact lenses and ocular implants can more effectively achieve sustained and widespread delivery of therapies; however, they can increase dilution of therapeutics, which may result in reduced effectiveness. Current therapies either offer a sustained release or a broad therapeutic effect, and future directions should aim toward achieving both. This review discusses current ocular therapy delivery systems and their applications, mechanisms for delivering therapeutic products to ocular tissues, advantages and challenges associated with each delivery system, current approved therapies, and clinical trials. Future directions for the improvement in existing ocular therapies include combination therapies, such as combined cell and gene therapies, as well as AI-driven devices, such as cortical implants that directly transmit visual information to the cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maiya Whalen
- Department of Biology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA
| | | | | | - Margaret M DeAngelis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Neena B Haider
- Shifa Precision, Boston, MA 02138, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02138, USA
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Künzel SH, Broadbent E, Möller PT, Lindner M, Goerdt L, Czauderna J, Schmitz-Valckenberg S, Holz FG, Pfau M, Fleckenstein M. Association of lesion location and functional parameters on vision-related quality of life in geographic atrophy secondary to AMD. Ophthalmol Retina 2024:S2468-6530(24)00057-5. [PMID: 38311207 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2024.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The primary goal of this study was to determine how structural and functional parameters influence the vision-related quality of life (VRQoL) in patients suffering from geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to age-related macular degeneration. DESIGN This study was designed as a prospective, non-interventional, natural-history study (Directional Spread in Geographic-Atrophy study, NCT02051998). SUBJECTS The research involved 82 patients with bilateral GA. METHODS The study examined parameters including GA location as assessed by the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study grid, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), low-luminance visual acuity (LLVA), reading acuity, and speed. These parameters were then correlated with VRQoL, which was gauged using the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire 25 (NEI VFQ-25). The analysis method employed was the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator with linear mixed-effects models. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The central parameters measured in this study encompassed GA area, VRQoL scores associated with different GA subfields, and the significance of LLVA for foveal-sparing patients. RESULTS On average, patients showed a total GA area of 2.9 ± 1.2 mm2 in the better eye and 3.1 ± 1.3 mm2 in the worse eye. The most significant associations with VRQoL scores for distance and near activities were observed in the inner lower and inner left subfields of the better eye, respectively. For patients with foveal-sparing GA, the LLVA of the better eye stood out as the most influential variable across all VRQoL scales. CONCLUSIONS The study's findings point towards the pivotal role of GA location, especially the inner lower and inner left subfields of the better eye, in relation to VRQoL in GA patients. The LLVA's importance becomes even more pronounced for foveal-sparing patients. These observations highlight the need for healthcare professionals to better understand the association between lesion location and patient-reported outcomes. This is critical for informing treatment decisions and refining the planning of interventional trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eliza Broadbent
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 North Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, 84312, UT, United States
| | | | - Moritz Lindner
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Department of Neurophysiology, Philipps University, Deutschhausstr. 1-2, Marburg 35037, Germany; Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Lukas Goerdt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Steffen Schmitz-Valckenberg
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany; Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 North Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, 84312, UT, United States
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Maximilian Pfau
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Monika Fleckenstein
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 North Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, 84312, UT, United States
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Dinah C, Enoch J, Ghulakhszian A, Sekhon M, Crabb DP, Taylor DJ. Patient acceptability of intravitreal complement inhibitors in geographic atrophy (GA): protocol for a UK-based cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e075713. [PMID: 38238063 PMCID: PMC10806947 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Geographic atrophy (GA) is the advanced form of the non-neovascular ('dry') type of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Previously untreatable, complement inhibitors delivered by regular intravitreal injections have recently been demonstrated to slow down the progression of GA lesions in phase 3 trials. One such treatment, Syfovre (pegcetacoplan), was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in February 2023. These therapies slow down, but do not stop or reverse, the progression of GA; they may also increase the risk of developing the neovascular ('wet') type of AMD. In light of these developments, this study aims to quantify the acceptability of these new intravitreal injection treatments to patients with GA in the UK and explore factors that may influence the acceptability of these treatments. METHODS AND ANALYSIS In this cross-sectional, non-interventional study, the primary objective is to determine the proportion of patients with GA that find regular intravitreal therapy acceptable for slowing the progression of GA. We will use a validated acceptability questionnaire in order to quantify the acceptability of new treatments among patients with GA. The correlation between acceptability and functional and structural biomarkers of GA will be established. We will also explore demographic, general health and ocular factors that may influence acceptability. 180 individuals with a diagnosis of GA will be recruited from 7 to 8 participating National Health Service trusts across the UK. Multiple regression analysis will be conducted to determine the simultaneous effects of multiple factors on patient acceptability. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study received ethical approval from the Health Research Authority on 14 March 2023 (IRAS Project ID: 324854). Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations to the medical retina community, as well as through dialogue with patients and macular disease charities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiana Dinah
- Ophthalmology, London North West Healthcare NHS Trust, Harrow, UK
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - Mandeep Sekhon
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - David P Crabb
- Department of Optometry and Visual Science, City University, London, UK
| | - Deanna J Taylor
- Department of Optometry and Visual Science, City University, London, UK
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Fleckenstein M, Schmitz-Valckenberg S, Chakravarthy U. Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Review. JAMA 2024; 331:147-157. [PMID: 38193957 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2023.26074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Importance Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects approximately 20 million people in the US and 196 million people worldwide. AMD is a leading cause of severe vision impairment in older people and is expected to affect approximately 288 million people worldwide by 2040. Observations Older age, genetic factors, and environmental factors, such as cigarette smoking, are associated with development of AMD. AMD occurs when extracellular deposits accumulate in the outer retina, ultimately leading to photoreceptor degeneration and loss of central vision. The late stages of AMD are characterized by outer retinal atrophy, termed geographic atrophy, or neovascularization associated with subretinal and/or intraretinal exudation, termed exudative neovascular AMD. The annual incidence of AMD ranges from 0.3 per 1000 in people who are aged 55 to 59 years to 36.7 per 1000 in people aged 90 years or older. The estimated heritability of late-stage AMD is approximately 71% (95% CI, 18%-88%). Long-term prospective cohort studies show a significantly higher AMD incidence in people who smoke more than 20 cigarettes per day compared with people who never smoked. AMD is diagnosed primarily with clinical examination that includes a special lens that focuses light of the slit lamp through the pupil. Exudative neovascular AMD is best identified using angiography and by optical coherence tomography. Individuals with AMD who take nutritional supplements consisting of high-dose vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, and zinc have a 20% probability to progress to late-stage AMD at 5 years vs a 28% probability for those taking a placebo. In exudative neovascular AMD, 94.6% of patients receiving monthly intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections experience less than a 15-letter visual acuity loss after 12 months compared with 62.2% receiving sham treatment. Conclusions and Relevance The prevalence of AMD is anticipated to increase worldwide to 288 million individuals by 2040. Intravitreally administered anti-VEGF treatment is first-line therapy for exudative neovascular AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Steffen Schmitz-Valckenberg
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Tolentino MJ, Tolentino AJ, Tolentino EM, Krishnan A, Genead MA. Sialic Acid Mimetic Microglial Sialic Acid-Binding Immunoglobulin-like Lectin Agonism: Potential to Restore Retinal Homeostasis and Regain Visual Function in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1735. [PMID: 38139861 PMCID: PMC10747662 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of visual loss and dysfunction worldwide, is a disease initiated by genetic polymorphisms that impair the negative regulation of complement. Proteomic investigation points to altered glycosylation and loss of Siglec-mediated glyco-immune checkpoint parainflammatory and inflammatory homeostasis as the main determinant for the vision impairing complications of macular degeneration. The effect of altered glycosylation on microglial maintained retinal para-inflammatory homeostasis and eventual recruitment and polarization of peripheral blood monocyte-derived macrophages (PBMDMs) into the retina can explain the phenotypic variability seen in this clinically heterogenous disease. Restoring glyco-immune checkpoint control with a sialic acid mimetic agonist targeting microglial/macrophage Siglecs to regain retinal para-inflammatory and inflammatory homeostasis is a promising therapeutic that could halt the progression of and improve visual function in all stages of macular degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Tolentino
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine, Orlando, FL 34787, USA
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (M.A.G.)
| | - Andrew J. Tolentino
- Department of Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA;
| | | | - Anitha Krishnan
- Aviceda Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.K.); (M.A.G.)
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Meyer CH, Melo GB, Khanani AM. Can intravitreal injections with higher volume cause higher intraocular eye pressure? Considerations for anti-complement injections in normal and glaucomatous eyes. Int J Retina Vitreous 2023; 9:80. [PMID: 38098108 PMCID: PMC10722703 DOI: 10.1186/s40942-023-00517-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The approval of Syfovre® (pegcetacoplan) and Iverzay® (avacincaptad pegol) for the treatment of geographic atrophy (GA) marks a significant advancement in retinal disease therapy, offering both complement 3 and complement 5 inhibitors. With this breakthrough, an increase in intravitreal injections (IVI) is expected to treat GA, raising questions about potential effects on intraocular pressure (IOP). This concern is exacerbated by the larger injection volume required for GA treatment, potentially impacting IOP. Previous studies have shown that IVI can lead to a temporary increase in IOP with a 0.05 ml injection. This transient elevation is challenging to manage with glaucoma drops, and a preventive approach, such as paracentesis immediately before IVIs, may be more effective. Despite concerns, clinical significance and long-term effects of IOP changes with a 0.05 ml injection remain uncertain. To address these concerns, routine evaluations including macular optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus autofluorescence, IOP measurements, and retinal nerve fiber layer OCT before the first IVI with avacincaptad pegol and pegcetacoplan are recommended to detect potential changes early. Further research is needed to determine the extent to which IOP changes impact GA patients and whether cumulative effects occur with repeated IVIs, especially in those with additional eye conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carsten H Meyer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo/Paulista School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
- Augenärzte Graubünden, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Gustavo Barreto Melo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo/Paulista School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Arshad M Khanani
- Sierra Eye Associates, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
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Pierre M, Lamaa D, Fabre M, Ronco C, Benhida R, Demange L, Charrueau C. [Topical treatment for age-related macular degeneration: Where are we now?]. Med Sci (Paris) 2023; 39:958-966. [PMID: 38108727 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2023177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic management of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major public health issue. One of its two late forms, neovascular AMD, is currently treated by intravitreal injections of pharmaceutical active ingredients. Although it is very effective in treating pathologies of the posterior segment of the eye, the intravitreal route is not an ideal option for the long-term management of a chronic disease such as AMD. Indeed, in the literature, some authors even call it a "burden" for the practitioners, the patients and the healthcare system. Thus, consideration should be given to less invasive routes. Among the possible administration routes to reach the posterior segment of the eye, the most suitable for the patient with the least risk of systemic adverse effects is the topical route. Several research teams have attempted to formulate molecules for topical administration in the treatment of atrophic or neovascular AMD. In this review, we emphasize the importance of the pharmaceutical formulation to meet the challenge of targeting the posterior segment of the eye by a topical route.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitta Pierre
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Inserm, UTCBS (unité de technologies chimiques et biologiques pour la santé, CiTCoM : cibles thérapeutiques et conception de médicaments), F-75006 Paris, France - Université Paris Cité, CNRS, CiTCoM*, F-75006 Paris, France - Service d'ophtalmologie, CHU de Martinique, 97261 Fort-de-France, France
| | - Diana Lamaa
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, CiTCoM*, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Marie Fabre
- Institut de chimie de Nice, UMR 7272 CNRS, Parc Valrose, 06000 Nice, France
| | - Cyril Ronco
- Institut de chimie de Nice, UMR 7272 CNRS, Parc Valrose, 06000 Nice, France
| | - Rachid Benhida
- Institut de chimie de Nice, UMR 7272 CNRS, Parc Valrose, 06000 Nice, France - Chemical and Biochemical Sciences, Green Process Engineering, Université Mohammed VI Polytechnique (UM6P), Lot 660 - Hay Moulay Rachid, 43150 Ben Guerir, Maroc
| | - Luc Demange
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, CiTCoM*, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Christine Charrueau
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Inserm, UTCBS (unité de technologies chimiques et biologiques pour la santé, CiTCoM : cibles thérapeutiques et conception de médicaments), F-75006 Paris, France
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Chew EY. Complement inhibitors for the treatment of geographic atrophy. Lancet 2023; 402:1396-1398. [PMID: 37865456 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01844-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Y Chew
- Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-1204, USA.
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Ferro Desideri L, Artemiev D, Bernardi E, Paschon K, Zandi S, Zinkernagel M, Anguita R. Investigational drugs inhibiting complement for the treatment of geographic atrophy. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2023; 32:1009-1016. [PMID: 37902056 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2023.2276759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Geographic atrophy (GA) is a progressive form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that leads to severe visual impairment and central vision loss. Traditional treatment options for GA are limited, highlighting the need for new therapeutic approaches. In recent years, targeting the complement system has emerged as a promising strategy for the treatment of GA. AREAS COVERED This expert opinion article reviews the investigational drugs inhibiting the complement cascade for the treatment of GA. Specifically, it focuses on the recent FDA approved pegcetacoplan, a C3 complement inhibitor, and avacincaptad pegol, a C5 complement inhibitor, highlighting their potential efficacy and safety profiles based on clinical trial data. EXPERT OPINION FDA approval of intravitreal pegcetacoplan and avacincaptad pegol marks significant progress in the landscape of GA treatment. However, variable results from trials underscore the complex nature of GA and the importance of patient selection. Complement inhibition holds promise, but ongoing research is vital to refine treatment strategies and offer improved outcomes for GA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Ferro Desideri
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Bern Photographic Reading Center, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dmitri Artemiev
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Enrico Bernardi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Karin Paschon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Souska Zandi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Bern Photographic Reading Center, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Martin Zinkernagel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Bern Photographic Reading Center, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Rodrigo Anguita
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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