ABOUT INTEGRIN INHIBITION
As part of our small molecule program, we are evaluating the suprachoroidal administration of an integrin inhibitor suspension. Integrins play a role in pathologic processes, such as inflammation, angiogenesis and fibrosis. Suprachoroidal delivery of an integrin inhibitor suspension could provide targeting, compartmentalization and durability advantages over topical or intravitreal delivery, similar to what we have observed in other preclinical studies of small molecule suspensions, such as triamcinolone acetonide and axitinib.
Illustration of Integrin Showing Binding Region
POTENTIAL BENEFITS
TARGET INDICATIONS
We believe an integrin inhibitor suspension could serve as primary therapy, adjunctive therapy to anti-VEGF agents or secondary therapy in refractory cases of diabetic macular edema and macular degeneration. Integrin inhibition has had some recent preliminary validation in preclinical models and clinical studies of diabetic macular edema and macular degeneration conducted by others in the scientific community.
In people with diabetes, too much blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels at the back inner wall of the eye (retina) or block them completely. This condition is diabetic retinopathy. Sometimes, tiny bulges (microaneurysms) protrude from the vessel walls, leaking or oozing fluid and blood into the retina. This fluid can cause swelling (edema) in the central part of the retina (macula). This is a serious eye complication called diabetic macular edema that can cause vision problems or blindness. Learn more from the Mayo Clinic.
PIPELINE STATUS:
PRECLINICAL STUDIES
We are assessing ocular tolerability, distribution and pharmacokinetics of our integrin inhibitor suprachoroidal suspension in a series of preclinical studies.
References:
The integrin inhibitor image has been released for public use by its creator and original copyright holder and is available here.