Latest news with #DiabeticMacularEdema
Time of India
22-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Vision loss due to Diabetic Retinopathy: A national crisis
As India grapples with an escalating diabetes crisis, with 101 million 1 diagnosed and 136 million with pre-diabetes, the country is faced with an urgent but unrecognised public health threat from Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) and Vision-Threatening Diabetic Retinopathy (VTDR). A staggering 16.9% of people with diabetes suffer from DR, and 3.6% from VTDR 2 and face irreversible blindness. It strikes people in their most productive years, severely impacting their quality of life and creating profound economic and social ramifications. As India aims to become a developed economy by 2047 (Viksit Bharat), improving citizens' quality of life is a key government agenda. Retinal diseases, often overlooked, demand the same urgency and national focus that transformed cataract care in the country. In response to this urgent challenge, Mission Vision has been launched to elevate retinal health to the forefront of India's public health agenda. Mission Vision: A confluence of expertise Mission Vision, a public health initiative by The Vitreo Retinal Society of India (VRSI) and Times of India, supported by Roche, has been launched to tackle preventable blindness and improve retinal health in India. Under Mission Vision, the VIEW Council, a multi-stakeholder task force of retina experts, ophthalmology societies, policymakers, and industry partners has been formed to focus on reducing the burden of avoidable blindness due to DR. The inaugural meeting saw strong participation from the VRSI leadership, alongside other leading experts. The Council pledged to drive multi-stakeholder action, build awareness, advocate for early screening, and better access to treatment across India. [L to R] Dr. Vinod Aggarwal (Professor of Vitreo Retina Services, AIIMS, New Delhi); Dr. Muna Bhende (Director Vitreo Retinal Services, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai); and Dr. Rajeev R Pappuru (Consultant Ophthalmologist, Vice Chair, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad) Founding members of the VIEW council Dr. R Kim (President, VRSI and Chief Medical Officer, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai) Dr. Manisha Agarwal (General Secretary, VRSI and HOD, Vitreo Retina Dept, Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi) Dr. Vishali Gupta (Chief of Retina and Uvea Services at Post Graduate Institute (PGI) of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh) Dr. Muna Bhende (Director Vitreo Retinal Services, Sankara Nethralaya , Chennai) Dr. Vinod Agarwal (Professor of Vitreo Retina Services, AIIMS, New Delhi) Dr. Rajeev R Pappuru (Consultant Ophthalmologist, Vice Chair, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad) Dr. Chaitra Jayadev (Senior Consultant- Vitreoretina Services, Narayana Nethralaya, Bengaluru) Dr. Partha Biswas (President, AIOS and Medical Director at Netralayam and Trenetralaya , Kolkata) Dr. Ajay Aurora (Executive Director Vitreoretina Consultant , Vision Plus Eye Centre, Noida) Ms. Rajwinder (Rajji) Mehdwan (CEO and MD, Roche Pharma) [L to R] Ms. Rajwinder (Rajji) Mehdwan (CEO and MD, Roche Pharma); Dr. Muna Bhende (Director Vitreo Retinal Services, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai); Dr. Rajeev R Pappuru (Consultant Ophthalmologist, Vice Chair, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad); Dr. Manisha Agarwal (General Secretary, VRSI and HOD, Vitreo Retina Dept, Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi); and Dr. R Kim (President, VRSI and Chief Medical Officer, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai) The experts acknowledged the tremendous efforts taken by the government to combat blindness secondary to cataract; however, the tide of retinal disorders due to diabetes is a growing and urgent problem. A recurring theme was the critical need for a massive, nationwide awareness campaign. Nearly nine out of 10 patients with diabetes had never had a retinal examination 3 , showing the enormity of the problem. Driving focus on retinal disorders and making annual retinal examinations a national priority will ensure this growing disease burden is addressed. [L to R] Dr. Manisha Agarwal (General Secretary, VRSI and HOD, Vitreo Retina Dept, Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi) and Dr. R Kim (President, VRSI and Chief Medical Officer, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai); Dr. Chaitra Jayadev (Senior Consultant- Vitreoretina Services, Narayana Nethralaya, Bengaluru); Dr. Vishali Gupta (Chief of Retina and Uvea Services at Post Graduate Institute (PGI) of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh); and Dr. Partha Biswas (President, AIOS and Medical Director at Netralayam and Trenetralaya, Kolkata) Dr. R Kim emphasised the need for a collaborative approach, stating, 'Several stakeholders must be involved to increase awareness. Not only the patients with diabetes, but even primary care physicians, diabetologists, chemists, and optometrists must be made aware of the dangers of retinal disorders like DR. It is about starting a national conversation where every patient asks for an eye exam. We cannot afford to lose another person's vision to silence.' This sentiment was echoed with a call for making screening ubiquitous. Dr. Manisha Agarwal drew a powerful analogy for its ideal accessibility, 'Diabetes is silently stealing the sight of millions across urban and rural India, often without any warning. The real tragedy is that blindness due to DR is preventable. DR screening should be as accessible as the availability of a weighing machine at railway stations. On the other hand, the inclusion of intravitreal injections in Ayushman Bharat , with its need being assessed by OCT, can go a long way towards improving access to treatment.' Experts also highlighted the need to leverage government schemes. Dr. Vishali Gupta pointed out, 'Ayushman Bharat has been a phenomenal effort to ensure that treatment reaches the most vulnerable. NGOs and strategic public-private partnerships can also help in improving awareness and DR screening at the grassroots level. However, a lot needs to be done towards upskilling the ophthalmologists to screen and evaluate patients with retinal disorders effectively.' Creative strategies for awareness such as reaching out to schools and organizations with a large sedentary population were also discussed. Dr. Muna Bhende suggested a two-pronged approach for different demographics. 'School children can become your primary influencers, and sensitize their parents to the dangers of blindness due to DR. Also, awareness programmes can leverage the trust that NGOs have built with the local population to ensure the message reaches every corner of India.' Setting a clear, ambitious goal was seen as crucial. Dr. Rajeev R Pappuru articulated a powerful vision for the future. 'By 2030, no diabetic should go without an eye check-up, including a retinal screening. From the first diagnosis of diabetes to annual follow-ups, DR screening should become an integral part of diabetes care, with access at the patient's doorstep.' To achieve all of this, patient empowerment is key. Dr. Vinod Agarwal said, 'Our growth over the past few decades has been due to the demand in services. Raise awareness to the level that the patients demand DR screening and we can then offer it as a service. That will help in widespread adoption of screening and also help in mandating the availability of fundus cameras at all centres. Also, the inclusion of intravitreal injections in Ayushman Bharat can go a long way towards improving access to treatment for DR.' Currently, Ayushman Bharat includes DR screening in 12 states but only upon submission of an OCT photograph, which restricts its use by physicians who may not have an OCT machine. In some states, the government has supplied physicians and diabetologists with non-mydriatic fundus cameras which help in detection of DR. Expansion of DR screening under Ayushman Bharat to all states and the implementation of such scalable screening models can improve DR detection significantly, the experts opined. Dr. Chaitra Jayadev emphasised, 'Every physician who encounters a patient with diabetes must urge them to go for retinal screening. The outstanding success with the pulse polio program shows us that widespread awareness campaigns can yield results. Our country's technological prowess can be leveraged to develop low-cost screening devices that can help us reach every patient. Linking the Aadhar ID/digital health IDs to medical records can also help clinicians track the patient's progress and ensure adequate follow-up.' Alongside awareness, building capacity is also important. With only 3500 retinal specialists available, striking a balance by finding innovative avenues to upskill the workforce is essential. Dr. Partha Biswas stressed, 'Academic enhancement and capacity building should go hand-in-hand with increasing awareness. Training postgraduate students in fundus screening and enhancing their ability to detect these disorders can help improve access to care.' Addressing the infrastructure gap is another critical piece of the puzzle. Dr. Ajay Aurora provided a stark reality check. 'There are 806 districts in India but only 50% have district hospitals, and only two-thirds of those have ophthalmology services. Putting a hub-and-spoke model in place so that patients are referred to adequately equipped care centres is essential.' Speaking on the need for urgent action, Roche Pharma's Rajwinder (Rajji) Mehdwan said, 'To millions suffering from retinal diseases, the gift of vision should be a guarantee, a right, supported by the very best of our science, our policy, and our collective will. The question is not if we can eliminate preventable vision loss, but how soon we act to build a future where sight is accessible for all. Vision health is not a luxury but a necessity for every individual to live a fulfilling life. By making it a national priority, we can ensure a world where everyone has the opportunity to see clearly and experience life to its fullest. Roche is committed to bringing its global healthcare ecosystem shaping expertise to make Mission Vision a reality.' [L to R] Dr. Indu Bhushan (Former CEO, National Health Authority & Ayushman Bharat) and Dr. Rajni Kant Srivastava, ICMR- Chair for Disease Elimination The discussion coalesced around the need for concrete policy action with contributions from eminent policymakers. Dr. Indu Bhushan (Former CEO, National Health Authority & Ayushman Bharat), drawing from his extensive experience, noted, 'Retina health is closely tied to the twin silent epidemics of Diabetes and Hypertension in India. Policy change can happen if there is enough evidence. A policy document that explains the scale of the problem, its economic and social impact, existing gaps in the ophthalmology space, and how they can be plugged can help put things in perspective.' Providing an update on current government efforts, Dr. K Madan Gopal (Advisor, Public Health Administration, NHSRC, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare) said, 'We have defined norms through the Indian Public Health Standards for all levels of care. Furthermore, at our 1,70,000 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, we are already equipping our Community Health Officers for the basic screening of eye disorders, including the use of an ophthalmoscope.' Talking about best practices that can be replicated, Dr. Rajni Kant Srivastava , ICMR- Chair for Disease Elimination said, 'Though India is a land of vast disparities, states like Kerala have prioritized eye health. For instance, the Nayan Amritham initiative was a successful and scalable programme in which ASHA workers identified diabetic patients for retinopathy screening using handheld non-mydriatic cameras. The images were sent to a central hub for evaluation and treatment advice. Telemedicine can also help in ensuring care reaches remote areas.' The VIEW Council charter: A roadmap to help India see better The culmination of these deliberations was a comprehensive charter, a clear and actionable roadmap designed to make retinal screening a fundamental right in India and aiming to decrease VTDR to less than 1%. Mission Vision will focus on driving large-scale public awareness about DR, integrate retinal screening with existing NCD screening programmes, design protocols for every patient to undergo retinal screening, build capacity for widespread screening and diagnosis, and ensure advanced treatment options, like intravitreal injections, are made available through programmes like Ayushman Bharat. The VIEW Council's inaugural meeting marks a decisive and powerful step towards safeguarding the vision of millions. With a clear charter, the journey to make retinal health a national priority has officially begun. References -
Globe and Mail
16-07-2025
- Health
- Globe and Mail
Diabetic Macular Edema Pipeline 2025: MOA, ROA, FDA-Approved Drugs, and Clinical Trial Progress Assessment by DelveInsight
(Las Vegas, Nevada, United States) As per DelveInsight's assessment, globally, Diabetic Macular Edema pipeline constitutes key companies continuously working towards developing Diabetic Macular Edema treatment therapies, analysis of Clinical Trials, Therapies, Mechanism of Action, Route of Administration, and Developments analyzes DelveInsight. ' Diabetic Macular Edema Pipeline Insight, 2025" report by DelveInsight outlines comprehensive insights into the present clinical development scenario and growth prospects across the Diabetic Macular Edema Market. The Diabetic Macular Edema Pipeline report embraces in-depth commercial and clinical assessment of the pipeline products from the pre-clinical developmental phase to the marketed phase. The report also covers a detailed description of the drug, including the mechanism of action of the drug, clinical studies, NDA approvals (if any), and product development activities comprising the technology, collaborations, mergers acquisition, funding, designations, and other product-related details. Some of the key takeaways from the Diabetic Macular Edema Pipeline Report: Companies across the globe are diligently working toward developing novel Diabetic Macular Edema treatment therapies with a considerable amount of success over the years. Diabetic Macular Edema companies working in the treatment market are Eluminex BioSciences, Ocugen, Innovent biologics, Curacle, GlaxoSmithKline, Exonate Limited, Ocuphire Pharma, Unity Biotechnology, Allgenesis Biotherapeutics Inc., Mylan, Kodiak Sciences, Novartis, Roche, Kodiak Sciences, Adverum Biotechnologies, Graybug Vision, Oxurion, Novartis, YD Life Science, Allegro, Opthalmics/Bausch Health, Clearside Biomedical, KalVista Pharmaceuticals, and others, are developing therapies for the Diabetic Macular Edema treatment Emerging Diabetic Macular Edema therapies in the different phases of clinical trials are- EB-102, OCU200, IBI324, CU06-1004, GSK-2798745, EXN407, APX3330, UBX1325, AG-73305, MYL-1701P, KSI-301, BEOVU (RTH258; brolucizumab), VABYSMO (faricimab), KSI-301, ADVM-022, GB-102, THR-149, LKA651, YD-312, Luminate (ALG-1001, Risuteganib), Xipere (CLS-TA), KVD001, and others are expected to have a significant impact on the Diabetic Macular Edema market in the coming years. In March 2025, Unity Biotechnology reported topline results from its Phase 2b ASPIRE clinical trial evaluating intravitreal UBX1325 in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) who continued to experience poor vision despite prior anti-VEGF therapy. The trial data includes outcomes for all participants through 24 weeks and most through 36 weeks. ASPIRE (NCT06011798) is a multi-center, randomized, double-masked, active-controlled Phase 2b study. A total of 52 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either 10 μg of UBX1325 or 2 mg of aflibercept every 8 weeks for six months following randomization. In March 2025, Ocugen, Inc. (NASDAQ: OCGN), a biotechnology company focused on gene therapies for blindness-related conditions, announced that the Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) has reviewed safety data from the first cohort in the dose-escalation phase of its Phase 1 OCU200 clinical trial. Based on this evaluation, the DSMB has given the green light to begin dosing the second cohort. OCU200 is an innovative fusion protein combining tumstatin and transferrin, being developed as a potential therapy for diabetic macular edema (DME). In February 2025, EyePoint Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: EYPT), focused on developing innovative therapies for serious retinal diseases, has shared promising six-month data from its ongoing Phase 2 VERONA trial of DURAVYU™ (vorolanib intravitreal insert). This investigational, sustained-release treatment utilizes the company's proprietary bioerodible Durasert E™ platform to deliver the selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor, vorolanib. The study successfully met its primary endpoint by significantly delaying the need for supplemental injections compared to the aflibercept control group in both DURAVYU dosage arms. Notably, patients experienced sustained visual improvement and anatomical stability, with no serious ocular or systemic adverse events related to DURAVYU. At week 24, the 2.7mg dose group achieved a +7.1 letter improvement in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and a 76-micron decrease in central subfield thickness (CST), with 73% of patients avoiding supplemental injections versus 50% in the aflibercept group. These results highlight DURAVYU's strong therapeutic promise for treating severe retinal conditions. In January 2025, Ocugen, Inc. (NASDAQ: OCGN), a biotechnology firm focused on developing cutting-edge gene and cell therapies, biologics, and vaccines, has announced that the first patient has been successfully dosed in its Phase 1 clinical trial of OCU200, a potential treatment for diabetic macular edema (DME). Diabetic Macular Edema Overview Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. It occurs when the macula, which is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, swells due to the accumulation of fluid. DME is a type of diabetic retinopathy, a condition that can affect individuals with diabetes. Emerging Diabetic Macular Edema Drugs Under Different Phases of Clinical Development Include: EB-102: Eluminex BioSciences OCU200: Ocugen IBI324: Innovent biologics CU06-1004: Curacle GSK-2798745: GlaxoSmithKline EXN407: Exonate Limited APX3330: Ocuphire Pharma UBX1325: Unity Biotechnology AG-73305: Allgenesis Biotherapeutics Inc. MYL-1701P: Mylan KSI-301: Kodiak Sciences BEOVU (RTH258; brolucizumab): Novartis VABYSMO (faricimab): Roche KSI-301: Kodiak Sciences ADVM-022: Adverum Biotechnologies GB-102: Graybug Vision THR-149: Oxurion LKA651: Novartis YD-312: YD Life Science Luminate (ALG-1001, Risuteganib): Allegro Opthalmics/Bausch Health Xipere (CLS-TA): Clearside Biomedical KVD001: KalVista Pharmaceuticals Diabetic Macular Edema Pipeline Therapeutics Assessment Diabetic Macular Edema Assessment by Product Type Diabetic Macular Edema By Stage and Product Type Diabetic Macular Edema Assessment by Route of Administration Diabetic Macular Edema By Stage and Route of Administration Diabetic Macular Edema Assessment by Molecule Type Diabetic Macular Edema by Stage and Molecule Type DelveInsight's Diabetic Macular Edema Report covers around products under different phases of clinical development like Late-stage products (Phase III) Mid-stage products (Phase II) Early-stage product (Phase I) Pre-clinical and Discovery stage candidates Discontinued & Inactive candidates Route of Administration Further Diabetic Macular Edema product details are provided in the report. Download the Diabetic Macular Edema pipeline report to learn more about the emerging Diabetic Macular Edema therapies Some of the key companies in the Diabetic Macular Edema Therapeutics Market include: Key companies developing therapies for Diabetic Macular Edema are - Oxurion, Ocuphire Pharma, YD Life Science, Unity Biotechnology, Novartis, Roche, Kodiak Sciences, Adverum Biotechnologies, Graybug Vision, Allegro Opthalmics, Bausch Health, Clearside Biomedical, KalVista Pharmaceuticals, and others. Diabetic Macular Edema Pipeline Analysis: The Diabetic Macular Edema pipeline report provides insights into The report provides detailed insights about companies that are developing therapies for the treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema with aggregate therapies developed by each company for the same. It accesses the Different therapeutic candidates segmented into early-stage, mid-stage, and late-stage of development for Diabetic Macular Edema Treatment. Diabetic Macular Edema key companies are involved in targeted therapeutics development with respective active and inactive (dormant or discontinued) projects. Diabetic Macular Edema Drugs under development based on the stage of development, route of administration, target receptor, monotherapy or combination therapy, a different mechanism of action, and molecular type. Detailed analysis of collaborations (company-company collaborations and company-academia collaborations), licensing agreement and financing details for future advancement of the Diabetic Macular Edema market. The report is built using data and information traced from the researcher's proprietary databases, company/university websites, clinical trial registries, conferences, SEC filings, investor presentations, and featured press releases from company/university websites and industry-specific third-party sources, etc. Diabetic Macular Edema Pipeline Market Drivers Growing Prevalence of diabetes, development of novel therapies, investment in Research and Development activities are some of the important factors that are fueling the Diabetic Macular Edema Market. Diabetic Macular Edema Pipeline Market Barriers However, high medical cost, lack of approved therapies and other factors are creating obstacles in the Diabetic Macular Edema Market growth. Scope of Diabetic Macular Edema Pipeline Drug Insight Coverage: Global Key Diabetic Macular Edema Companies: Eluminex BioSciences, Ocugen, Innovent biologics, Curacle, GlaxoSmithKline, Exonate Limited, Ocuphire Pharma, Unity Biotechnology, Allgenesis Biotherapeutics Inc., Mylan, Kodiak Sciences, Novartis, Roche, Kodiak Sciences, Adverum Biotechnologies, Graybug Vision, Oxurion, Novartis, YD Life Science, Allegro, Opthalmics/Bausch Health, Clearside Biomedical, KalVista Pharmaceuticals, and others Key Diabetic Macular Edema Therapies: EB-102, OCU200, IBI324, CU06-1004, GSK-2798745, EXN407, APX3330, UBX1325, AG-73305, MYL-1701P, KSI-301, BEOVU (RTH258; brolucizumab), VABYSMO (faricimab), KSI-301, ADVM-022, GB-102, THR-149, LKA651, YD-312, Luminate (ALG-1001, Risuteganib), Xipere (CLS-TA), KVD001, and others Diabetic Macular Edema Therapeutic Assessment: Diabetic Macular Edema current marketed and Diabetic Macular Edema emerging therapies Diabetic Macular Edema Market Dynamics: Diabetic Macular Edema market drivers and Diabetic Macular Edema market barriers Table of Contents 1. Diabetic Macular Edema Report Introduction 2. Diabetic Macular Edema Executive Summary 3. Diabetic Macular Edema Overview 4. Diabetic Macular Edema- Analytical Perspective In-depth Commercial Assessment 5. Diabetic Macular Edema Pipeline Therapeutics 6. Diabetic Macular Edema Late Stage Products (Phase II/III) 7. Diabetic Macular Edema Mid Stage Products (Phase II) 8. Diabetic Macular Edema Early Stage Products (Phase I) 9. Diabetic Macular Edema Preclinical Stage Products 10. Diabetic Macular Edema Therapeutics Assessment 11. Diabetic Macular Edema Inactive Products 12. Company-University Collaborations (Licensing/Partnering) Analysis 13. Diabetic Macular Edema Key Companies 14. Diabetic Macular Edema Key Products 15. Diabetic Macular Edema Unmet Needs 16 . Diabetic Macular Edema Market Drivers and Barriers 17. Diabetic Macular Edema Future Perspectives and Conclusion 18. Diabetic Macular Edema Analyst Views 19. Appendix 20. About DelveInsight About DelveInsight DelveInsight is a leading Business Consultant and Market Research firm focused exclusively on life sciences. It supports Pharma companies by providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions to improve their performance. It also offers Healthcare Consulting Services, which benefits in market analysis to accelerate business growth and overcome challenges with a practical approach. Media Contact Company Name: DelveInsight Contact Person: Gaurav Bora Email: Send Email Phone: +14699457679 Address: 304 S. Jones Blvd #2432 City: Albany State: New York Country: United States Website:
Zawya
15-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Saudi Arabia hosts landmark Ophthalmology Meeting to advance (DME) and (RVO) Treatment
Under the title 'Holistic pro-Inflammatory Target for Sight (HITS)' the Ophthalmology Pivotal Meeting kicked off in Saudi Arabia on April 25, 2025, under the auspices of AbbVie, the global biopharmaceutical research and development company. This is a significant move to elevate the standard of care for various eye conditions like Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) and Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO). More than 100 national and international ophthalmologists participated in the meeting, which included scientific lectures and in-depth workshops to leverage applied medical specialties in ophthalmology and optics, exchange knowledge and expertise, and help change perspectives on the best ways to improve patient outcomes. It also discussed treatment and management methods of these prevalent diseases. In his lecture, Dr. Mattias Iglicki, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Vitreoretinal Surgeon and Researcher from University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, praised the convening of this meeting, which is a good opportunity to discuss the latest advancements and clinical trials in the presence of this elite group of international retinal specialists, along with local experts. He explained that diabetic macular edema, which is often the result of high blood sugar levels in diabetics, accompanied with leaky blood vessels leading to swelling in the retina. On the other hand, retinal vein occlusion occurs when the retinal veins are blocked, causing fluid buildup and impaired vision. Both conditions are serious and require proactive management to prevent the disease from worsening. Dr. Iglicki emphasized that organizing such medical summits and conferences serves as a platform for sharing and disseminating the cutting-edge research and developments in treating eye diseases, especially DME and RVO, which are diseases whose rates are increasing with the increasing incidence of diabetes. This enables the attending ophthalmologists to implement these updates in their practices, which in turn advances treatment methods in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in accordance with the latest international recommendations and technologies, thus improving the lives of patients and alleviating their daily suffering. For his part, Dr. Ashraf Daoud, General Manager of AbbVie Saudi Arabia, pointed out that Saudi Arabia's hosting of such medical meetings and seminars reflects the Kingdom's interest in promoting medical education and exchanging scientific expertise between international and local physicians to highlight the most important scientific and medical developments and provide distinguished medical care. By organizing this congress, AbbVie underscores its commitment to enhancing patient outcomes through educational initiatives and collaboration among eye care professionals. Sharing knowledge and expertise at such events is crucial to our ongoing efforts to refine treatment strategies, improve patients' quality of life, and help make a real difference in their lives. About AbbVie AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology, neuroscience, and eye care – and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio.
Zawya
15-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Saudi Arabia hosts landmark ophthalmology meeting to advance DME and RVO treatment
Under the title 'Holistic pro-Inflammatory Target for Sight (HITS)' the Ophthalmology Pivotal Meeting kicked off in Saudi Arabia on April 25, 2025, under the auspices of AbbVie, the global biopharmaceutical research and development company. This is a significant move to elevate the standard of care for various eye conditions like Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) and Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO). More than 100 national and international ophthalmologists participated in the meeting, which included scientific lectures and in-depth workshops to leverage applied medical specialties in ophthalmology and optics, exchange knowledge and expertise, and help change perspectives on the best ways to improve patient outcomes. It also discussed treatment and management methods of these prevalent diseases. In his lecture, Dr. Mattias Iglicki, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Vitreoretinal Surgeon and Researcher from University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, praised the convening of this meeting, which is a good opportunity to discuss the latest advancements and clinical trials in the presence of this elite group of international retinal specialists, along with local experts. He explained that diabetic macular edema, which is often the result of high blood sugar levels in diabetics, accompanied with leaky blood vessels leading to swelling in the retina. On the other hand, retinal vein occlusion occurs when the retinal veins are blocked, causing fluid buildup and impaired vision. Both conditions are serious and require proactive management to prevent the disease from worsening. Dr. Iglicki emphasized that organizing such medical summits and conferences serves as a platform for sharing and disseminating the cutting-edge research and developments in treating eye diseases, especially DME and RVO, which are diseases whose rates are increasing with the increasing incidence of diabetes. This enables the attending ophthalmologists to implement these updates in their practices, which in turn advances treatment methods in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in accordance with the latest international recommendations and technologies, thus improving the lives of patients and alleviating their daily suffering. For his part, Dr. Ashraf Daoud, General Manager of AbbVie Saudi Arabia, pointed out that Saudi Arabia's hosting of such medical meetings and seminars reflects the Kingdom's interest in promoting medical education and exchanging scientific expertise between international and local physicians to highlight the most important scientific and medical developments and provide distinguished medical care. By organizing this congress, AbbVie underscores its commitment to enhancing patient outcomes through educational initiatives and collaboration among eye care professionals. Sharing knowledge and expertise at such events is crucial to our ongoing efforts to refine treatment strategies, improve patients' quality of life, and help make a real difference in their lives. About AbbVie AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology, neuroscience, and eye care – and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at Follow @abbvie on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Angelini Ventures Invests into $39 Million Series A Extension Round for Therini Bio, a Clinical Stage Company Developing Fibrin-targeting Immunotherapies for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Angelini Ventures joins top-tier investor syndicate Investment will fund Phase 1b studies evaluating Therini Bio's lead candidate, THN391, for the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), as well as support development of a fibrin/VEGF bispecific Investment demonstrates Angelini's continued strategic focus in neurodegenerative disease Rome, Italy, 14 May 2025 – Angelini Ventures, the corporate venture firm of Angelini Industries focused on investing in companies developing innovative solutions in BioTech and Digital Health, today announces its participation in a $39 million extension of the Series A financing round for Therini Bio, a US-based clinical-stage biotech company developing fibrin-targeting immunotherapies for neurodegenerative diseases driven by vascular dysfunction. Angelini Ventures joins a syndicate of top-tier international healthcare investors in Therini Bio, including new investor Apollo Health Ventures and existing investors SV Health Investors' Biotech Fund and the Dementia Discovery Fund, Dolby Family Ventures, Eli Lilly and Company, Foundation for a Better World, MRL Ventures Fund and Sanofi Ventures. This latest close brings the total raised by Therini Bio, in its Series A round – first announced in April 2023 – to $75 million. This investment builds on Angelini Ventures' expertise in neurodegeneration, following its recent investments in Neumirna Therapeutics and Arclight Therapeutics. The funds raised by Therini Bio through its extended Series A financing will enable the company to advance Phase 1b studies evaluating its lead candidate, THN391, a potential first-in-class monoclonal antibody designed to selectively block fibrin-mediated neuroinflammation, for the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), as well as support development of a fibrin/VEGF bispecific. Thomas Thestrup, Ph.D., Senior Principal at Angelini Ventures and deal lead, said 'We are proud to support Therini Bio's mission to address the underlying vascular and inflammatory drivers of neurodegenerative disease through a truly novel approach. As an active investor in companies developing next-generation treatments for neurodegenerative and other CNS disorders, we are excited about Therini Bio's first-in-class selective antibody therapy targeting fibrin-mediated inflammation, offering a groundbreaking path to transform the treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer's and Diabetic Macular Edema.' Fabrizio Calisti, M.D., Medical Director at Angelini Ventures, will join Therini Bio's Board of Directors as a Board Observer. Tara Nickerson, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Therini Bio, said 'We are deeply grateful to partner with such a distinguished investor group, both new and old. Their support enables us to significantly advance our shared vision of delivering patients a rational, innovative approach to potentially treat their debilitating conditions, including AD and DME. We look forward to advancing the Phase 1b trials to demonstrate the benefit of this novel mechanism in patients.' Notes to EditorsAbout Angelini Ventures Angelini Ventures, the venture capital arm of Angelini Industries, is a Series A and Series B investment firm focused on accelerating disruptive innovations and trends in BioTech and Digital Health. Angelini Ventures will invest €300 million across a global portfolio in Europe and North America, drawing on a global team, strategic advisors and partners to help entrepreneurs scale their businesses into transformative category-leading companies. To date, Angelini Ventures has invested around €100 million into 18 companies covering a range of therapeutic areas and modalities. Angelini Ventures' BioTech portfolio includes Nuevocor, Neumirna, Cour Pharmaceuticals, Nouscom, Pretzel Therapeutics and Freya Biosciences. The Company's Digital Health portfolio includes Vantis Health, Avation, Cadence Neuroscience, Nobi, Noctrix and Serenis. About Angelini Industries Angelini Industries is a multinational industrial group founded in Ancona in 1919 by Francesco Angelini. Today, Angelini Industries represents a solid and diversified industrial reality that employs approximately 5,800 employees and operates in 21 countries around the world with revenues of over two billion euros, generated in the health, industrial technology and consumer goods sectors. A targeted investment strategy for growth, constant commitment to research and development, deep knowledge of markets and business sectors, make Angelini Industries one of the Italian companies of excellence in the sectors in which it About Therini Bio Therini Bio is a clinical-stage biotech company developing immunotherapies for neuroinflammation in diseases driven by vascular dysfunction. Therini is developing a pipeline of potential first-in-class therapies selectively targeting toxic fibrin accumulation for diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and Diabetic Macular Edema, where destructive neuroinflammation plays a central role in the disease process. Therini Bio's top-tier syndicate of life sciences investors includes the Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation, Angelini Ventures, Apollo Health Ventures, SV Health Investors' Biotech Fund and Dementia Discovery Fund, Dolby Family Ventures, Dreavent Biotech Investments, Eli Lilly and Company, Foundation for a Better World, MRL Ventures Fund, the therapeutics-focused corporate venture fund of Merck & Co., Inc., and Sanofi Ventures. For more information, visit ContactsAngelini VenturesMartina Palmese, Communications Media contacts for Italy - SEC Newgate ItaliaDaniele Pinosa, Tel. +39 3357233872Fausta Tagliarini; Tel. +39 3476474513Daniele Murgia; Tel. +39 3384330031 Media contacts outside Italy - MEDiSTRAVA Sylvie Berrebi, Sandi Greenwood, Mark Swallowangeliniventures@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
