As I’ve discussed before, my company Acucela’s research and use of Visual Cycle Modulation, or “VCM”, is aiming to develop an effective and well-tolerated treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration, or “dry AMD.” In addition to dry AMD, we are also working to develop new treatments for patients suffering from other debilitating retinal disorders, including diabetic retinopathy.
As the most common diabetic eye disease, diabetic retinopathy is a precarious condition that can develop with no vision related symptoms for years. But, diabetic retinopathy should not be ignored as it can quickly become more severe, resulting in vision loss. While our ACU-4429 compound for the treatment of dry AMD continues to advance in its clinical trials, Acucela is also working in the preclinical setting to develop ACU-4429 as an oral pill to be taken to address diabetic retinopathy. This could be an exciting development as it would offer patients an alternative to eye surgery.
Stay tuned – I will continue to keep you posted on our progress!
