Neovascularization, or new blood vessel growth, is a restorative function of the body that assists in healing. When it occurs in the retina, however, it can lead to vision loss. In age-related macular degeneration (AMD) the photoreceptor cells weaken over time. In about 10 to 15 percent of AMD patients, the inflammatory system sends new [Read More]
Category: Research and Developments
Faricimab for wet AMD effective at 16-week intervals
Genentech has announced positive topline results from its Phase III studies, TENAYA and LUCERNE, evaluating its new drug faricimab, for people with wet (neovascular) age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Both studies have shown that people receiving faricimab injections at fixed intervals of up to every 16 weeks achieved visual acuity outcomes as effective as those receiving [Read More]
Looking Forward to 2021
Even the most optimistic person will admit that 2020 was a 365-day slog through dangers, disasters, and disappointments. In a year that offered little relief, considering that its famous number might have been expected to boost our spirits with good news about vision. And that’s why it might help us to look ahead at some [Read More]
Lucentis Substitute In Phase 3 Trials
Samsung Bioepis is reporting first year results from their phase 3 study of a proposed lucentis biosimilar (SB11). A biosimilar is a biological product (derived from a living organism) that shows no clinically meaningful differences from another biologic (eg. Lucentis). This study has shown that, at 52 weeks, primary end points were met for visual [Read More]
Vitamin D3 and Omega-3 Offer No Protection Against AMD
Observational studies have suggested that higher intake or blood levels of vitamin D and marine omega-3 fatty acids may be associated with lower risks of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A recent large randomized trial (VITAL), however, has concluded that supplementation with vitamin D3 and marine omega-3 fatty acids actually had no significant overall effect on [Read More]