MADISON, Miss.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mississippi Retina Associates’ very own Retina Research Institute of Mississippi, proudly announces a groundbreaking milestone in Mississippi medical history: the successful completion of the first-ever retina-specific gene therapy surgery in the state. Spearheaded by our team of renowned surgeons and expert research staff at Mississippi Retina Associates, this landmark procedure marks a significant step forward in the quest to combat retinal diseases through cutting-edge medical innovation.
At the forefront of this historic achievement are Dr. Bryan Propes and Dr. Michael Borne, esteemed leaders in the field of ophthalmology with a combined experience of over 50 years. Their expertise, coupled with Mississippi Retina Associates’ commitment to advancing retinal care and the support and partnership of Retina Consultants of America, has enabled Mississippi to join the ranks of pioneering medical hubs at the forefront of genetic therapy research.
Clinical trials play an indispensable role in our pursuit of medical progress. Through rigorous experimentation and meticulous observation, clinical trials not only validate the safety and efficacy of novel treatments but also pave the way for transformative breakthroughs in patient care. By participating in this clinical trial, Mississippi Retina Associates underscores its unwavering commitment to advancing medicine and unlocking the potential of gene therapy as a revolutionary tool in combating retinal diseases.
The clinical trial is an Ocugen Phase 1/2 study to assess the safety and efficacy of the sterile subretinal administration of OCU410 for Geographic Atrophy (GA) secondary to Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). AMD is an ocular disease which manifests in two forms, Dry AMD and Wet AMD, where macular degeneration occurs. It is the leading cause of blindness globally, affecting almost 200 million people worldwide, and it is the leading cause of irreversible sight loss in adults aged 65 and older in the United States. GA is an advanced stage of Dry AMD that affects nearly 1 million people in the US and 5 million people worldwide, with its prevalence increasing exponentially with age. It leads to progressive and irreversible loss of visual function due to the growth of atrophic lesions that destroy the retinal cells responsible for vision.
AMD is a complex disease with various genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors influencing its development and progression. By researching and developing novel and innovative interventions for AMD, physicians can deepen their understanding of the disease mechanisms, paving the way for more effective treatments and preventative strategies for related conditions. Our physicians are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of their patients. Their participation in this trial is exemplary of their commitment to provide their patients with the best possible care and outcomes for individuals affected by this debilitating condition.
"We are thrilled to pioneer gene therapy in retinal care here in Mississippi," says Dr. Michael J. Borne, reflecting on the significance of this achievement. "By embracing innovation and pushing the boundaries of medical science, we are not only transforming patient lives but also shaping the future of retinal care on a global scale."
Mississippi Retina Associates remains steadfast in its dedication to pushing the boundaries of possibility, harnessing the power of research, and championing the transformative potential of gene therapy in retinal care. As we embark on this groundbreaking journey, we invite patients, researchers, and industry partners alike to join us in our mission to redefine the standard of care and pave the way for a brighter, more hopeful future.
More information about this study may be found by visiting https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06018558.
