Ophthalmology

Imagine going from near-total blindness to seeing the world in a whole new light – literally. That’s the reality for some participants in a recent gene therapy trial for LCA1, where vision improvements ranged from a 100-fold increase to a 10,000-fold jump. LCA1 (Leber Congenital Amaurosis 1) is a type of Leber Congenital Amaurosis that…

An original investigation published in JAMA Ophthalmology indicated that the megablockbuster metabolic medication Wegovy (semaglutide) may increase the risk of a serious eye condition. The research, published on Wednesday, examined the occurrence of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) in patients taking semaglutide. The GLP-1 receptor agonists Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus, all containing the active…

As the year draws to a close, it is clear that molecular science and diagnostics is the hottest funding area in the biotech industry. In an analysis of 50 of the best-funded biotechs of 2023 focused on human health, molecular and science and diagnostics startups collectively attracting roughly $945 million, dwarfing the figures in other…

Astellas Pharma, the second largest Japanese pharma firm after Takeda, plans on scooping up the biopharma Iveric Bio for roughly $1.7 billion. Iveric focuses on discovering and developing novel therapies for retinal diseases, for approximately $1.7 billion. Astellas believes the acquisition of Iveric Bio will strengthen its standing in the ophthalmology market, by adding the…

As part of its ongoing restructuring efforts, Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS) is reportedly considering selling its ophthalmology and respiratory businesses, according to Bloomberg. Private equity firms are reportedly sizing up the business units. According to the company’s website, its core therapeutic areas are cardiovascular, hematology, solid tumors, immunology and neuroscience. Novartis’s ophthalmology division focuses on various therapies…