AgeisBio’s initial focus is on dry Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) indications. Both AMD and DR are complex, multifactorial diseases involving multiple pathological processes. Despite numerous attempts to achieve neuroprotection, many clinical studies have not been successful. We believe targeting multiple pathways simultaneously will achieve a clinical effect that prevents vision loss. 

Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is characterized by the thinning of the macula, part of the retina responsible for clear vision. Patients can slowly lose central vision, making it more difficult to retain independence.  

Approximately 11 million in the US and 288 million people worldwide are estimated to be affected by AMD in 2040 (up from 196 million in 2020). Dry AMD accounts for 85-90% of the total AMD population.  Unfortunately, there is no medical treatment for dry AMD. The economic burden of vision loss is estimated at $134 billion, with $99 billion in direct costs and $35 billion in indirect costs. 

Diabetic Retinopathy 

Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a major complication of diabetes mellitus, where damaged blood vessels in the retina lead to vision impairment. DR is the leading cause of blindness in working adults, causing 12,000 - 24,000 new cases each year in the US. Approximately 10 million people had DR and 2 million had vision-threatening DR in the US in 2021. Globally, approximately 93 million people are affected by DR.

Diabetes retinopathy management includes anti-VEGF injections, surgery, and laser treatment.  Although these treatments do not undo existing damage to the vision, they can stop or delay further vision loss.   DR consumes approximately 40% of the total cost of diabetes care in the US, amounting to an annual  economic burden of $120 billion including losses from worker productivity.  

Our Commitment

These significant unmet needs drive our commitment to developing neuroprotective therapies to slow progression of the retinal diseases and preserve vision for patients. We are dedicated to creating a small molecule drug that serves as neuroprotection for the retina, thereby impacting those suffering from AMD and diabetic retinopathy and reducing the economic and societal burden of vision loss.

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1. National Eye Institute. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) updated June 2021.

2.  Wong WL et al.  Global prevalence of age-related macular degeneration and disease burden projection for 2020 and 2040: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Glob Health. 2014 Epub 2014 Jan 3. PMID: 25104651.

3.  Rein et al.  The Economic Burden of Vision Loss and Blindness in the United States. The American Academy of Ophthalmology.  Volume 129, Number 4, April 2022.

4. Lundeen EA et al. Prevalence of Diabetic Retinopathy in the US in 2021. JAMA Opthalmology Jun 2023.

5. Mansour et al. The Evolving Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy.  Clin Ophthalmol, Apr 2020.