Tell me more about KIO-301.
KIO-301 is a visible light-sensitive small molecule (called a “molecular photoswitch”) designed as a reversible photoswitch to restore the eye’s ability to perceive and interpret light in visually impaired RP patients. (via)
How does it work?
KIO-301 selectively enters retinal ganglion cells to “switch” them into light-sensing cells, which signal the brain to the presence/absence of visible light.
Give me some study details.
The ABACUS trial is enrolling six patients (12 eyes) diagnosed with RP divided into two cohorts. The first will assess three patients with no or bare light perception due to RP progression, while the second will assess three patients who can detect hand motion and count fingers. (via)
What are they evaluating?
The trial’s primary endpoints include safety and tolerability; secondary endpoints include objective identification, contrast assessment, navigational, functional, and other ophthalmic and quality-of-life assessments.
What’s next?
Kiora plans on completing the first two cohorts by the end of Q1 2023.