Ashvattha Therapeutics secured up to $50 million in extended Series B funding, led by Tribe Capital and existing investors led by Natural Capital. This funding supports the continued development of migaldendranib (MGB), a novel subcutaneous treatment for wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME), currently in Phase 2 trials. Interim results suggest MGB significantly reduces the need for supplemental aflibercept injections after an initial dose, while maintaining visual acuity and reducing subretinal fluid.
This development holds significant promise for patients suffering from wet AMD and DME, debilitating conditions affecting vision. Current treatments require frequent intravitreal injections, placing a considerable burden on patients and healthcare systems. MGB’s potential to reduce the frequency of these injections, while effectively managing the disease, could dramatically improve patients’ quality of life and offer a more practical treatment approach. This less invasive approach could increase treatment adherence, potentially leading to better long-term outcomes and reduced disease progression. Moreover, MGB’s subcutaneous administration makes at-home treatment feasible, further easing the burden on patients and potentially reducing healthcare costs associated with clinic visits.
The Phase 2 trial of MGB involves subcutaneous administration every 2 or 4 weeks for up to 40 weeks following a single intravitreal aflibercept injection. Data from patients who completed 24 weeks show a substantial decrease in required supplemental aflibercept compared to the 24 weeks preceding enrollment. Furthermore, the treatment has demonstrated a positive safety profile. These interim findings will be presented at the Angiogenesis 2025 meeting.
The successful completion of the Phase 2 trial and subsequent progression towards regulatory approval could revolutionize the treatment landscape for wet AMD and DME. A readily accessible and less invasive therapy like MGB could significantly expand treatment access, particularly for those with bilateral disease, a common occurrence in both conditions. This advancement may shift the standard of care towards at-home, patient-administered treatments, improving patient compliance and outcomes while streamlining healthcare delivery.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
