Cognition Therapeutics announced topline results from its Phase 2 MAGNIFY trial of zervimesine, an oral drug for geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD). The trial, concluded early after enrolling approximately 100 of the planned 246 participants, showed zervimesine slowed GA lesion growth by 28.6% and reduced lesion size by 28.2% at 18 months compared to placebo. This builds on previous Phase 2 trial data suggesting zervimesine’s potential in slowing disease progression in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies.
These findings are potentially impactful for the dry AMD treatment landscape. Currently, approved treatments for GA associated with dry AMD involve intravitreal injections, requiring regular clinic visits. A readily available, effective oral medication like zervimesine could significantly improve patient access to treatment and convenience. This is particularly crucial for those who may not be suitable candidates for injectable therapies. Furthermore, zervimesine’s potential as a monotherapy or in combination with existing treatments may offer physicians greater flexibility in personalizing treatment strategies.
The MAGNIFY trial measured GA lesion changes in terms of both growth rate and size. A slope analysis demonstrated a 28.6% reduction in GA growth rate among zervimesine-treated participants. At the 18-month mark, these participants exhibited a 28.2% smaller mean lesion size compared to the placebo group. Roughly two-thirds of participants completed 12 months of dosing, while one-third completed the full 18 months. Further analysis of safety, demographic, visual, and anatomical outcomes is underway, with plans to present complete findings at a future medical conference. Cognition’s decision to conclude the MAGNIFY trial early allows the company to concentrate resources on ongoing programs in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies.
Zervimesine’s consistent positive signals across multiple neurodegenerative diseases suggest a promising therapeutic avenue. Its potential to address unmet needs in dry AMD, specifically offering a less invasive treatment option, could reshape the management of this prevalent condition. While further research and development are needed, these results position zervimesine as a potential game-changer, pending further trials and regulatory approval, and highlight the importance of exploring its therapeutic utility across a spectrum of degenerative disorders.
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.
