Neurotech implant technology is one interesting approach in the local drug delivery of drugs for the eye. CNTF cannot be delivered non-invasively through the sclera, mostly due to its size (+/- 65kDa) and needs frequent injections when delivered intravitreally due to its short half-life. Also, intravitreal administration is not adapted for the content of CNTF shall be precisely controlled (toxic to the retina at high doses).
I'll be cautious on 3 items related to the Neurotech's approach:
1. Eventhough CNTF showed its efficacy to rescue photoreceptors in several genetics and retinal degeneration models, its effect depends on the animal specie and hard to transpose from one specie to another. A recent publication in Molecular vision from Beltran et al in 2005 states that its mechanism of action is still not fully understood.
2. For the same reason, we don't know the long term effect of CNTF exposure on retinal cells. Some suspect morphological changes that could affect their activity.
3. Last, when Neurotech PR states "sustained period of time", you should read that the implant has a half-life of only 1 year, which means that the implant (6mm long, eye's outside diameter is 24) will have to be surgically replaced every year, with all the associated risks.
I think the phase II will be initiated on a small subgroup of dry form of AMD. Also, while they worked on Retinitis pigmentosa in phase I, interesting orphan market that simplifies the regulatory approach for the issues above, why change to dry AMD ? I learned to be cautious with that company that was planning back in 2001 to file an IND mid-2002, initiated end of 2003 and just finished end of 2005 (10 patients !).
thanks Dew for remembering me after all this time, I am still reading but I don't have enough time to post, unfortunatly
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