Clinical Report: Isarna Reports Antisense Therapy Trial Data
Overview
Isarna Therapeutics has reported promising results from its phase 2 BETTER trial of ISTH0036, an antisense therapy targeting TGF-β2 in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME). The treatment demonstrated stable or improved vision and reduced central retinal thickness, indicating potential for further development in retinal diseases.
Background
The management of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME) remains a significant challenge in ophthalmology, with current therapies primarily focusing on anti-VEGF agents. The BETTER trial introduces ISTH0036, which targets TGF-β2, a cytokine implicated in fibrosis, presenting a novel approach to address an unmet need in these conditions. Understanding the efficacy and safety of such therapies is crucial for advancing treatment options.
Data Highlights
| Outcome | Results |
|---|---|
| Vision Stability/Improvement | Observed in patients receiving ISTH0036 |
| Central Retinal Thickness | Reduction noted |
| Fibrotic Tissue Volume | Decreased in nAMD with fibrosis |
| Intraretinal Fluid | Reduced in DME patients |
| Tolerability | No elevation in intraocular pressure |
Key Findings
- ISTH0036 showed stable or improved vision in nAMD and DME patients.
- Reduction in central retinal thickness was observed with ISTH0036 treatment.
- Decreased fibrotic tissue volume in nAMD patients receiving ISTH0036.
- DME patients experienced reduced intraretinal fluid, regardless of prior treatment.
- The treatment was well tolerated with no reported increase in intraocular pressure.
Clinical Implications
The findings from the BETTER trial suggest that ISTH0036 may offer a new therapeutic avenue for patients with nAMD and DME, particularly those with fibrotic complications. Clinicians should consider the potential of TGF-β2-targeting therapies in their treatment strategies as further studies are planned.
Conclusion
The BETTER trial results indicate that ISTH0036 could be a promising candidate for addressing fibrosis in retinal diseases, warranting further investigation in larger trials. Continued exploration of this treatment may enhance management options for patients with nAMD and DME.
References
- Isarna Therapeutics, Ophthalmology Management, 2025 -- Isarna Therapeutics Reports Positive Phase 2 Results for Antisense Therapy at ARVO
- Atsena Reports LIGHTHOUSE data at ARVO, Retinal Physician, 2025 -- Atsena Reports LIGHTHOUSE data at ARVO
- SUBSPECIALTY NEWS, Retinal Physician, 2022 -- FDA approves Cimerli, GATHER2 GA trial meets primary endpoint, and more.
- AAO Preferred Practice Pattern, University of Miami -- AAO Preferred Practice Pattern
- Intravitreal Aflibercept 8 mg in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration, ScienceDirect -- Ninety-Six-Week Results from the Randomized Phase 3 PULSAR Trial
- Retinal Physician — Atsena Reports LIGHTHOUSE data at ARVO
- AAO Preferred Practice Pattern - University of Miami
- Intravitreal Aflibercept 8 mg in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Ninety-Six-Week Results from the Randomized Phase 3 PULSAR Trial - ScienceDirect
- Fibrosis in neovascular age-related macular degeneration: A review of definitions based on clinical imaging - ScienceDirect
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