Luxa Biotechnology, a joint venture between Y2 Solution Co. Ltd. and the Neural Stem Cell Institute (NSCI), has received a $4 million grant from the California Institute for Regeneration Medicine (CIRM) to support the ongoing Phase 1/2a study of RPESC-RPE-4W transplantation for the treatment of dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD). The funding will accelerate manufacturing and clinical activities based in California.
 
RPESC-RPE-4W is a cell product derived from adult retinal pigment epithelial stem cells (RPESC) that generate retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) cell progeny (RPESC-RPE). Transplantation of progenitor-stage RPESC-RPE cells obtained after four weeks of differentiation (RPESC-RPE-4W) effectively replace the native RPE cells lost during AMD disease progression.
 
“We are honored to have CIRM recognize the potential of our unique technology utilizing precursor-stage RPE cells. Replacement of lost RPE cells with RPESC-RPE-4W aims to restore vision loss in patients with dry AMD and offers the potential to improve the quality of life,” said Jeffrey Stern, PhD, MD, co-founder of the NSCI.
 
Dry AMD is a common eye disorder in people over 50. It is caused by the deterioration of the cells of the macula, as retinal cells die off and are not renewed. The condition results in reduced central vision and there are currently no treatments available to reverse the damage.
 
“RPESC-RPE-4W therapy represents a potential breakthrough in the treatment of dry AMD,” said Dr. Abla Creasey, PhD, Vice President of Therapeutics Development at CIRM. “We are impressed with the stem cell-based replacement approach developed by Luxa Biotechnology and delighted to support their groundbreaking efforts to restore vision and hope to patients with dry AMD.”