Azura Ophthalmics Secures Grant to Evaluate AZR-MD-001 for Improved Vision Quality Related to Contac
Summary
The grant will support Azuras two-stage study evaluating the safety, tolerability and efficacy of the companys lead clinical candidate, AZR-MD-001, in patients with contact lens discomfort (CLD) who show evidence of Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).We are excited to be awarded this CUREator grant and believe it further serves to validate our differentiated approach of combining ophthalmologic and dermatologic solutions to exploit the properties of keratolytics to treat the root cause of contact lens discomfort and other ocular surface indications, said Marc Gleeson, CEO of Azura Ophthalmics. The use of contact lenses can stress the tear film, resulting in instability and alterations of the lipid layer, and can cause symptoms to unexpectedly manifest in patients with mild MGD who are otherwise asymptomatic.6 There are currently no approved pharmacologic treatments for CLD and there are no treatments available that can significantly improve the debilitating symptoms associated with CLD such as blurred, fluctuating vision and discomfort.Azuras lead clinical-stage drug candidate, AZR-MD-001, is a topical ointment that has been developed to yield properties ideal for ophthalmic use. Our differentiated approach combines ophthalmologic and dermatologic solutions to exploit the unique properties of keratolytics to treat the root cause of numerous underserved ocular indications. Led by our clinical-stage program, initially focused on resolving the signs and dramatically improving the symptoms of Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), our internally developed pipeline addresses the full spectrum of lid margin and ocular surface diseases. Stapleton F, Tan J, Jia T, DrPuy V, Gleeson M and Bosworth C. The effect of a novel sulfide-containing topical treatment on ocular signs and symptoms in symptomatic contact lens wearers: an exploratory study.