Life Biosciences Highlights Nonhuman Primate Study Progress on Epigenetic Reprogramming at AAO

Life Biosciences, a biotechnology firm specializing in cellular rejuvenation technologies, has unveiled promising new data at the 2024 American Association of Ophthalmology (AAO) Annual Meeting. The event, held in Chicago, Illinois from October 18-21, 2024, showcased findings that replicate prior data and provide deeper insights into the therapeutic potential of ER-100, a novel gene therapy aimed at improving retinal health and visual function.

ER-100, an innovative epigenetic reprogramming gene therapy that includes the transcription factors Oct-4, Sox-2, and Klf-4 (OSK), was administered to nonhuman primates (NHPs) mimicking nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This therapy was given through a single intravitreal injection coupled with daily systemic doxycycline. The study confirmed the presence of these transcription factors in specific cells within the perifoveal region of the treated NHPs, suggesting targeted delivery and action of ER-100.

The research demonstrated that ER-100 considerably mitigated deficits in both pattern electroretinogram and axon density measures in NHPs, whether administered as a preventive or rescue treatment. These findings underscore the therapy's capacity to target retinal ganglion cells and prevent visual function deterioration in cases of NAION.

Life Biosciences is on course to commence its first human clinical trials for ER-100 in optic neuropathies by the latter half of 2025. Sharon Rosenzweig-Lipson, Ph.D., the Chief Scientific Officer at Life Biosciences, emphasized the potential of partial epigenetic reprogramming to restore visual function in individuals suffering from optic neuropathies like NAION and glaucoma. She noted that the new data not only replicate previous findings but also enhance the understanding of the effective dosing and timing of ER-100 relative to the onset of optic nerve damage.

Life Biosciences is dedicated to developing groundbreaking cellular rejuvenation platforms to combat diseases associated with aging and injuries, ultimately aiming to restore health. The company focuses on two primary platforms: epigenetic reprogramming and chaperone-mediated autophagy. These platforms are designed to rejuvenate cells to a more youthful state, offering the potential to prevent, treat, or even reverse various aging-related conditions.