EncorStat™

EncorStat is a gene-based treatment for the prevention of corneal graft rejection. Corneal grafting arises from a need to remove and replace pathology arising in the cornea causing 'clouding'. Although one of the most successfully transplanted tissues, a significant number of grafts are rejected due to vascularisation. EncorStat uses the Company's LentiVector system to deliver the same genetic payload as RetinoStat, endostatin and angiostatin, but differs in the way gene expression is controlled, in order to block vascularisation and to prevent graft rejection. EncorStat is designed for ex vivo treatment of donor corneas prior to transplant.

Preclinical development

EncorStat has demonstrated prolonged efficacy in preclinical models of corneal grafting that have a high risk of rejection. Further preclinical optimisation studies are ongoing.

Sanofi-aventis collaboration

Oxford BioMedica entered a collaboration with sanofi-aventis in April 2009 to develop four LentiVector-based products for the treatment of ocular diseases, including EncorStat. Oxford BioMedica is responsible for preclinical development and for conducting initial Phase I/II studies. Under the joint development plan, the companies aim to advance EncorStat into Phase I/II development in 2011.

Market opportunity

Approximately 60,000 corneal transplants are performed in the USA and EU each year. There are currently no treatments available to prevent corneal graft rejection.