First Patient Enrolled into U.S. Phase 3 Neurotrophic Keratitis Clinical Trial with RGN-259
On April 13, 2023, RegeneRx Biopharmaceuticals (OTCQB: RGRX) announced the enrollment of the first patient in its Phase 3 clinical trial (SEER-2) for RGN-259, aimed at treating neurotrophic keratitis (NK). The trial, conducted by ReGenTree, involves over 70 NK patients and will focus on achieving complete corneal healing.
RGN-259, containing thymosin beta 4, has shown promise in previous studies, with significant efficacy in an earlier trial involving 18 patients. The company is conducting two simultaneous trials (SEER-2 and SEER-3) to expedite the approval process. The U.S. market for NK treatment includes about 20,000 patients annually. If successful, RGN-259 could present a substantial opportunity, especially considering the only existing treatment, Oxervate, is among the costliest in the U.S.
- Enrollment of the first patient in the Phase 3 trial (SEER-2) for RGN-259 demonstrates significant progress.
- Previous trials indicate potential efficacy for RGN-259 in treating neurotrophic keratitis.
- Simultaneous trials (SEER-2 and SEER-3) could accelerate the clinical development timeline.
- Regulatory hurdles exist, as two independent trials are required for market approval.
- Previous trials involved a small sample size (18 patients), raising concerns about the generalizability of results.
Clinical results in patients with NK treated with RGN-259 have previously demonstrated efficacy in a small number of patients (18) in the first phase 3 clinical trial (SEER-1), and two clinical trials are underway simultaneously in
Two independent clinical trials showing statistically significant safety and efficacy are required for marketing approval in the
RGN-259, whose active ingredient is thymosin beta 4 (Tβ4), is a novel drug candidate that promotes cell migration, anti-inflammation, and wound healing. RGN-259 is formulated as a sterile, preservative-free eyedrop and has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated.
Neurotrophic keratitis offers a relatively large market opportunity as a rare disease with about 20,000 patients a year in
Regarding the clinical development of RGN-259 for dry eye syndrome, HLB Therapeutics noted that ReGenTree applied for SPA (Special Protocol Assessment) to the FDA in October of 2022, and has since been closely discussing clinical design, statistical analysis plans, and approval requirements with the FDA. SPA is a system whereby a sponsor consults with FDA in advance on clinical protocols and statistical analysis plans to increase the possibility of new drug approval. According to HLB, its strategy is to increase clinical design completeness and reduce uncertainty in the future as it believes RGN-259 will be an important clinical product for dry eye treatment given its past clinical results.
Forward-Looking Statements
Any statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements made under the provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to be materially different from historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. This press release has been prepared based on information provided primarily by HLB Therapeutics. Forward-looking statements in this press release include but are not limited to statements from us, our partners, or within research published by the Company or unaffiliated third parties. There can be no assurance that any proposed clinical trials will be initiated, completed, or confirm previous results. There can also be no assurance that any of the Company's drug candidates will result in any approved products in the
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