Oyster Point Introduces ETF Gene Therapy, First Candidate to Target Neurotrophic Keratopathy

Oyster Point Pharma Inc OYST has announced the expansion of its pipeline with the introduction of Enriched Tear Film (ETF) Gene Therapy and proof-of-concept in vivo study results from its first gene therapy candidate, OC-101.
Oyster Point's investigational drug, OC-01 (varenicline) nasal spray, a highly selective cholinergic agonist, may play a role in ocular surface diseases.
Proof-of-concept in vivo study showed statistically significant levels of human NGF protein being expressed within the lacrimal gland and tear film of a rabbit model compared to control.
NGF is a well-characterized neurotropic protein that plays a critical role in developing sympathetic and some sensory neurons in the peripheral nervous system.
hNGF was secreted into the tear film as early as Day 7. No control animals showed evidence of hNGF in the lacrimal gland or tear film.
Additionally, OC-01 nasal spray resulted in statistically significant increases in hNGF expression in the tear film compared to pre-cholinergic stimulation levels, and compared to control.
No macroscopic or microscopic safety findings were observed.
The company plans to meet with the FDA for a pre-IND meeting to discuss the development of OC-101 for patients with Stage 2 and Stage 3 neurotrophic keratopathy.
Price Action: OYST shares are down 0.08% at $17.93 during the market session on the last check Thursday.