New preclinical data demonstrate NCX 667’s robust IOP lowering properties
Sophia Antipolis, France
Nicox S.A. (Euronext Paris: FR0013018124, COX), the international ophthalmic R&D company, today announced that preclinical results from its novel nitric oxide (NO) donating compound, NCX 667, were presented at the Association for Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics (AOPT) 13th Scientific Meeting, held from February 16-19, 2017, in Florence, Italy. NCX 667, synthesized by Nicox, is the lead compound of a new class of next-generation stand-alone NO-donors, which are designed to optimize NO dosing and enable intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering in patients with open angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension.
The AOPT 2017 abstract by Impagnatiello et al1 presented preclinical results obtained with NCX 667 in rabbit and non-human primate models of ocular hypertension and glaucoma following single and repeated treatment schedules. NCX 667 appeared to lower IOP by 20% or more regardless of the specific model and animal species used. Furthermore, repeated acute dosing of NCX 667 elicits sustained IOP-lowering activity over time with no signs of tachyphylaxis or ocular discomfort.
Data from a variety of experimental animal models coupled with recent clinical studies strongly support an important role of NO in lowering IOP by enhancing aqueous humor drainage via the conventional outflow route.
Open angle glaucoma is a common ocular disorder affecting ∼2% of the adult population over 40 years old and is the second-leading cause of blindness worldwide2.
About NCX 667
Developed by Nicox, NCX 667 already demonstrated promising preclinical results in two preclinical models of ocular hypertension and glaucoma. In both models, NCX 667 appeared well-tolerated and effective in reducing intra-ocular pressure (IOP). These results were selected by the ARVO 2015 Annual Meeting Program Committee as a ‘Hot Topic’, as representing the newest and most innovative research being conducted.
Notes:
1. NCX 667, a lead nitric oxide (NO)-donating compound for a new class of ocular hypotensive agents F. Impagnatiello1, E. Bastia1, N. Almirante1, C. Toris2, C. Lanzi3, E. Ongini1, E. Masini3, M.V.W Bergamini4 1Nicox Research Institute, Milan, Italy; 2Department of Ophthalmology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; 3Department of NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; 4Nicox Ophthalmics, Inc., Fort Worth, TX, USA
2. Glaucoma, Open-angle – https://nei.nih.gov/eyedata/glaucoma, accessed February 13, 2017