Novartis acquires Gyroscope Therapeutics and with it GT 005 a proposed treatment for geographic atrophy.

Geographic atrophy (GA) is an advanced form of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that leads to progressive and irreversible vision loss. There are no approved treatments for GA, making it one of the most significant unmet needs remaining in retinal diseases. GT 005 is designed as an AAV2-based, one-time investigational gene therapy for GA secondary to AMD that is delivered under the retina. GT 005 aims to restore balance to an overactive complement system, a part of the immune system, by increasing production of the CFI protein. Complement overactivation can lead to inflammation that damages healthy tissues, and it has been strongly correlated with the development and progression of AMD. The CFI protein regulates the activity of the complement system. It is believed that increasing CFI production could reduce inflammation, with the goal of preserving a person’s eyesight. The safety and efficacy of GT 005 for the treatment of GA secondary to AMD is currently being evaluated in a Phase 1/II clinical trial and two Phase II clinical trials. GT 005 has received Fast Track designation from the FDA for the treatment of people with GA.Gyroscope also has several additional assets in its pipeline in early discovery for retinal diseases.