Phase 2b Clinical Study of Safety and Efficacy of Intravitreal Injection of Retinal Progenitor Cells (jCell) for Treatment of Retinitis Pigmentosa

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Grant Award Details

Grant Number:
CLIN2-09698
Investigator(s):
Institution:
Type:
PI

Human Stem Cell Use:
Cell Line Generation:
Award Value:
$8,295,750
Status:
Active

Grant Application Details

Application Title:

Phase 2b Clinical Study of Safety and Efficacy of Intravitreal Injection of Retinal Progenitor Cells (jCell) for Treatment of Retinitis Pigmentosa

Public Abstract:
Therapeutic Candidate or Device

Allogeneic human retinal progenitor cells (hRPC)

Indication

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)

Therapeutic Mechanism

The cells are intended to remain suspended in the vitreous cavity of the eye and exert a beneficial neurotrophic effect on the degenerating retina.

Unmet Medical Need

RP is an incurable orphan disease. There are no treatments currently available other than a retinal chip for very end stage patients. Todate, there is nothing that will restore sight or slow the progression of vision loss in RP. Achieving any measurable benefits would be groundbreaking.

Project Objective

Phase 2 trial completed

Major Proposed Activities

Enrollment of patients in a Phase 2b clinical trial, along with patient follow up and collection of all clinical outcome measures.
Statement of Benefit to California:
RP is a relentless blinding disease with no current treatment. There are an estimated 10,000 patients with RP in California and all are either visually disabled already or expected to become so in time. Most or all these patients will need to receive healthcare benefits, special living assistance, and will also suffer from decreased economic functionality. Treatment for RP would be a medical breakthrough that may lead to treatment for other currently incurable blinding diseases.