Bayer HealthCare announces VEGF Trap-Eye results

Bayer HealthCare and Regeneron have announced the results of a phase II extension study of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) Trap-Eye in patients with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

VEGF is a protein that occurs naturally in the body which triggers the formation of new blood vessels to support the growth of organs and body tissues.

A fully-human soluble VEGF receptor fusion protein, VEGF Trap-EYE binds all forms of VEGF-A.

In the trial, patients received the drugs on an as-needed dosing schedule and achieved durable improvement in vision over a full-year period.

Patients showed significant improvements both the primary and secondary improvements of retinal thickness and vision gain respectively.

Full analysis of the study results will be presented at the annual meeting of the Retina Society on September 26th-28th in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Dr Kemal Malik, member of the Bayer HealthCare executive committee responsible for product development, said: “The 52-week results underline that VEGF Trap-Eye has the potential to significantly reduce retinal thickness and improve vision.”

He added the continued development of this compound is important for the millions of people worldwide who suffer from wet AMD.

In May 2008, Bayer and Regeneron announced the start of an additional phase III study for VEGF Trap-Eye as a treatment for the condition.