Janssen acquires HMR59 from Hemera for geographic atrophy treatment

Janssen Pharmaceuticals has secured the rights to an innovative gene therapy, HMR59, for the treatment of geographic atrophy, a severe form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This move signals a major advancement in treating a condition that has long lacked effective therapies. Hemera Biosciences, a clinical-stage ocular gene therapy company, has entered into a licensing agreement with Janssen, though the financial details remain undisclosed. HMR59 is a promising investigational gene therapy designed to provide a one-time outpatient solution to help preserve vision in patients suffering from geographic atrophy.

Geographic atrophy is a particularly debilitating condition. As a late-stage form of dry AMD, it leads to progressive damage to the retina, specifically to the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision. When left untreated, it can result in permanent blindness. In those affected by AMD, the protein CD59, which protects retinal cells, is often found in low levels. This leaves the retina vulnerable to damage caused by overactive immune responses, specifically from the complement system. HMR59 seeks to address this by enhancing the retina’s ability to produce a soluble form of CD59, thereby halting or slowing the damage.

Currently, there are no approved therapies specifically for geographic atrophy, and treatment options are limited to supportive care such as low vision aids or vitamins. As a result, many patients with this condition face a future without viable therapeutic options. HMR59 offers a potentially game-changing solution by targeting the root causes of the disease at the cellular level.

In a statement, Dr. Adam Rogers, CEO and Founder of Hemera Biosciences, expressed enthusiasm about the deal, acknowledging Janssen’s extensive expertise in pharmaceutical development. He highlighted the significance of this partnership, noting that Janssen’s involvement could help bring HMR59 to a broader patient base, potentially improving outcomes for millions suffering from dry AMD. Dr. Rogers emphasized that the licensing agreement aligns with Hemera’s long-term goal to provide a one-time injection for treating patients with dry AMD.

Janssen, part of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies, is a global leader in pharmaceutical development, known for its commitment to advancing medical innovation. In his remarks, James F. List, Global Therapeutic Area Head at Janssen Research & Development, underscored the importance of the gene therapy. He described geographic atrophy as a devastating condition that impacts many critical daily activities, from reading to driving. With this gene therapy, Janssen aims to intervene early in the disease’s progression, preventing further damage and preserving sight for as long as possible.

The initial clinical data for HMR59 is promising, with a completed Phase 1 study showing favorable outcomes in treating geographic atrophy. The therapy is delivered via an intravitreal injection, a non-invasive procedure that provides patients with the opportunity to avoid the need for frequent visits or complex treatments. Currently, a second Phase 1 trial for wet AMD is underway, assessing the long-term safety of HMR59, with follow-up visits ongoing.

This deal comes at a time when the field of ophthalmology is seeing significant breakthroughs in gene therapy. The potential of such treatments to address previously untreatable conditions could revolutionize care for millions of patients worldwide. Janssen’s involvement ensures that HMR59 has the resources and expertise needed to move forward in the complex world of gene therapy.

As the collaboration progresses, the field of geographic atrophy treatment may see new hope for those suffering from this debilitating disease. Geographic atrophy treatments are crucial, and the introduction of gene therapy for vision could offer a promising path forward in preserving eyesight and improving quality of life for those affected.