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LONDON - Beacon Therapeutics has released interim data from its Phase II DAWN trial, indicating that its lead program, laru-zova, shows potential in improving vision for patients with X-linked retinitis pigmentosa (XLRP). The findings were presented at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) 2025 Annual Meeting held from May 4-8.
The six-month data from the trial suggests that patients experienced enhancements in key visual function measures, such as low luminance visual acuity (LLVA) and mean sensitivity, as measured by microperimetry. These improvements were observed in the study eyes compared to the fellow eyes that were previously treated, indicating a sustained positive effect of the therapy.
In terms of safety, laru-zova was generally well-tolerated, with most ocular treatment-emergent adverse events being non-serious and resolving after the required surgical procedures and steroids. There were no reported cases of unexpected serious adverse reactions, retinal detachments, or inflammation inside the eye.
The DAWN trial is an open-label study assessing the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of two dose levels of laru-zova in participants with XLRP who had previously received gene therapy targeting the RPGR protein. The trial aims to provide data to support the ongoing Phase II/III VISTA trial.
XLRP is a disease that often results in blindness by middle age and is currently without treatment options. Laru-zova, a gene therapy, is designed to restore the function of both rods and cones in the eye by delivering a functional copy of the RPGRORF15 gene.
The interim results from the DAWN trial mark a capital access milestone for Beacon, as defined by Syncona Ltd, the life science investor backing Beacon Therapeutics. This milestone may facilitate access to capital that supports the company’s progression towards the next stages of development.
Beacon Therapeutics continues to enroll patients in its pivotal Phase 2/3 VISTA trial for laru-zova, with the aim of further establishing the treatment’s efficacy and safety profile.
This article is based on a press release statement from Beacon Therapeutics and does not constitute an endorsement of the company or its products.
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