AAV encoding miRNAs as a new therapeutic for choroidal neovascularization

Better treatments are urgently needed for eye conditions when existing therapies fall short. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a significant contributor to irreversible central vision impairment in an aging population. The neovascular form of AMD (nAMD) accounts for most severe vision loss due to choroidal neovascularization (CNV), a process often leading to subretinal hemorrhage, photoreceptor cell death, and ultimately permanent fibrovascular scarring.1 At present, standard treatments use recombinant anti-VEGF fusion proteins or antibodies injected intravitreally every few months.