Next to the cataract treatment, which is currently being validated in the IOF Advanced project F2017/IOF–dvanced /089, we identified two novel clinical applications with a high market potential for the enzymatic treatment. One application (also in opthalmology) is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common cause of irreversible loss of sight for which at the current time no treatment is available. The second clinical application is treatment of burn scars.

In both projects, we will use the enzyme that was produced via recombinant methods in the F2017/IOF Advanced/089. Preclinical validation of safety and efficacy will be performed in vitro on histological slides of human eyes and skin, as well as in vivo on a sufficient amount of laboratory animals (mice). During the first year of PRIO, we will generate the necessary in vitro and in vivo data to bring the IP into PCT phase.

Next to this, an extensive market study will be performed, the competitive landscape will be monitored, potential licensing partners will be identified. Depending on the value proposition (IP to be filed in year 1 of the project), we will define the best business model and choose either a licensing strategy or a spinoff finality.