Neurotech to enter next phase of implant testing

LINCOLN – Biotechnology firm Neurotech Pharmaceuticals Inc. is ready to begin the next phases of testing on its NT-501 for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa.
NT-501 is an implant containing cells genetically modified to secrete ciliary neurotrophic factor, a protein that stimulates cell growth, directly into the back of the eye for sustained periods of time. The Phase II/III trials will evaluate its effectiveness and safety.
Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of inherited eye diseases in which the degeneration of photoreceptor cells in the retina result in progressive vision loss. Besides high doses of Vitamin A that have been shown to provide some benefit for RP patients, there is no known way to halt the degeneration or cure the disease.