Quark Releases Data Indicating QPI-1007 Prevents Progressive RGC Loss In IOP

Quark has releases the data suggesting that QPI-1007 prevents progressive retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss in an increased ocular pressure (IOP) rat model of glaucoma.

The experiments done by Adriana Di Polo of the Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, University of Montreal, indicate that QPI-1007 has the potential to treat patients with glaucoma.

Reportedly, QPI-1007 is being evaluated in advanced IND-enabling preclinical studies as a neuroprotective agent for eye diseases.

Previous studies demonstrated a robust neuroprotective effect of QPI-1007 in two additional models of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death – induced by optic nerve crush or axotomy. In those studies, QPI-1007 was administered immediately after the optic nerve injury.

In the current IOP study, QPI-1007 was administered 2 weeks after disease induction when more than 25% of RGCs have already been lost. Whereas, RGC loss progressed in the control eyes, loss of RGCs was completely blocked in the QPI-1007-treated eyes.

Daniel Zurr, CEO of Quark, said: Quark is pleased to announce additional data supporting the therapeutic potential of QPI-1007 — the first siRNA drug candidate based on our own IP — as well as our proven ability to advance siRNA products from discovery to the clinic. Our leadership position within the RNAi field is set to continue with the upcoming IND filing for QPI-1007 to support initial clinical studies in non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy.