EyeDura, SERI Partner on Insulin-Based Therapy for NK

EyeDura Therapeutics has launched preclinical efficacy studies in partnership with the Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI) to advance its lead candidate, an insulin-based topical treatment, for neurotrophic keratitis (NK), a rare degenerative corneal disease affecting an estimated 71,000 patients in the United States.

Advancing a Sustained-Release Topical Therapy

The company’s investigational therapy leverages a proprietary sustained-release technology designed to deliver insulin at therapeutic levels from a single eye drop lasting seven days or longer. This approach could significantly reduce dosing frequency compared to current NK treatments, which often require multiple daily applications or surgical interventions.

“This partnership with SERI, a global leader in ophthalmic research, strengthens our ability to deliver innovative treatments for NK. It accelerates our clinical development and supports our mission to expand access to transformative therapies worldwide,” said Srini Venkatesh, PhD, MBA, CEO of EyeDura Therapeutics.

Neurotrophic keratitis is caused by damage to the corneal nerves, which can lead to epithelial breakdown, ulceration, vision loss, and, in severe cases, blindness. With limited treatment options available, the condition presents a significant unmet medical need.

Collaborative Efforts with SERI

Through the collaboration, EyeDura gains access to SERI’s specialized preclinical models and infrastructure to validate the efficacy and safety of its insulin-based formulation.

“We are excited to collaborate with EyeDura to address the unmet needs in NK treatment,” said Assoc. Prof. Yu-Chi Liu, MCI, MD, PhD, Co-Head of Regenerative Therapy and Clinical Scientist at SERI. “By leveraging SERI’s expertise and preclinical models, we aim to generate pivotal data to advance this promising therapy toward clinical success.”