Optherion secures $37 million for AMD research

Optherion has received $37 million in startup financing for research surrounding age-related macular degeneration, according to a press release from the University of Iowa.

Optherion will initially focus its research on developing disease-modifying therapies to prevent vision loss in patients with dry AMD, as well as a portfolio of tests that predict, diagnose and monitor progression of the disease.

Additionally, the company will expand from its offices and laboratories in New Haven, Conn., into new facilities at the University of Iowa's Oakdale Research Park in Coralville, the release said.

Optherion was founded based on the 2005 discoveries of Gregory Hageman, PhD, a University of Iowa professor of ophthalmology and visual sciences, and Josephine Hoh, PhD, of Yale University. The researchers reported that two genes involved in controlling inflammation — complement factor H and complement factor B — account for nearly three out of four cases of AMD.

Variations in these two genes alter the function of a key pathway in the immune system, which researchers believe leads to AMD, according to the release.

Optherion will pursue advanced treatments and diagnostics for AMD and other diseases using technology licensed from the University of Iowa Research Foundation.