Current Research

Overview

Below are descriptions of the ocular inflammatory research currently being carried out at MERSI. This may include clinical trials, expanded access to novel treatments, and collaborations with researchers looking to expand the understanding of uveitis. For clinical trials, the length and number of study visits is included within each description. Study visits will often consist of bloodwork, diagnostic testing, eye exams, and other safety assessments. Coverage is provided for all assessments conducted within the study by the sponsor.

Have questions? Connect with an OIUF Research Coordinator for inquiries about current research and participating in trials near you!

Current Clinical Trials

clarity study logo
Synopsis:

This trial is studying the safety and efficacy of Brepocitinib to treat non-infectious intermediate, posterior and panuveitis. This medication has moved to phase 3 for further testing after recently
completing a phase 2 trial, and is a dual inhibitor of JAK1 and TYK2, both thought to play important roles in managing inflammation and autoimmunity. This trial is currently enrolling participants in the
US and internationally, and is designed to include two phases for participants, first with an active drug versus placebo phase, followed by an open-label phase where everyone is treated with
Brepocitinib.

For more information on if you quality and to find a local site, click here:
https://clarityuveitis.com/
For updates on results of this trial, click here: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06431373

alimera logo
Synopsis:
This trial is further evaluating the safety and efficacy of YUTIQ after FDA approval. YUTIQ is a steroidal intravitreal implant for the treatment of non-infectious posterior uveitis. This study does not
have a placebo arm and therefore all eligible participants are treated with YUTIQ. This has completed enrollment, and patients are progressing through scheduled follow-ups.


For updates on results of this trial, click here: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05322070

ACELYRIN logo

Synopsis:
This trial is studying the safety and efficacy of izokipeb, a subcutaneous biologic injection, which modifies the immune system by targeting Interleukin-17A for the treatment of non-infectious intermediate, posterior, and panuveitis. This trial has completed enrollment, and patients are
continuing to progress through follow up visits.

For updates on results of this trial, click here: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05384249

Ocular Inflammatory Disease Databases Synopsis:

yutiq

Synopsis:
This registry is collecting real-world data on patients who have received YUTIQ. YUTIQ is a steroid implant for the eye that is currently FDA-approved for the treatment of posterior uveitis. The aim of this study is to collect post-marketing data to continue learning about the real-world implications of this treatment in the long run. Data collection has been completed and analysis is in progress.

Recent Trials

alumis

Synopsis:
This trial is studying the safety and efficacy of ESK-001, an oral medication for the treatment of non-infectious intermediate, posterior and panuveitis. This trial offers two alternative doses of
ESK-001, an oral medication which acts as an allosteric tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitor, thought to play a role in inflammation. This trial has completed enrollment.

For updates on results of this trial, click here: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05953688

lilly

Synopsis:
Taltz (ixekizumab) is an FDA-approved, biologic drug that modifies the immune system by targeting Interleukin-17A. Taltz is currently used to treat moderate-to-severe Plaque Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis. This study explored the safety and efficacy of Taltz for the treatment of adults with non-infectious uveitis. Enrollment for this trial has been completed and
results are currently being analyzed.

For updates on results of this trial, click here: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06085079

cartesian

Synopsis:
Cartesian Therapeutics developed an infusion therapy, Descartes-08, which uses re-engineered
T-cells from a patient’s body to treat different diseases and conditions. By giving the T-cells a new
message not to target your cells as enemy cells, the inflammatory response can be reduced or
inhibited. This innovative infusion treatment was offered for patients with active Ocular Cicatricial
Pemphigoid (OCP) and Autoimmune Retinopathy through FDA Exanded Access, but is not currently
enrolling new patients.

Collaborations with Other Researchers

Umass Chan

Synopsis:
This is a collaboration project with researchers at UMass Chan Medical School that are hoping to
learn more about the role of regulatory T cells (immune cells) in those with ocular inflammatory
diseases, such as uveitis. Any patient getting bloodwork done at MERSI in Waltham, Ma for their
regular appointments is eligible to provide an additional blood sample.

Synopsis:
This is a collaboration project with Boston Children’s Hospital to learn more about autoimmune diseases of the eye to improve diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. Any patient undergoing surgery, either with or without an inflammatory eye condition, qualifies for this trial if they are willing to provide a sample of blood and sample of eye fluid while undergoing surgery.

  • Educational Audio

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     Uveitis and Steroid-Sparing Therapy

    Presented by C. Stephen Foster, MD, FACS, FACR

    Audio-Digest Ophthalmology Volume 56, Issue 15

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