New Insight: A Deep Dive into the Oculis Pipeline with Riad Sherif, MD

Video version available on HCPLive!In this episode of New Insight, host Veeral Sheth, MD, MBA, director of clinical research at University Retina and Macula Associates, speaks with Riad Sherif, MD, chief executive officer of Oculis, about the company's groundbreaking advancements in ophthalmic therapeutics.The discussion delves into Oculis' clinical pipeline, particularly OCS-05, a neuroprotective agent demonstrating promising results in acute optic neuritis. The Phase 2 ACUITY trial showed that OCS-05 preserved retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), reduced axonal loss, and improved low-contrast visual acuity. Importantly, patients receiving OCS-05 experienced significantly fewer multiple sclerosis relapses, suggesting broader neuroprotective potential. Administered intravenously alongside corticosteroids, the therapy could represent a paradigm shift in preserving vision in acute optic neuritis and beyond.Sheth and Sherif also explore Oculis' lead candidate, OCS-01, a topical treatment for diabetic macular edema (DME) that utilizes Optireach™ technology to penetrate the retina. With two ongoing Phase 3 trials (DIAMOND 1 and 2), OCS-01 has the potential to offer a non-invasive alternative or adjunct to intravitreal injections, expanding treatment options for patients with DME. Additionally, Oculis' OCS-02, a TNF inhibitor for dry eye disease, integrates a biomarker-driven precision medicine approach, ensuring targeted therapy for responders and potentially revolutionizing dry eye treatment.Looking ahead, Oculis is focused on executing its clinical programs, particularly finalizing patient randomization in the DIAMOND trials, advancing precision medicine for inflammation, and expanding indications for OCS-05 in neuroprotection. Sherif envisions OCS-05 as a potential game-changer, addressing significant unmet needs in ophthalmology and neurology by preserving vision and improving quality of life for patients facing vision-threatening diseases.Key Episode Timestamps00:00:06 Introduction to New Insight00:01:13 Riad Sherif's Journey from Physician to CEO00:05:23 Challenges of Balancing Medical and Business Roles00:09:44 Oculis' Portfolio and Recent Developments00:14:40 OCS 05 and Its Clinical Applications00:20:22 Oculis' Team and Leadership Philosophy00:24:35 Future Goals and Vision for Oculis