AMD is the leading cause of visual loss in adults age 50 and older in the western world. Ophthotech is developing products targeting key molecular events driving Dry & Wet AMD

Preclinical models of angiogenesis in ophthalmology and oncology have demonstrated that anti-PDGF therapy in combination with an anti-VEGF agent results in regression of neovascular tissue.

There is strong scientific support for Complement-mediated inflammation in AMD. Recent studies have implicated that Complement activation plays a pivotal role in the majority of AMD patients.

Interaction between α5β1 integrin with fibronectin regulates multiple key events of pathological neovascularization. Antagonism of α5β1 with a monoclonal antibody approach has demonstrated a strong anti-angiogenic effect. This effect is independent of growth factors such as Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF).