Two phase 2 randomized clinical trials investigating the first-in-class QLS‑111 (Qlaris Bio, Inc), an ATP-sensitive potassium channel modulator, are under way in patients with ocular hypertension and glaucoma.
The agent is “designed to lower IOP beyond currently achievable levels in patients with glaucoma by targeting episcleral venous pressure [EVP],” according to a company news release. Current medications do not directly address distal outflow and EVP, which contributes up to 50% of total IOP, the company stated. The complementary mechanism of action may offer a synergistic advantage in managing IOP.
“This compound has demonstrated that it can work alone or in combination with several current glaucoma drug classes,” said Shan Lin, MD, the codirector of research at the Glaucoma Center of San Francisco. Dr. Lin is a member of the Qlaris Scientific Advisory Board.
