Chengdu Origen Biotechnology and Vanotech announced the dosing of the first patient in a phase 1 clinical trial of KH658, a gene therapy candidate for neovascular (“wet”) age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). The trial, known as VAN-2401, is taking place in the United States and is evaluating the safety and tolerability of KH658 when delivered as a single administration into the suprachoroidal space.

The therapy uses a recombinant adeno-associated virus vector to deliver a human VEGF receptor fusion protein. In preclinical models, the treatment remained in the retina for extended periods and prevented disease progression, suggesting potential for long-term disease control with one dose. The trial is expected to enroll about 9 patients who have previously received anti-VEGF therapy.