China-based Lee’s Pharmaceutical Holdings Ltd (HKG: 0950) spin-off Zhaoke Ophthalmology Ltd (HKG: 6622) has announced the enrollment of the first patients for its ZKY001 in a Phase II clinical study in transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (TPRK). The study will enroll 120 patients across 10 centers. Additionally, a separate Phase II clinical study in pterygium (corneal or conjunctival hyperplasia) is underway, set to enroll 180 patients across 10 centers. An Investigator Initiated Trial has also been started in neurotrophic keratitis (NK), enrolling 28 patients.
ZKY001 Profile
ZKY001 is based on a peptide composed of seven amino acids (LQ-7), a functional fragment of thymosin β4, which can bind to actin, a protein playing a central role in cell structure and movement. The drug is being developed to treat corneal epithelial defect (CED) in addition to the aforementioned indications. These studies aim to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ZKY001 in various ophthalmic conditions, positioning it as a potential therapeutic option for multiple eye diseases.
Future Development Plans
The initiation of these Phase II clinical studies underscores Zhaoke Ophthalmology’s commitment to advancing innovative treatments for ophthalmic conditions. By exploring the potential of ZKY001 across multiple indications, the company aims to address significant unmet needs in the field of ophthalmology and improve patient outcomes.-Fineline Info & Tech
