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Imagine a simple lens replacing weeks of cumbersome eye drops or injections to treat eye diseases. This is the revolutionary innovation that French biotech Biophta is aiming to bring to life. After raising 6.5 million euros, Biophta is positioning itself as a leader in ophthalmology by developing a unique ocular insert, promising to simplify and enhance treatments for millions of patients.
An Innovative Hydrogel-based Ophthalmic Insert
Biophta’s ocular insert is a small 3mm tablet, easy to apply on the eye, which transforms into a hydrogel once placed. This thin layer delivers medication precisely and continuously for a week, eliminating the need for frequent eye drops or painful injections. The technology is based on a nanofiber matrix that ensures stable and controlled drug diffusion.
Promising Applications: Glaucoma and Macular Edema
The first application of this insert will be for glaucoma, a condition linked to elevated intraocular pressure and one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Clinical trials are set to begin in 2025. Biophta is also targeting macular edema, a serious complication of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), with trials planned for 2026. This device could replace repeated eye injections, providing much-needed relief to patients.
Industrial Support and Global Prospects
Biophta enjoys the backing of two key players: Unither Pharmaceuticals and HTL Biotechnology, who will contribute their expertise in pharmaceutical manufacturing and biopolymers. These strong partnerships are expected to accelerate the development and large-scale production of the insert. The global market for ocular diseases, including glaucoma and AMD, is valued at billions of dollars, making this innovation a significant step forward in eye health.
A Revolution on the Horizon
If clinical trials prove successful, Biophta’s insert could change the lives of millions by the end of this decade, simplifying the treatment of eye diseases and greatly improving patients’ quality of life.
