Ocuphire Pharma has announced the acquisition of Opus Genetics, creating a clinical-stage company with a strong focus on gene therapies for rare inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). The merger, structured as an all-stock transaction, will see the combined entity renamed Opus Genetics

The acquisition strengthens Ocuphire’s pipeline, which now includes adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapies alongside phentolamine ophthalmic solution 0.75%, a drug currently in phase 3 trials for presbyopia and dim light vision disturbances. Additionally, Ocuphire will seek a strategic partner to continue developing APX3330, an oral small-molecule inhibitor of Ref-1, for non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Ben Yerxa, PhD, former president and CEO of Opus Genetics, will become president of the new combined company. “With the Ocuphire team’s late-stage ophthalmic drug development and regulatory approval experience and resources, we believe we are well-positioned to accelerate our pipeline of potentially transformative gene therapies for inherited retinal diseases,” he said in a press release. RP