Clearside Biomedical (CLSD) 2025 Conference Transcript

Clearside Biomedical (CLSD) Conference Summary Company Overview - Clearside Biomedical focuses on delivering drugs to the back of the eye through the suprachoroidal space, positioning itself as a leader in this innovative approach [3][4] - The company has successfully navigated the FDA regulatory pathway and has conducted over 15,000 injections using its SCS Microinjector [3] Core Products and Pipeline - The internal pipeline includes CLS AX, a phase three ready asset for wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and preclinical candidates for geographic atrophy [4] - Collaborations with partners include: - Bausch + Lomb commercializing XIPERE for uveitic macular edema - AbbVie REGENX entering phase three for diabetic retinopathy with gene therapy - Aura in phase three for choroidal melanoma - BioCrysta preparing for clinical trials for diabetic macular edema (DME) [4] Suprachoroidal Space Advantages - The suprachoroidal injection method is less invasive compared to traditional intravitreal injections, reducing the risk of complications such as endophthalmitis [6][7] - The method allows for more contained drug delivery, potentially leading to less inflammation and better targeting of ocular conditions [10] CLS AX Candidate Insights - CLS AX targets the ocular anti-VEGF market, which is valued at approximately $101 billion [12] - The drug aims to extend the duration of treatment effects from the current average of 1-4 months to 3-6 months, providing a significant improvement in patient management [12][14] - The use of a TKI (tyrosine kinase inhibitor) instead of biologics differentiates CLS AX from competitors, allowing for more flexible dosing schedules [13][14] Phase Two Data and Phase Three Design - In phase two trials, approximately two-thirds of patients requiring frequent injections were able to maintain vision for six months without additional therapy [16] - The company plans to adjust the phase three trial design based on learnings from phase two, including earlier redosing and aligning with real-world clinical practices [26][42] - The focus will be on a general patient population rather than just the most active patients, which may provide a more accurate representation of treatment efficacy [40] Financial Considerations - As of the end of the previous year, Clearside Biomedical reported approximately $20 million in cash, which is expected to support the initiation of phase three trials [46] - The projected cost for each phase three study is estimated to be between $55 million and $60 million [46] Market Dynamics - The competitive landscape includes other companies using intravitreal methods, which may have limitations in terms of frequency and invasiveness [21][24] - The company acknowledges the importance of flexible dosing options, as seen with competitors like Vabismo, which has gained traction due to its every four-week option [24] Conclusion - Clearside Biomedical is positioned to leverage its innovative suprachoroidal delivery method and promising pipeline to capture significant market share in the ocular treatment space, with a focus on patient-centric approaches and real-world applicability in its clinical trials [49]