Cirrus Therapeutics

Research Shines A Light on the Real-World Experiences of Dry AMD Patients For the millions living with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the journey from diagnosis to vision loss is often filled with uncertainty, frustration, and fear. A study highlights the emotional and functional toll of dry AMD, revealing that even in its early stages—before significant vision loss—patients experience distress, social isolation, and a perceived lack of psychological support from their healthcare providers. Unlike other eye conditions with available treatments, dry AMD is a chronic disease with high unmet need. Patients report feeling powerless, struggling with daily activities, and facing a future where their vision will only worsen. At Cirrus Therapeutics, we refuse to accept that this is “the end of the story.” Our pioneering approach in ocular immunology is targeting the root causes of dry AMD with the potential to protect retinal cells from degeneration. We believe patients deserve more than a diagnosis—they deserve hope. As we advance toward translation and clinical trials, we invite you to follow our journey and stay updated on our progress in bringing a groundbreaking solution to those affected by dry AMD. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM Andrew Dick Ying Kai Chan

We believe that groundbreaking science flourishes under visionary leadership. We are incredibly proud of our CEO and Cofounder Dr. Ying Kai Chan and his journey as a 2024 Termeer Fellow. The Termeer Foundation fellowship is a testament to the power of investing in the next generation of biotech pioneers. With the program's support including access to industry giants like AlphaRose Therapeutics's President and COO Masako Nakamura, our CEO is even more determined to lead Cirrus to redefine the future of vision care and bring hope to millions impacted by AMD. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

Meet Dr. Frank Holz: Driving Transformative Therapies for AMD patients with Cirrus Therapeutics Cirrus Therapeutics is proud to have Dr. Frank G. Holz on its Scientific Advisory Board, as a key advisor and expert in retinal disease research. As Professor and Chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at The University of Bonn, Dr. Holz is internationally recognized for his groundbreaking work in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinal imaging, and novel treatment strategies. With more than 500 peer-reviewed publications, leadership roles in the German Ophthalmological Society, European Society of Retina Specialists (EURETINA), and in international consortia including MACUSTAR .eu, and prestigious awards including the Jules Gonin Award, Dr. Holz has dedicated his career to advancing AMD research and clinical care. Excited about Cirrus’ novel IRAK-M approach, Dr. Holz explains: "Current treatments for advanced dry AMD offer only moderate benefits. What makes IRAK-M unique is its ability to target multiple pathways at once, tackling AMD’s complex nature. Even more exciting is its potential to intervene in earlier stages—helping to prevent irreversible vision loss before it begins." At Cirrus, we believe breakthrough science thrives on collaboration across diverse areas of expertise—a principle that drives our approach as we advance toward translation. Follow us to stay updated on Cirrus Therapeutics’ journey toward bringing our first-in-class AMD treatments to patients worldwide. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM Ying Kai Chan Andrew Dick

The Critical Role of Ophthalmologists in Vision Care and AMD Diagnosis Ophthalmologists are are key players in the fight against vision loss, especially in preventing and diagnosing Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 40. Their expertise extends beyond treating eye conditions. Ophthalmologists have to manage advanced diagnostics like OCT scans and fluorescein angiography and play an important part in early intervention. They are critical on the frontlines of AMD detection and management. They educate patients on lifestyle changes, recommend supplements, and create personalized care plans to slow disease progression and preserve vision. At Cirrus Therapeutics, we recognize their invaluable role as we advance our first-in-class approach to treating dry AMD. By leveraging cutting-edge research into the IRAK-M protein, we’re addressing multiple pathways of retinal degeneration to create a more sustainable, impactful solution for patients worldwide. As we continue our journey to translation, we invite you to follow Cirrus Therapeutics for updates on our mission to transform AMD care and improve global eye health. Together, we can protect the gift of sight. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM Ying Kai Chan Andrew Dick

Meet Dr. James Handa: Bridging Patient Care and Scientific Discovery at Cirrus Therapeutics At Cirrus Therapeutics, we’re honored to have James Handa, MD, as a key member of our Scientific Advisory Board. As the Robert Bond Welch Professor and Chief of the Retina Division at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Dr. Handa is a world-renowned leader in retinal surgery and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) research. His extensive clinical and research expertise spans more than 30 years, backed by NIH funding, numerous clinical trials, and more than 230 peer-reviewed publications. He serves on the Executive Committee of the Stephen J. Ryan Initiative for Macular Research (RIMR), and has been Chair of multiple grant review committees including at the National Eye Institute (NEI). Dr. Handa’s inspiration to pursue ophthalmology stems from the profound impact of vision loss on patients’ lives. Reflecting on his journey, he shares: "Blindness consistently ranks among the top concerns for people. I chose ophthalmology because it allows me to help individuals directly through medicine and surgery, while research offers the chance to impact many lives. Cirrus aligns with my approach—combining deep, strong science with the out-of-the-box ideas needed to develop effective AMD treatments." Cirrus Therapeutics is pioneering a first-in-class approach to treating dry AMD by targeting the IRAK-M protein, addressing multiple pathways of retinal degeneration. Our collaborative innovation model, fueled by diverse expertise like Dr. Handa’s, is setting the stage for transformative therapies. Follow us for updates as we advance toward translation and bring hope to millions affected by AMD. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM Ying Kai Chan Andrew Dick

Visualizing the Silent Progression of Dry AMD: The Role of Fundus Autofluorescence Imaging in Geographic Atrophy At Cirrus Therapeutics, we’re dedicated to unraveling the complexities of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD)—a condition that quietly robs over 8 million people worldwide of their central vision. One of the most telling signs of this disease’s progression is the development of geographic atrophy (GA), an advanced form of dry AMD marked by the irreversible loss of key retinal layers. Why is it called Geographic Atrophy? These regions of dead and dying cells (atrophy) resemble a map. As AMD progresses, stressed retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) eventually die, associated with photoreceptor loss, and thinning of the choriocapillaris. This cascade results in the characteristic hypoautofluorescent lesions seen by Fundus Autofluorescence (FAF) imaging. What does this mean for patients? In the early stages, visual acuity may seem unaffected if the fovea (the central retina) is spared. However, as GA lesions expand—often 1.09 mm²/year on average—patients begin experiencing blind spots, trouble reading, and eventually severe vision loss, especially once the fovea is compromised. (The image highlights how FAF imaging tracks this silent progression. Dark lesions represent areas of RPE loss, while the glowing borders indicate regions where degeneration is actively advancing.) At Cirrus Therapeutics, we are pioneering a first-in-class approach to slow and potentially halt this devastating progression. By targeting IRAK-M, a critical protein involved in RPE health, our research offers a promising avenue to not only protect but preserve vision. Join us on this journey as we translate groundbreaking science into life-changing therapies. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM Ying Kai Chan Andrew Dick

Breaking New Ground in AMD Management A recent NIH study has brought renewed hope to patients with late-stage dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AREDS2 supplements, which contain antioxidants like vitamins C and E and are already known to slow AMD progression in earlier stages, have now been shown to reduce sight loss in a subset of patients with geographic atrophy (GA) by up to 55% over three years. This is an exciting development for the AMD community, highlighting the power of science to transform lives. At Cirrus Therapeutics, we share this commitment to advancing AMD treatment. Our lead program is focused on targeting multiple pathways in retinal degeneration, including oxidative stress, by using a novel approach involving the IRAK-M protein—a critical factor in maintaining retinal cell health. By addressing the root causes of AMD and going beyond single-pathway interventions, we’re working to develop a first-in-class therapy that could redefine how this disease is managed globally. As we continue to translate our therapeutic approach, we’re inspired by breakthroughs like this that will accelerate our journey. Follow us for updates on our progress and our mission to protect vision and improve the lives of patients worldwide. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM Ying Kai Chan Andrew Dick

U.S. Regional Hotspots for AMD Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects an estimated 12.6% of Americans over 40, making it the leading cause of vision loss among older adults. The Midwest, New England, and Florida stand out as regions with the highest prevalence of vision-threatening AMD. At Cirrus Therapeutics, we're pioneering a groundbreaking approach to treat Dry AMD by targeting IRAK-M, a key protein in retinal health. Unlike existing therapies, our first-in-class treatment takes a multifaceted approach, addressing multiple pathways to protect retinal cells from degeneration and bring hope to patients worldwide. Our team, led by CEO and Cofounder Dr. Ying Kai Chan and Chief Science Advisor and Cofounder Dr. Andrew Dick, is building on decades of ocular immunology research to advance a therapy that could transform lives—and vision. Follow Cirrus Therapeutics to stay updated on our translational journey and our mission to fight vision loss globally. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

Meet Dr. Maritza McIntyre: Pioneering Translation in AMD Research at Cirrus Therapeutics Cirrus Therapeutics is honored to collaborate with Dr. Maritza McIntyre, a biotech visionary with over 20 years of experience advancing gene and cell therapy products. From her leadership as Chief of the Gene Therapy Branch at the FDA to her pivotal role in securing $150M for Bamboo Therapeutics' acquisition by Pfizer, Dr. McIntyre's expertise has shaped some of the most groundbreaking advancements in biotechnology. Reflecting on the unique opportunities and challenges of advancing IRAK-M augmentation as a first-in-class therapy, Dr. McIntyre shares: "The potential to develop a truly disease-modifying treatment that delivers functional benefits to patients is transformative. With the Cirrus team’s robust data linking science to genetics and natural disease history, we are uniquely positioned to overcome barriers and advance therapies." At Cirrus, we’re addressing the complex etiology of AMD through a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach. From leveraging regulatory science to securing strategic partnerships, our team is navigating a path to bring life-changing therapies to patients worldwide. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue on this journey toward translation. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM Ying Kai Chan Andrew Dick

Vision Loss Isn’t Just Physical—It’s Emotional Too Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss among older adults, and its impact goes far beyond the eyes. Vision loss profoundly affects mental health, leaving many older adults facing emotional and psychological challenges. At Cirrus Therapeutics, we are pioneering innovative treatments that don’t just aim to preserve sight but also improve overall well-being by addressing the root causes of AMD. Mental Health Challenges Linked to Vision Loss * Increased risk of depression and anxiety due to loss of independence. * Feelings of loneliness and social isolation from difficulty recognizing faces or navigating social environments. * A deep sense of grief and uncertainty about the future. * Struggles with daily activities, leading to frustration and diminished quality of life. Our novel approach targets the ocular immune system, leveraging groundbreaking research to protect retinal cells through increased IRAK-M protein levels. This first-in-class therapy is designed to address the multiple pathways involved in AMD, offering hope for millions of patients worldwide. ➡️ Follow Cirrus Therapeutics for updates on our mission to transform eye care and improve patient outcomes globally. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM Ying Kai Chan Andrew Dick