OccuLogix suspends RHEO programme

OccuLogix has announced that it is indefinitely suspending its RHEO System clinical development programme in dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

The RHEO procedure is a specific method of apheresis — a treatment in which a patient's blood is drawn outside the body and specific compounds are removed before being returned to the body.

The RHEO procedure uses patented filtering technology to remove excess levels of macro-proteins and fatty components in the blood that have been associated with AMD. These substances, which are known to thicken the blood, decrease blood flow and cause damage to capillary vessels, include LDL cholesterol, fibrinogen and alpha-2-macroglobulin.

The company cited costs and development timelines as its reasons for suspending the programme.