Neurotech Pharmaceuticals has been granted Fast Track designations by the FDA for NT-501 for the treatment of visual loss in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

NT-501 is an intraocular, cell-containing polymer implant that has been developed to provide continuous, long-term release of the therapeutic protein Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor (CNTF) directly into the back of the eye via the company's proprietary Encapsulated Cell Technology.

Neurotech is currently conducting two Phase II/III trials of NT-501 for the treatment of visual loss associated with RP in both its earlier and later stages. It is also carrying out a Phase II study evaluating NT-501 in 48 patients with dry AMD.