Seeking Neuroprotective Agents for Retinal and Ocular Conditions

Johnson & Johnson are a global pharmaceutical company with a strong track record of successful academic collaborations. They are interested in identifying research focused on novel treatments for retinal and ocular conditions. 

Approaches of Interest

Johnson & Johnson are looking for any novel compounds or targets which could be used for retinal neuroprotection. This includes prevention of photoreceptor/retinal ganglion cell (RGC) apoptosis or degeneration. 

The photoreceptor/RGC degeneration can be linked to any condition, but Johnson & Johnson are particularly interested in glaucoma, Age‑related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and more common retinal conditions (i.e. not ultra-rare inherited retinal dystrophies).

• All mechanisms of action are in scope, with gene therapy based approaches being of particular interest
• Pre‑clinical data demonstrating a signal for efficacy in animal models is required (e.g. rats, mice, pigs, dogs and rabbit). Non-human primate data is desirable, but not essential
• Diseases of particular interest include: Glaucoma, Stargardt Disease, Retinitis Pigmentosa and Usher Syndrome

Developmental Stages of Interest

Basic research through to Phase I clinical trials is in scope for this campaign. 

Out of Scope

Repurposed compounds which have been commercialised or have been in late stage development are not of interest.

Jurisdictions of Interest

Submissions from universities and research institutions in all jurisdictions will be considered. 

Submission Information

Submission of one-page research briefs (approx 200 ‑ 300 words) plus any extra applicable information is encouraged.