Opus Genetics announced the launch and funding of a clinical trial evaluating its gene therapy for MERTK-related retinitis pigmentosa (RP), a rare inherited eye disease that causes progressive vision loss and eventual blindness.

The clinical trial will evaluate the safety and efficacy of OPGx-MERTK, an investigational adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy developed by Opus Genetics. The therapy is designed to deliver a functional copy of the MERTK gene to retinal cells. Mutations in MERTK impair the retina’s ability to recycle photoreceptor components, leading to progressive retinal degeneration and vision loss. Currently, there are no approved treatments for MERTK-related retinitis pigmentosa.

The study will be launched in Abu Dhabi in collaboration with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, the Innovative Research Oversight and Support (IROS) division of the M42 group, and the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi will serve as the clinical site and will leverage its diagnostic imaging capabilities, surgical expertise, and specialized retinal disease clinics to support the trial.

The Opus MERTK program is expected to commence clinical development activities in 2026. 

“Launching our clinical trial for a MERTK gene therapy is a defining moment for patients and for the field of inherited retinal disease,” said George Magrath, MD, Chief Executive Officer of Opus Genetics. “This collaboration with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi and our partners brings together scientific innovation, clinical excellence, and a shared commitment to addressing serious unmet needs. For patients living with MERTK-related retinitis pigmentosa, this trial represents the first real opportunity to potentially change the course of a disease that has historically led to inevitable vision loss.”