While other approaches focus on managing the disease once AMD has developed, Cirrus Therapeutics looked upstream to the source of the disease: aging itself. Our scientists discovered that a single protein, IRAK-M, is a central regulator of the eye’s immune homeostasis. As we age, IRAK-M levels drop, leaving the retina vulnerable across multiple critical pathophysiological pathways, unable to defend itself against the inflammation and metabolic dysfunction that characterizes dry AMD progression.

Rare variants in the gene IRAK3, which encodes IRAK-M, are associated with an increased likelihood of developing AMD, further validating IRAK-M’s central role.

Current single-pathway treatments cannot stop the gradual cellular destruction meaningfully.

Restoring Nature’s Blueprint: Reversing Cellular Aging

Our breakthrough therapy delivers genetic instructions directly into the eye through an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector, restoring IRAK-M production to youthful levels. This approach rejuvenates the eye’s natural balance, reducing harmful inflammation, restoring metabolic function, and protecting the cells that are essential for clear vision.

With our therapeutic approach, what was once permanent loss may be reversible: patients with dry AMD may not only dramatically slow or even halt their disease progression but also improve their vision.