Minipig/pig studies to 6 months showed no immune response to rhCNTF or cells; mild to moderate ocular inflammation
“Two preclinical studies in minipigs or pigs implanted with NT-501-6A.02 device for up to 6 months showed no immune response to rhCNTF or cell producing the protein.”
✓ VerifiedFDA pharmacology/toxicology review, p. 49Source ↗
Biodistribution & persistence
No systemic rhCNTF exposure after ITV implant (minipig to 6 months, rabbit to 9 months); implants delivered about 7-9 ng/day
“In rabbits, NT-501 implants established CNTF levels averaging about 7-9 ng/day for up to 9 months.”
✓ VerifiedFDA pharmacology/toxicology review, p. 2Source ↗
Modality-specific risk
Local ocular toxicity from capsule/rhCNTF dose (cone effects at high output), device failure with cell release, systemic CNTF exposure
“a dose-response to rhCNTF was present, with eyes implanted with empty capsules and capsules with a low CNTF output cell line exhibiting less intense changes than eyes implanted with NT-501.”
✓ VerifiedFDA pharmacology/toxicology review, p. 2Source ↗