03:17 PM EDT, 04/18/2024 (MT Newswires) -- Ocular Therapeutix ( OCUL ) said Thursday data from the phase 1 Helios study of Axpaxli showed that 46% of the patients had a 1- or 2-step improvement in the Diabetic Retinopathy Severity Scale at 40 weeks, compared with no improvement in the control arm.

"We are pleased to announce positive topline data for Axpaxli in patients with diabetic retinopathy," said Chief Scientific Officer Jeffrey Heier. "Based on the observed safety, efficacy results and durable treatment effect, we have decided to accelerate the DR program to Phase 3."

No patients in the Axpaxli group experienced worsening in DRSS compared with 12.5% in the control arm, Ocular said, adding that Axpaxli was well tolerated and no inflammation was observed.

Ocular shares fell about 20% in recent trading.