Cirrus Therapeutics

Cirrus Therapeutics

Biotechnology Research

Taming the ocular immune system to treat chronic blinding diseases

About us

Cirrus Therapeutics is an ocular immunology-focused company co-founded by Dr. Kai Chan, former Chief Scientific Officer of Ally Therapeutics and Blavatnik Fellow at Harvard Business School, and Dr. Andrew Dick, Professor and Head of the Academic Unit of Ophthalmology at the University of Bristol and Director of UCL Institute of Ophthalmology. Cirrus, a spin-out from the University of Bristol, is developing treatments for long-term eye diseases that can cause blindness, focusing on conditions that affect the ocular immune system. Cirrus’ lead program is a differentiated and first-in-class approach to treating dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss among older adults. Dr. Dick, Dr. Chan, and colleagues found that increasing the protein IRAK-M in retinal cells can significantly protect against retinal degeneration. This discovery will build and improve upon current treatments for AMD, which only have the capacity to address single pathophysiology pathways. Cirrus’ novel approach not only addresses the multiple pathways involved in treating AMD but also offers the most compelling and evidence-based strategy available today. MARKET POTENTIAL The AMD market is rapidly growing—especially as global populations age—and is expected to reach $27.5 billion by 2031.

Industry
Biotechnology Research
Company size
2-10 employees
Type
Privately Held

Employees at Cirrus Therapeutics

Updates

  • View organization page for Cirrus Therapeutics, graphic

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    Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) presents a spectrum of symptoms, from mild blurriness and difficulty seeing in low light to more severe disruptions like wavy vision and significant central vision loss. These symptoms not only diminish the quality of life for millions but also come with high financial costs due to continuous medical care and lifestyle adjustments. At Cirrus Therapeutics, co-founded by visionaries Dr. Ying Kai Chan and Dr. Andrew Dick, we're pioneering a first-in-class treatment that could dramatically alter the AMD landscape. Leveraging groundbreaking research on the IRAK-M protein, our approach targets the multifaceted pathways of AMD to protect and preserve vision more effectively than ever before. This innovative strategy could significantly reduce the burden of Dry AMD, offering new hope to those facing the challenges of vision loss. Stay tuned to our journey towards to make a global impact on healthspan. Follow Cirrus Therapeutics for updates on how our research moves from the lab to changing lives worldwide. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

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    While Cirrus Therapeutics’ collaborative network is global, the team is based in the renowned offices of The Engine Accelerator in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Located in a hub designed for “Tough Tech” pioneers, The Engine Accelerator provides Cirrus with cutting-edge labs and office spaces purpose-built for high-impact innovations. This environment not only accelerates our preclinical developments but also surrounds us with a community of like-minded entrepreneurs and scientists dedicated to solving the world’s most pressing challenges. "The collaborative energy and access to top-tier resources at The Engine are invaluable. Working alongside fellow innovators who share a passion for science and a vision for better health outcomes energizes our team every day," says Dr. Ying Kai Chan, Cirrus CEO and cofounder. As we harness this dynamic ecosystem’s full potential, stay tuned for more updates on our journey to transform AMD treatment and extend healthy lifespans. Follow us to witness how together, we bring hope and vision to millions. Join us in redefining the future of ocular health and stay updated on our progress towards translation. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

    • Did You Know that Cirrus Therapeutics is based at The Engine Accelerator
  • View organization page for Cirrus Therapeutics, graphic

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    At Cirrus Therapeutics, our mission goes beyond the lab. As we advance our groundbreaking treatment for Dry AMD—the leading cause of vision loss among older adults—we're also committed to raising awareness about the disease and its primary risk factors:   1. Age: AMD is most common in people over 60 and aging further increases risk, making it crucial to focus on preventative care as we get older. 2. Genetics: A family history of AMD can nearly double your risk, highlighting the need for genetic awareness and early screening. 3. Lifestyle Choices: Factors like smoking and poor diet significantly increase AMD risks and are preventable through healthier choices.   Led by Dr. Ying Kai Chan and Dr. Andrew Dick, Cirrus is developing a first-in-class, novel treatment that targets multiple pathways involved in Dry AMD, by using gene therapy to enhance the IRAK-M protein directly in the eye. This approach not only addresses Dry AMD more comprehensively but also sets a new standard in ocular therapeutics.   As we continue to advance this therapy, follow Cirrus Therapeutics to stay updated on our journey to redefine eye health and extend quality of life for patients worldwide. Together, we're not just extending life spans—we're enhancing life quality. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

    • Cirrus Therapeutics highlights AMD's major risk factors: age, genetics, and lifestyle.
  • View organization page for Cirrus Therapeutics, graphic

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    Last week, Cirrus Therapeutics' founders Dr. Ying Kai Chan and Dr. Andrew Dick visited the globally renowned Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI)! Their landmark visit allowed them to engage with top researchers and share insights from their pioneering work in ocular immunology. Our founders discussed advancements in treating eye diseases and explored collaborative opportunities to push the boundaries of patient-centered treatments further. These discussions underscore our commitment to harnessing international expertise and fostering collaborations that pave the way for groundbreaking therapies. Cirrus Therapeutics is at the forefront of developing innovative treatments for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), focusing on a unique approach that targets multiple pathophysiological pathways with the potential to significantly improve outcomes for millions worldwide. Stay tuned as we continue to work with the global research community to transform the landscape of ocular health. Your support is invaluable as we progress towards commercialization and making a profound impact on patients’ lives globally. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

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  • View organization page for Cirrus Therapeutics, graphic

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    Cirrus Therapeutics is excited to announce that we have received favorable feedback from the FDA on the development plan for our innovative treatment targeting dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). We presented our translational and clinical development plans to the FDA Office of Therapeutics Products/Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research as part of an Initial Targeted Engagement for Regulatory Advice (INTERACT) process and are pleased that the FDA was completely aligned with our proposed CMC, non-clinical, and clinical development plans. This positive FDA feedback early in the development process not only underscores the promise of our unique therapeutic approach but also derisks our journey from groundbreaking research to real-world impact. As we continue translating this therapeutic approach, we're one step closer to improving and preserving the vision of millions worldwide and transforming the landscape of ocular health. Our treatment strategy, centered on enhancing the IRAK-M protein in retinal cells, is poised to address the complex pathophysiology of AMD more effectively than ever before. This milestone brings us closer to delivering a solution that not only treats but potentially reverses vision loss in AMD patients, setting a new standard in ocular care. "FDA reserves INTERACT meetings for novel therapeutics. Receiving positive feedback from the FDA through this process is more than just a procedural success; it's a beacon of hope for patients worldwide. We're not just developing a treatment; we're working to ensure that vision preservation is a reality for the aging population, fulfilling our mission to extend not just life, but the quality of life.” -- Dr. Ying Kai Chan, Cofounder and CEO. Join us in celebrating this monumental achievement as we continue to push the boundaries of science and medicine. Andrew Dick #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

    • Cirrus Therapeutics on the path to translation and commercialization after positive FDA INTERACT meeting.
  • View organization page for Cirrus Therapeutics, graphic

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    Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of vision loss among older adults, affecting the central part of the retina which is crucial for reading and recognizing faces. There are two forms of the debilitating disease: Dry AMD and Wet AMD. Dry AMD, the more common type, progresses slowly and is marked by the gradual breakdown of retinal cells, wherein Wet AMD can cause rapid vision loss due to abnormal blood vessel growth. At Cirrus Therapeutics, our focus is on pioneering a groundbreaking treatment for Dry AMD. Unlike existing treatments that target a single pathway, our innovative approach at Cirrus addresses multiple pathways by increasing the production of IRAK-M protein in retinal cells. This protein is crucial for maintaining cell health and its decline is a key factor in AMD progression. Founded by visionary scientists and entrepreneurs, Dr. Ying Kai Chan and Dr. Andrew Dick, Cirrus is at the forefront of ocular immunology research. Our studies have shown promising results in not only slowing but potentially reversing some of the damages caused by AMD. This could mean a transformative improvement in the quality of life for millions, emphasizing our commitment to not just extend life spans but enhance the quality of those years. Follow us here and stay updated on our journey towards commercialization and bringing innovative solutions to patients worldwide. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

    • Dry AMD alongside Wet AMD descriptions.
  • View organization page for Cirrus Therapeutics, graphic

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    Exciting news from the front lines of ocular health! Excited to announce that Dr. Ying Kai Chan, Cirrus Therapeutics' visionary CEO, will be speaking at Emory University's Infectious Disease Across Scales Career Development Seminar Series. His talk, 'The Entrepreneurial Scientist: Bridging Academia and Industry,' will delve into the innovative cross-disciplinary approaches that define our work at Cirrus. Emory, a hub for cutting-edge research and education, provides the perfect stage for Dr. Chan to discuss our breakthroughs in ocular gene therapy and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives scientific advancements. Students and faculty will receive firsthand knowledge from our leader on translating and commercializing discoveries! Follow us here for updates and insights on how we're combating eye diseases and improving health spans globally. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

    • Kai Chan, cofounder and CEO of Cirrus Therapeutics, scheduled to speak with Emory University.
  • View organization page for Cirrus Therapeutics, graphic

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    Addressing the Rising Global Challenge of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)! As the world prepares for an aging population, the number of people affected by age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is set to increase dramatically. By 2050, an estimated 30.44 million in Asia and millions more across Europe and North America will face this life-altering condition. At Cirrus Therapeutics, cofounded by Dr. Ying Kai Chan Chan and Dr. Andrew Dick, we're at the forefront of pioneering a first-in-class treatment that targets the root causes of AMD through a novel approach involving the IRAK-M protein. Our innovative gene therapy not only addresses multiple pathological pathways but also aims to sustain the health of retinal cells far more effectively than current treatments. Stay tuned as we advance towards clinical trials and beyond. We are committed to transforming the landscape of ocular health and offering new hope to millions. Follow our journey and be part of the future where vision loss is no longer an inevitable part of aging. #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

    • Graphic showing that by 2050, Asia, Europe, and North America are estimated to have the highest rates of AMD.
  • View organization page for Cirrus Therapeutics, graphic

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    Exciting news from the front lines of ocular health! Dr. Andrew Dick, Cirrus Therapeutics’ cofounder and chief scientific advisor, will share insights at the prestigious Cambridge Ophthalmological Symposium. Thought leaders from around the world will join him as he discusses the 'Evolution of Treatment Regimens for Uveitis,' highlighting our innovative approach through understanding ocular immunology to generate the next generation of therapies. This event, renowned for its rigorous scientific discourse, offers a platform for Andrew to showcase how Cirrus is reshaping treatment landscapes. Stay tuned as we continue to push the boundaries of medicine, aiming to enhance patient outcomes worldwide. Follow our journey towards commercialization and discover how we're making a difference! Ying Kai Chan #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #ophthalmology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

    • Image of Dr. Andrew Dick, Cofounder and Chief Scientific Advisor of Cirrus Therapeutics with Cambridge University background. Announces upcoming speaking engagement.
  • View organization page for Cirrus Therapeutics, graphic

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    Last week, the The Termeer Foundation's Class of 2024 Fellows gathered for an invaluable two-day, immersive event focused on values-driven leadership, fundraising, and dealmaking. "As one of this year’s fellows, I am deeply honored to participate and glean insights from peers from around the world, seasoned biotech and pharma mentors, and a host of industry experts. The diverse range of discussions and mentorship has been both enlightening and inspiring. Reflecting on the broad spectrum of sessions uniquely developed for biotech leaders, I am more equipped than ever to advance Cirrus Therapeutics’ mission. The lessons learned here are directly translatable to advancing our work on innovative treatments for AMD. This is what pioneering healthcare looks like—melding cutting-edge science with impactful leadership. A huge thank you to the Termeer Foundation and all the mentors for this incredible opportunity to grow and lead more effectively." —Dr. Ying Kai Chan, CEO of Cirrus Therapeutics Andrew Dick #vision #AMD #DryAMD #WetAMD #optometry #opthamology #healthcare #innovation #science #research #termeerfellow #biotech #STEM

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