Visionary Investor Joins Optigo Biotherapeutics as Firm Advances Novel AMD Treatment

Vancouver, British Columbia – November 8, 2025 – Optigo Biotherapeutics, a company focused on innovative treatments for retinal diseases, announced today the appointment of Dr. Andreas Wallnöfer to its Board of Directors. The move coincides with significant progress in the company’s lead program, advancing towards Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling studies for its novel approach to treating age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Dr. Wallnöfer brings over 25 years of experience in pharmaceutical research & development and biotech investment to Optigo. He is particularly known for his keen eye for identifying promising biotech ventures, most recently as a Partner at Jeito Capital and previously with BioMedPartners. His track record includes an early investment in EyeBio, which was acquired by Merck for a substantial $3 billion in 2024.

“Andreas is exactly the strategic leader and industry veteran we were looking for,” said Dr. Henning Afflerbach, Chair of the Board of Optigo. “His singular blend of operational experience — from bench to boardroom — and his track record of guiding programs through to successful exits will be invaluable as we move into clinical development.”

Disrupting the Status Quo in AMD Treatment

AMD is a leading cause of vision loss for people over 50, affecting millions worldwide. The most common “wet” form of AMD involves the abnormal growth of blood vessels in the retina. Current treatment typically requires frequent intravitreal injections of anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (anti-VEGF) drugs to suppress this growth. While effective, these injections are invasive, uncomfortable for patients, and place a significant burden on healthcare systems.

Optigo Biotherapeutics is challenging this status quo with its proprietary Hyaluronic Acid (HA)-anchoring platform. This technology aims to extend the duration of action of anti-VEGF drugs, potentially reducing the frequency of injections and improving patient outcomes. HA is a naturally occurring substance found in the eye, making it a biocompatible and potentially safe delivery vehicle.

“Optigo’s Hyaluronic Acid (HA)-anchoring platform is one of the most promising innovations in retinal drug design that I’ve seen,” said Dr. Andreas Wallnöfer. “Its unprecedented half-life extension has the potential to redefine treatment durability and transform the standard of care in the treatment of retinal diseases. I’m joining the Board at a decisive moment, and I’m eager to help turn this exceptional science into real benefits for patients.”

How HA-Anchoring Works: A Novel Approach to Drug Delivery

According to company literature and patent filings, Optigo’s platform leverages the natural properties of HA to “anchor” therapeutic proteins to the retina. The HA molecule binds to receptors in the retinal tissue, creating a localized reservoir of the drug. This slows the rate at which the drug is cleared from the eye, extending its therapeutic effect.

“The beauty of this approach is that it uses the eye’s natural biology to improve drug delivery,” explains a source familiar with the technology, who requested anonymity. “By anchoring the drug to the retina, you’re minimizing systemic exposure and maximizing the concentration where it’s needed most.”

While several companies are exploring long-acting drug delivery systems for retinal diseases, Optigo’s HA-anchoring platform appears to offer a unique advantage. Its focus on HA, a naturally occurring substance, could potentially minimize the risk of immune reactions and improve biocompatibility.

The Investor’s Perspective: Why Optigo Stands Out

Dr. Wallnöfer’s decision to join Optigo’s Board signals a strong vote of confidence in the company’s technology and management team. His track record as an investor suggests he is looking for ventures with the potential to disrupt existing markets and address unmet medical needs.

“Andreas has a knack for identifying companies with truly innovative technology,” says an industry analyst who closely follows the biotech sector. “He’s not afraid to take risks on companies that are challenging the status quo, and he brings a wealth of experience to the table.”

His investment in EyeBio, which focused on a novel gene therapy approach for AMD, demonstrates his willingness to support companies that are pursuing cutting-edge technologies. The successful acquisition of EyeBio by Merck further validates his investment strategy.

The Road Ahead: IND-Enabling Studies and Beyond

Optigo Biotherapeutics is now focused on completing IND-enabling studies for its lead asset, a long-acting anti-VEGF treatment for neovascular AMD. These studies are designed to assess the safety and efficacy of the treatment in preclinical models and to provide the data needed to submit an IND application to the FDA.

“Adding Andreas to the team underscores our commitment to strong governance and disciplined execution,” says Ali Ardakani, CEO of Optigo. “We are accelerating our development timeline to advance our lead program toward IND-enabling toxicology in preparation for first-in-human trials.”

If the IND application is approved, Optigo plans to initiate clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of its long-acting anti-VEGF treatment in patients with AMD. The company believes that its technology has the potential to significantly improve the lives of millions of people affected by this debilitating disease.

The company faces competition from established players in the ophthalmology space, such as Novartis, Roche/Genentech, and Regeneron. However, Optigo’s innovative approach to drug delivery could give it a competitive edge and position it for success in the long term. The appointment of Dr. Wallnöfer to the Board suggests that Optigo is well-positioned to navigate the challenges ahead and realize its vision of transforming the treatment of retinal diseases.