Seeking Novel Disease Models of Macular Degeneration

Daiichi Sankyo, a global pharmaceutical company focused on creating innovative pharmaceuticals, is seeking disease models of macular degeneration—specifically atrophic age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Stargardt disease—that have high translational potential for clinical use. They are particularly interested in models induced by fundamental pathological mechanisms known in AMD or that have demonstrated responsiveness to existing AMD therapies.

Approaches of interest

• In vitro and in vivo disease models that closely resemble human disease states in terms of disease state inducers, gene expression, and pathology
• Models induced by factors strongly associated with AMD
• Models demonstrating concordance with human pathology, such as development of CNV or localized RPE atrophy
• Models showing responsiveness to agents that have exhibited efficacy signals in AMD clinical trials, including complement inhibitors
• Research to evaluate drug efficacy using AMD and Stargardt disease models
   

Out of scope

• Models not applicable to age-related macular degeneration or Stargardt disease
• In silico and AI-powered models

Developmental stage of interest: Basic research to preclinical research. Opportunities with animal models or in vitro RPE cell models are of highest interest.

Please note: Full RFP is attached in the "More Information" section of this page. Faculty and researchers interested in applying for these opportunities based on technologies developed or disclosed at Vanderbilt must submit their proposals through the CTTC.