Qlaris Bio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapies for serious ophthalmic diseases, with its lead product, QLS-111, at the forefront of its research. QLS-111 employs a unique vasodilatory mechanism to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) by specifically targeting episcleral venous pressure (EVP) and distal outflow resistance, which are critical components of IOP regulation. This approach allows QLS-111 to potentially achieve lower IOP targets than existing therapies, making it a promising candidate for treating conditions such as Normal Tension Glaucoma, Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma, and ocular hypertension associated with rare diseases.

The technology behind QLS-111 is based on an ATP-sensitive potassium channel modulator platform, which was originally developed at the Mayo Clinic. Unlike current glaucoma treatments that primarily focus on reducing aqueous humor production or enhancing proximal outflow, QLS-111 uniquely addresses the distal outflow and EVP, which can account for a significant portion of total IOP. Clinical trials are underway to evaluate the safety and efficacy of QLS-111, with early data suggesting it may be effective both as a standalone treatment and in combination with existing therapies, thereby offering a new avenue for managing IOP in patients who do not respond adequately to current medications.

United States

At Qlaris, our lead program is QLS-111, a novel topical ocular therapy that lowers intraocular pressure with a unique mechanism of action. QLS-111 is distinct from currently available therapies by selectively targeting episcleral venous pressure (EVP) and improving outflow distal to the trabecular meshwork. This novel mechanism may enable the improved treatment of diseases where EVP has limited therapy or has itself been pathologic, such as Normal Tension Glaucoma, Primary Open Angle Glaucoma, glaucoma associated with Sturge-Weber Syndrome, and also in combination with Minimally-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) devices.

Qlaris Bio

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