ASRS 2025: End-of-study results from VERONA, a phase 2 trial of EYP-1901

At the 2025 American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) meeting in Long Beach, California, Yasha S. Modi, MD, associate professor of ophthalmology at NYU Langone, presented end-of-study results from the phase 2 VERONA trial. This study evaluated EYP-1901, a bioerodible intravitreal implant containing vorolanib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), as a potential treatment for diabetic macular edema (DME), compared to the standard anti-VEGF agent aflibercept.

Modi highlighted that the VERONA trial demonstrated promising outcomes, showing stability in both visual acuity and anatomical measures out to week 24. Two doses of EYP-1901 were tested, and the higher 2.7 mg dose appeared to deliver superior results. These findings support advancement to a phase 3 trial, which is expected to proceed with this higher dose, although full trial details have not yet been disclosed.

TKIs such as vorolanib offer a novel approach by blocking VEGF receptors intracellularly, leading to a pan-VEGF suppression. This mechanism may allow for greater durability of effect—potentially extending dosing intervals to six months—compared to current therapies. Modi noted the growing landscape of TKI-based treatments as a positive development, offering retina specialists more options for personalized patient care.

A notable feature of EYP-1901 is its delivery system. Administered in-office via a 22-gauge needle, the bioerodible implant is gradually absorbed, reducing long-term intraocular burden. This convenience and compatibility with existing clinical workflows make it an attractive option for both physicians and patients.