Spain’s RETISOM Trial Tests Neuroprotective Eye Drops to Halt Diabetic Retinopathy Progression

New Eye Drops Offer Hope in fight Against Diabetic Retinopathy

Published: February 10, 2026

promising New Treatment Under Investigation

A novel treatment for diabetic retinopathy (DR), a leading cause of preventable vision loss, is currently being evaluated in a clinical trial across ten Spanish hospitals and clinics. The research, sponsored by BCN Peptides, centers around an experimental eye drop designed too halt the progression of this debilitating disease.

Unlike current interventions, this potential therapy adopts a neuroprotective approach, aiming to prevent damage before it becomes severe – potentially eliminating the need for more invasive procedures like laser treatments or injections.

Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy affects approximately 15% of individuals in Spain with type 2 diabetes, according to recent data, and ofen develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that over 45% of Americans with diabetes have diabetic retinopathy. Early detection and intervention are critical to preserving vision.

The new treatment focuses on addressing retinal neurodegeneration, considered one of the initial events in the growth of DR, a unique strategy compared to existing methods that target vascular damage after it has already occurred.

How the new Eye Drops Work

The investigational eye drops, known as BCN070660, contain 0.1% somatostatin, a naturally occurring substance produced by the retina. Studies have shown that somatostatin levels decline in diabetic patients, correlating with inflammation, neuronal damage, and a breakdown of the retinal vascular barrier. By replenishing this vital substance, the eye drops aim to protect retinal cells.

The Spanish Society of Retina and Vitreous has highlighted this approach as a potentially groundbreaking method for the non-invasive prevention of DR.

Building on Previous Research: The EUROCONDOR Project

The current trial, named RETISOM, builds on the foundations laid by the European project EUROCONDOR, initiated in 2013.EUROCONDOR assessed the impact of neuroprotective eye drops on slowing retinal degeneration in patients with nonproliferative DR.

Results from EUROCONDOR indicated that somatostatin eye drops could slow disease progression, reduce microvascular lesions, and even improve visual acuity in some of the 300 patients followed for two years, all while maintaining a favorable safety profile.

Trial Details and Participating Institutions

RETISOM is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving prominent institutions including Bellvitge University Hospital, the Vall D’Hebron Research Institute, and the Baviera Clinic. Recruitment began in 2024, and each participant will be monitored for 24 months, receiving either the BCN070660 drops or a placebo twice daily.

Researchers will utilize advanced imaging techniques—including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography, and multifocal electroretinography—to track the progression of microaneurysms, neuronal function, and the potential development of complications like macular edema or neovascularization.

What’s Next? Looking at the timeline

According to clinical trial registries, data collection is expected to conclude between 2025 and 2026. Preliminary results could be presented by the end of 2026 or early 2027, paving the way for potential regulatory submissions to the European medicines Agency (EMA) and the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS).

Phase	Timeline
Recruitment	Began 2024
Data Collection	2024 – 2026
Results Presentation	Late 2026 – Early 2027
Regulatory Submissions	Following Results

Current Treatments vs. This New Approach

Current standards of care for diabetic retinopathy include anti-VEGF injections (Lucentis, Eylea, Vabysmo, Avastin), which require repeated administrations, and laser photocoagulation, which can cause irreversible peripheral retinal damage. The new eye drops aren’t positioned as a replacement for these therapies in advanced cases, but rather as a preventative measure to delay or potentially avoid the need for such interventions.

potential Impact on Patient Care

If RETISOM’s findings mirror those of EUROCONDOR,this eye drop could shift the paradigm towards proactive prevention of diabetic retinopathy,reducing complications and lessening the burden on healthcare systems. Do you think a preventative approach to DR treatment could become more widespread in the future? And how important is it to explore non-invasive options for managing chronic diseases?

Share this article and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

What are the expected benefits of the neuroprotective eye drops studied in the RETISOM trial for patients wiht diabetic retinopathy?

Spain’s RETISOM Trial Tests Neuroprotective Eye drops to halt Diabetic retinopathy Progression

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) remains a leading cause of vision loss globally,impacting millions living with diabetes. Current treatments, like laser photocoagulation and anti-VEGF injections, manage the condition but often require repeated interventions and don’t always restore lost vision. Now, a groundbreaking clinical trial in Spain, known as RETISOM, is investigating a novel approach: neuroprotective eye drops designed to halt the progression of this debilitating disease.

Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy & The Neurodegeneration Link

Traditionally, DR was viewed primarily as a vascular disease – damage to the blood vessels in the retina. however, increasing evidence points to a important neurodegenerative component. High blood sugar levels don’t just harm blood vessels; they also damage the retinal neurons themselves. This neuronal damage contributes significantly to vision loss, even before extensive vascular changes occur.

The RETISOM trial focuses on this neurodegenerative aspect, aiming to protect and preserve these vital nerve cells. This represents a paradigm shift in DR treatment,moving beyond simply addressing vascular leakage to actively safeguarding neuronal health.

The RETISOM trial: Design and Methodology

The RETISOM trial is a Phase II, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. This rigorous design is crucial for establishing the efficacy and safety of the investigational eye drops. Here’s a breakdown of key aspects:

* Participants: Individuals diagnosed with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) – the early stage of the disease – are enrolled. This stage is characterized by microaneurysms and hemorrhages but without the growth of new, fragile blood vessels.

* Intervention: Participants receive either the neuroprotective eye drops or a placebo, administered twice daily for a specified period. The active ingredient in the drops is designed to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, key drivers of neuronal damage in DR.

* Assessment: Researchers are meticulously tracking several parameters to assess the drops’ effectiveness:

* Visual Acuity: Changes in sharpness of vision are monitored using standard eye charts.

* Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This imaging technique provides detailed cross-sectional views of the retina, allowing for precise measurement of retinal thickness and detection of subtle neuronal changes.

* Fluorescein Angiography: This test visualizes blood vessel leakage and identifies areas of retinal ischemia (reduced blood flow).

* Neurofilament Light Chain (NfL) Levels: NfL is a biomarker of neuronal damage. Measuring NfL levels in blood samples can provide an indication of neuroprotection.

How Do These neuroprotective eye Drops Work?

The specific mechanism of action of the eye drops is centered around reducing oxidative stress and inflammation within the retina. Diabetes creates a hyperglycemic habitat, leading to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS cause oxidative damage to retinal cells, triggering inflammation and ultimately, neuronal death.

The investigational drops contain compounds believed to:

* Scavenge ROS: Neutralizing harmful free radicals.

* Reduce Inflammation: Dampening the inflammatory response that exacerbates neuronal damage.

* Promote Neuronal Survival: Supporting the health and resilience of retinal neurons.

Potential Benefits of a Neuroprotective Approach

If prosperous, the RETISOM trial could revolutionize DR management. The potential benefits are significant:

* Disease Modification: rather of just managing symptoms, these drops could perhaps slow down or halt the progression of DR.

* Reduced Injection Burden: Eye drops offer a non-invasive alternative to frequent intravitreal injections, improving patient comfort and convenience.

* Vision Preservation: By protecting retinal neurons, the drops could help preserve existing vision and potentially prevent further vision loss.

* Early Intervention: The trial focuses on NPDR,suggesting that neuroprotection may be most effective when initiated early in the disease process.

real-World Implications & Future Directions

The results of the RETISOM trial, expected in late 2026, will be closely watched by the ophthalmology community. A positive outcome could pave the way for a new class of DR treatments focused on neuroprotection.

Beyond DR, this approach could have implications for other neurodegenerative retinal diseases, such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), where neuronal loss is a central feature. Researchers are also exploring the potential of combining neuroprotective agents with existing therapies to achieve synergistic effects.

Staying informed About Diabetic Retinopathy

Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and management of diabetic retinopathy. If you have diabetes,it’s essential to:

* Control Your Blood Sugar: Maintaining stable blood glucose levels is the most significant step in preventing DR.

* Manage Blood pressure & Cholesterol: These conditions can also contribute to retinal damage.

* Schedule Annual Dilated Eye Exams: Allow your ophthalmologist to thoroughly examine your retina for signs of DR.

* Report Any Vision Changes: Don’t delay seeking medical attention if you experience blurred vision, floaters, or other visual disturbances.

The RETISOM trial represents a beacon of hope for individuals at risk of vision loss from diabetic retinopathy. By targeting the underlying neurodegenerative processes,these innovative eye drops could offer a new and effective way to protect sight and improve the quality of life for millions.