AOA 2025: LNZ100 clinical trial insights from Dr Marc Bloomenstein

Marc Bloomenstein, OD, FAAO, of Scottsdale, Arizona, provides an enthusiastic overview of a new presbyopia treatment developed by LENZ Therapeutics. Speaking from the American Optometric Association meeting in Minneapolis, he highlighted the upcoming PDUFA date of August 8 for unique molecule LNZ100, or 1.75% aceclidine. The aceclidine molecule represents a significant advancement in presbyopia treatment. Unlike traditional approaches, it is ciliary body sparing and primarily works on the iris sphincter, creating a small depth of focus without inducing a myopic shift. This innovative mechanism sets it apart from existing presbyopia treatments.

As a clinical investigator in the clinical trials, Bloomenstein offered firsthand insights into the drug's performance. During extensive 10-hour trials, he witnessed transformative patient experiences. Patients who initially arrived wearing reading glasses were able to see clearly without them after approximately 30 minutes of treatment. The trial data were particularly impressive, with 70% of patients experiencing 3 lines of visual acuity improvement at near vision after 10 hours. Bloomenstein emphasized not just the statistical improvements, but the functional vision enhancements. Patients could effectively read phones, tablets, and perform complex tasks with improved visual clarity.

One compelling anecdote involved a competitive truck driver who participated in the study. She noted significant vision improvements in her dim cab environment, suggesting the treatment could potentially enhance professional performance and daily functionality. Bloomenstein's primary excitement stemmed from the potential to dramatically improve patients' quality of life. The treatment offers a promising solution for presbyopia, addressing vision challenges that traditionally limit individuals' daily activities and professional capabilities. He passionately encourages health care professionals and interested parties to research the aceclidine product, highlighting its potential to revolutionize presbyopia treatment. The August 8 PDUFA date represents a critical milestone for this innovative therapeutic approach. Bloomenstein underscored the treatment's potential to provide patients with enhanced visual capabilities, reduced dependency on reading glasses, and improved overall vision functionality across near and distance perspectives.