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Cell therapy is emerging as a cutting-edge precision treatment in ophthalmology and is gaining immense popularity worldwide among people affected by degenerative eye diseases. Traditional therapies have limited the ability to halt or reverse the damage, particularly caused by diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma and retinitis pigmentosa. However, emerging cell and gene therapies hold the potential to change this landscape dramatically.
The global cell-based ophthalmic therapies market was valued at $1.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach approximately $7.1 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 21.3% during the forecast period. This growth is likely to be driven by advancements in biotechnology, an increasing prevalence of eye diseases and a growing demand for innovative treatments.
This hugely promising market, while witnessing rapid advancements, is still in the early stages of development and the prospects are majorly untapped. Companies with a strong presence in the ophthalmic market, such as Alcon Inc. ALC, Glaukos Corporation GKOS and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. REGN, are well-positioned to leverage this prospect, making them promising investment opportunities.
Growth Drivers
Cell and Gene therapy, particularly using adeno-associated virus vectors, is showing promise in addressing inherited retinal diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa and Leber congenital amaurosis by delivering therapeutic genes directly to retinal cells. Meanwhile, regenerative medicine techniques, including stem cell therapy and tissue engineering, are opening new possibilities for restoring lost vision and repairing damaged ocular tissues.
Technological innovations are also enhancing the space. AI-driven diagnostics and treatment planning are improving accuracy and efficiency, while advanced drug delivery systems, such as sustained-release implants and nanoparticle carriers, are enabling targeted therapy with fewer side effects. Additionally, the rise of telemedicine and remote monitoring through wearable devices is facilitating early detection and management of degenerative eye diseases, ensuring timely intervention and better patient outcomes.
3 Cell-Based Ophthalmic Stocks to Watch
Alcon: Within its Surgical business, Alcon has been gaining market share, driven by strong consumables, implantable and equipment sales. Its flagship lenses, Vivity, PanOptix and several new launches, including Unity VCS, continue to lead the category globally. The Vision Care segment banks on the strength of contact lenses and ocular health products. The company has been witnessing strong uptake from its expanding product portfolios. To progress with cell therapy, the company recently acquired a majority interest in Aurion Biotech, a clinical-stage company developing advanced cell therapies to treat eye diseases.