After a 6-month priority review, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Genentech's drug against age-related macular degeneration (AMD). LUCENTISâ„¢ (ranibizumab) is an antibody fragment which works by binding and inhibiting Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, VEGF-A, a protein that is believed to play a critical role in angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels). It will be administered via monthly intravitreal injections.

Genetech officials say Lccentis is the first therapy to improve vision in wet AMD patients. Highlights of the pivotal clinical studies that led to this approval are discussed in the company press release. A reply of a webcast by the Genentech management on the approval may be accessed until July 7 at the company website. Access numbers for this replay are: 1-800-642-1687 (U.S./Canada) and 1-706-645-9291 (international); Conference ID number is 1794492.