Character Biosciences announced a collaboration with Bausch + Lomb to develop treatments for patients with AMD. This relationship, initiated in 2024, brings together Bausch + Lomb's expertise in ophthalmology with Character Bio’s integrated patient data platform ​and AI-powered analytical engine​ to drive novel drug discovery and development, Character Biosciences said in a press release. The partnership will initially focus on AMD, with the potential to expand into other eye conditions.

Under the terms of this multi-target drug discovery collaboration agreement, Character Biosciences said it has received an upfront payment and annual research funding, and said it is eligible for potential development and sales-related milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties on potential future product sales. In addition, subject to certain closing conditions, Bausch + Lomb will make a strategic equity investment in Character Biosciences, the press release stated.

"This collaboration represents a pivotal step in applying a data-driven approach to ophthalmology drug development,” said Yehia Hashad, MD, chief medical officer and executive vice president of Research & Development, Bausch + Lomb, in the press release. “We aim to deliver transformative treatments to patients by uncovering novel disease mechanisms and accelerating the development of targeted therapies for AMD.”

Cheng Zhang, CEO of Character Bio, also stated in the press release, “The current standard of care in AMD leaves many patients without adequate options. By partnering with Bausch + Lomb, we’re taking a significant step toward unraveling the complexities of this disease and developing effective personalized treatments to patients facing irreversible vision loss.”