The Genetics Podcast EP 225: Lessons from 20 years of building ocular gene therapies with Daniel Chung of Beacon Therapeutics
Feb 5, 2026
Daniel Chung, an ophthalmologist and CMO with 30+ years in ocular gene therapy including work on Luxturna. He recounts building the first approved ocular gene therapy. They discuss designing pivotal trials, choosing meaningful clinical endpoints, delivery and immunogenicity challenges, and strategies for treating earlier patients and larger genes.
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Two Strategic Paths In Ocular Gene Therapy
- Ocular gene therapy divides into monogenic rare diseases and common diseases like AMD needing durable delivery.
- Gene-agnostic and optogenetic approaches offer alternative strategies beyond single-gene replacement.
Prefer Later‑Stage Programs With Strong Phase II Data
- Prioritize programs with strong phase II clinical data when joining or investing in companies.
- Use experienced CMC and clinical teams to de-risk late-stage development.
Pivotal Success Hinges On Ops, Endpoints, Delivery
- Manufacturing, endpoints, payer acceptance and surgical delivery drive pivotal trial success.
- Training surgeons and centralizing expertise reduces site-to-site variability.