BIO203

BIO203 is a novel, orally available small molecule norbixin amide conjugate being developed by Biophytis for the treatment of early and intermediate stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It is a hemisynthetic derivative of 9'-cis-norbixin, a carotenoid extracted from annatto (*Bixa orellana*). BIO203 acts by inhibiting the transactivation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and activator protein 1 (AP-1), which are key mediators in retinal inflammation and degeneration. Compared to its parent compound norbixin (BIO201), BIO203 exhibits enhanced stability, superior pharmacokinetic properties, and increased ocular exposure. Preclinical data suggest it protects retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) cells from blue light-induced phototoxicity and preserves visual function in models of retinal degeneration.

Other names

norbixin amide conjugate9'-cis-norbixin amide derivative