OC Business Journal

New eye mite focus for Glaukos puts it in competition with Tarsus Pharmaceuticals

DRUGMAKERS: Tarsus CEO expects to be first

■ By AUDREY KEMP

Two big Orange County companies have set their sights on combating tiny Demodex mites that often nest among eyelids.

San Clemente ophthalmic device maker Glaukos Corp. (NYSE: GKOS) recently entered a $5 million licensing agreement with Attillaps Holdings Inc. of Denver to research, develop, manufacture and commercialize investigational therapies for Demodex blepharitis, which occurs when mites infest the follicles of the face and eyelids, causing irritation and dry eyes.

The disease can lead to corneal damage, blurred vision and blindness.

While the disease is estimated to account for over half of the 45 million patients who visit eye care

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2021-11-29T08:00:00.0000000Z

2021-11-29T08:00:00.0000000Z

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