ER-100
ER-100, partial epigenetic reprogramming gene therapy (OSK)
The first partial cellular reprogramming therapy in humans: Life Biosciences dosed the first patient in June 2026, delivering three Yamanaka factors to retinal cells to reverse epigenetic age in glaucoma and optic neuropathy.
Overview
ER-100 uses a gene therapy to express OCT4, SOX2 and KLF4 in retinal ganglion cells, switched on by a course of oral doxycycline, with the goal of resetting the cells' epigenetic age without erasing their identity. The FDA cleared the IND in January 2026 and the Phase 1 in glaucoma and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy began dosing in June. It is the first human test of the approach that companies like Altos and NewLimit are pursuing.
Mechanism of action
Transient, inducible expression of three reprogramming factors (OSK) to restore youthful epigenetic patterns in aged cells.
Key studies & citations
- Human2026
ER-100 Phase 1 in optic neuropathies
First-in-human partial reprogramming trial.
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT07290244 - Human2026
Life Biosciences announces first patient dosed with ER-100
Dosing began June 2026.
Life Biosciences press release - Animal2020
Reprogramming to recover youthful epigenetic information and restore vision
OSK expression restored vision in aged mice and after optic nerve injury.
Nature
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as making stem cells?
No. Full reprogramming uses four factors and turns cells into stem cells. Partial reprogramming uses three, briefly, so cells become epigenetically younger but keep their identity.