Oculis Appoints World-Renowned Neuro-Ophthalmology Expert Mark Kupersmith, M.D., And Retina Specialist Sebastian Wolf, M.D., Ph.D., As Chief Medical Advisors

Oculis Holding AG, a global biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative treatments for ophthalmic and neuro-ophthalmic diseases with significant unmet needs, has announced the appointment of two leading experts as Chief Medical Advisors. Mark Kupersmith, M.D., has been named Chief Medical Advisor for Neuro-Ophthalmology, and Sebastian Wolf, M.D., Ph.D., has been appointed Chief Medical Advisor for Ophthalmology.

These appointments come at a time of strong progress for Oculis across its diverse and differentiated pipeline. Over the past year, the company has completed enrollment in both Phase 3 DIAMOND trials with OCS-01 in diabetic macular edema, a program that could potentially deliver a transformative therapy for patients with vision-threatening disease. Additionally, Oculis has reached alignment with the U.S. FDA on the first-ever genotype-based development program in ophthalmology with Licaminlimab (OCS-02), which is designed to advance precision medicine approaches in dry eye disease.

Riad Sherif, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Oculis, stated,“I am honored that Mark Kupersmith and Sebastian Wolf are joining Oculis at such a crucial moment. Their scientific expertise and rigor, with Mark’s forty years of pioneering work in neuro-ophthalmology and Sebastian’s extensive experience in retina and imaging, will significantly contribute to the next phase of Oculis’ journey as a potential leader in ophthalmology and neuro-ophthalmology.”

Arshad Khanani, M.D., M.A., FASRS, member of Oculis’ Board of Directors, Chair of Oculis’ Retina Scientific Advisory Board and DIAMOND trial Steering Committee, said in a statement, “Mark’s and Sebastian’s distinguished careers bring world-class clinical and scientific expertise to the Oculis leadership team. Their deep understanding of the pathophysiology behind optic nerve and retinal disorders, and as practicing clinicians, the profound unmet needs of patients, will complement the existing team in place.”

Mark Kupersmith, M.D., Chief Medical Advisor, Neuro-Ophthalmology, also added, “The ACUITY results of Privosegtor are compelling, showing for the very first time, in the same clinical trial, positive and consistent results with improvement of visual function combined with positive anatomical and biological measures of nerve cell preservation. I am highly motivated to work more closely with Oculis on the tremendous neuroprotective potential of Privosegtor as it could make a meaningful difference for patients suffering from various neuro-ophthalmic disorders.”

Sebastian Wolf, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Medical Advisor, Ophthalmology, remarked,“I have partnered with Oculis for many years and, as the central reading center for the most recent OCS-01 and OCS-05 trials, had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the promising clinical potential of what could be the first eye drop to treat diabetic macular edema with OCS-01 and the first treatment for acute optic neuritis with OCS-05. As a retina specialist, I believe the development of OCS-01 as an effective topical therapy represents a significant potential paradigm shift, enabling early intervention and a new treatment option for patients not adequately responding to the current standard of care.”

The company has also reported positive topline results for Privosegtor (OCS-05) in acute optic neuritis. This outcome marks an important milestone, as the therapy is being developed to preserve neuronal and axonal function, potentially addressing a long-standing gap in neuro-protection and opening new avenues for patients with neuro-ophthalmic conditions. Dr. Kupersmith brings extensive expertise spanning both ophthalmology and neurology, with decades of clinical and research experience. His leadership will be crucial as Oculis advances its work in neuro-ophthalmology, particularly in the context of the promising results for Privosegtor (OCS-05).

Meanwhile, Dr. Wolf, a recognized global authority in retina and imaging, joins Oculis during a critical phase of execution. His appointment comes as the company prepares for topline results from the Phase 3 DIAMOND program with OCS-01, expected in the second quarter of 2026, followed by a planned New Drug Application (NDA) submission in the second half of 2026. His expertise will play a key role in ensuring clinical and scientific excellence as Oculis progresses toward potential commercialization. Together, these appointments strengthen Oculis’ leadership team and support its mission to deliver groundbreaking therapies that address serious and underserved conditions in ophthalmology and neuro-ophthalmology.