Artelo Biosciences enters glaucoma research with fully funded clinical study

Artelo Biosciences secured a fully funded investigator‑sponsored trial of ART27.13 for glaucoma with ethics and regulatory approval, and first patient enrollment is expected in the second quarter of 2026.

Artelo Biosciences announced a fully funded investigator‑sponsored study of its candidate ART27.13 in glaucoma patients and highlighted a related market analysis. The trial is set to be run by the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and is funded by Glaucoma UK and the HSC R&D Division. Artelo will supply the study drug but will not cover the trial costs. The company also drew attention to ongoing Phase 2 work for ART27.13 in cancer‑related anorexia and to a recent patent notice from the European Patent Office. Key details: - The trial is titled "A Pilot, Randomized, Cross‑Over Study to Determine the Effects of an Oral, Peripherally Selective, Synthetic Cannabinoid ART27.13 on Intraocular Pressure" and has received ethics and regulatory approval. - The study will be conducted by the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and is fully funded by Glaucoma UK and the HSC R&D Division; Artelo will supply the investigational drug but will not pay trial costs. - ART27.13 is described as a peripherally selective synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist intended to modulate intraocular pressure while limiting central nervous system effects. - A Vanderbilt Report cited in the article valued the global glaucoma market at $9.46 billion in 2025 and projected growth to $16.3 billion by 2033, noting a gap between rising patient numbers and treatment innovation. - ART27.13 is also in a Phase 2 study for cancer‑related anorexia, with interim CAReS data reported as showing improvements in body weight, lean mass, and physical activity. - The article mentions Artelo implemented a 1‑for‑3 reverse stock split on March 10, 2026, and reported that shares traded up about 50%. Summary: The announcement adds a glaucoma program to Artelo's clinical pipeline through an investigator‑sponsored, externally funded trial that preserves the company's data rights while limiting its financial outlay. Enrollment is expected in Q2 2026 and the study proceeds under existing ethics and regulatory approvals.