Leading ophthalmology CRO joins Octane’s network to support early-stage and emerging companies developing vision-restoring innovations

Newport Beach, CA — June 17, 2026 — Octane is proud to announce Lexitas Pharma Services as its newest Octane Preferred Advisor (OPA). Lexitas is the leading full-service clinical research organization (CRO) dedicated exclusively to ophthalmology, bringing 15 years of focused expertise across medical, scientific, regulatory, and clinical operations to Octane’s innovation ecosystem.

The partnership extends a critical resource to the founders, startups, and growth-stage companies in Octane’s network who are pursuing ophthalmic drug and device development — connecting them with a team that has supported more than 170 clinical trials across the full spectrum of anterior and posterior indications spanning Phase 1 through Phase 4.

“At Lexitas, we partner with small to midsize biotech and medtech companies to help them advance ophthalmic innovations that can meaningfully improve patients’ lives. We are helping to change the way people see the world,” said Jeanne Hecht, Chief Executive Officer and Chairwoman of the Board of Lexitas Pharma Services. “Partnering with Octane strengthens our ability to support early-stage and emerging organizations at a critical point in their journey, combining Octane’s expertise in helping founders build high-growth companies with Lexitas’ clinical development expertise. Together, we are helping innovators turn promising science into well-designed clinical programs built for long-term success.”

By the Numbers: What Lexitas Brings to the Octane Network

170+ clinical trials supported across drugs and devices, Phases 1-4

700+ investigator sites in their global network

22,000+ patients enrolled in anterior segment studies alone

40+ studies in the posterior segment, including cell and gene therapy and rare disease

5 FDA-approved products supported through clinical development, including Xiidra, EyeSuVIS, Inveltys, and Miebo

100% of major study milestones met or exceeded over the past 24 months

99% CRA (Clinical Research Associate) retention rate, ensuring sponsor and site continuity

15 years dedicated exclusively to ophthalmology — with no dilution across therapeutic areas

Their team includes ophthalmologists, optometrists, imaging specialists, biostatisticians, regulatory writers, and clinical operations professionals — all with deep ophthalmic expertise.

A Full-Service Partner from IND to NDA

Lexitas offers end-to-end capabilities purpose-built for ophthalmic development, including regulatory strategy, protocol design, medical monitoring, biometrics, medical and regulatory writing, project management, clinical operations, and an integrated Reading Center.  Through its strategic partnership with NAMSA, Lexitas further extends its expertise into medical device development and regulatory pathways, supporting programs across combination products and device-led innovations. In addition, Lexitas continues to strengthen its retinal and posterior segment leadership through the acquisition of Erie Retina Research, CASExERIE, and Element Erie—creating an integrated retina research ecosystem that enhances site access, scientific expertise, and specialized capabilities across the development continuum.

The company also developed the Lexitas Modified NEI Corneal Fluorescein Staining Scale© — a validated clinical endpoint tool that improves scoring precision and reproducibility in dry eye and ocular surface disease trials—and offers BCVA Certification Training to support standardized visual acuity assessments and data consistency across ophthalmic study sites.

“We are excited to welcome Lexitas Pharma Services as an Octane Preferred Advisor. Their exclusive focus on ophthalmology — and their proven track record supporting FDA-approved therapies — makes them an extraordinary resource for the founders and companies in our network who are developing the next generation of vision care. Lexitas brings both the clinical rigor and the human relationships that early-stage companies need most at this stage of their journey,” said Carol DiStanislao, Managing Director, Octane Capital & Growth.

About Lexitas Pharma Services:

Lexitas is the leading full-service ophthalmology clinical research organization (CRO). With unmatched expertise and precision in ophthalmic research, we deliver tailored approaches, rigorous quality standards, and unwavering commitment to operational success. Our team of experts, including ophthalmologists, optometrists, and clinical operations specialists, brings extensive medical, scientific, regulatory, and operational knowledge across all ophthalmology subspecialties. With a deep understanding of patient treatment pathways, provider and research networks, and market opportunities, Lexitas provides customized solutions that support your needs at every stage of development. Visit www.lexitas.com for more information.

About Octane:

Octane drives the growth of Southern California’s tech and medtech ecosystem by connecting people, resources, and capital. Since 2010, companies supported by Octane’s LaunchPad SBDC Accelerator and Capital & Growth platform have collectively raised $11.1 billion. Through initiatives like LaunchPad SBDC, a top-performing accelerator; Octane Capital & Growth, a resource for capital and scaling; Ignite Series, offering in-person and on-demand leading content; and the Octane Foundation for Innovation, which advances innovation, Octane creates a significant impact on the business community. Learn more at octaneoc.org.