ENCELTO™: A New Frontier in the Treatment of Macular Telangiectasia Type 2 (MacTel)

Advancements in retinal care continue to expand what’s possible for patients facing progressive vision loss. One of the most significant recent developments is ENCELTO, an FDA-approved treatment designed for individuals living with Macular Telangiectasia Type 2 (MacTel)—a rare, chronic retinal disease that gradually affects central vision.

At Kovach Eye Institute, innovation is closely tied to patient access. Dr. Saad Ahmad recently performed the first ENCELTO procedure in Illinois, marking an important milestone in bringing this advanced therapy to patients in the region.

Understanding Macular Telangiectasia Type 2 (MacTel)

Macular Telangiectasia Type 2—often referred to as MacTel Type 2—is a bilateral, neurodegenerative retinal condition that typically develops in adulthood. Unlike more common retinal diseases, MacTel primarily affects the central macula, the area responsible for detailed, straight-ahead vision.

Over time, MacTel leads to the gradual loss of retinal cells, particularly photoreceptors, which play a critical role in visual clarity. As the disease progresses, changes in the retinal blood vessels may also occur, further contributing to visual decline. Symptoms can include blurred or distorted central vision, difficulty reading, and reduced contrast sensitivity.

Until recently, treatment options for slowing disease progression were extremely limited.

What Is ENCELTO?

ENCELTO is a first-in-class encapsulated cell-based gene therapy developed to help slow the progression of MacTel Type 2. Rather than relying on repeated injections or systemic medications, ENCELTO uses an innovative approach designed for long-term retinal support.

The therapy consists of a tiny capsule—about the size of a grain of rice—placed inside the eye during a minimally invasive surgical procedure. Inside the capsule are living cells that have been genetically modified to continuously produce a protective protein known as recombinant human ciliary neurotrophic factor (rhCNTF).

Once implanted, the capsule delivers rhCNTF directly to the retina, where it can support retinal cell health over time.

How ENCELTO Works Inside the Eye

ENCELTO utilizes Encapsulated Cell Therapy (ECT), a proprietary drug-delivery platform designed specifically for chronic retinal diseases.

The capsule is engineered to:

• Remain securely positioned within the eye
• Allow therapeutic proteins to diffuse outward to the retina
• Protect the implanted cells from the body’s immune response

By continuously releasing rhCNTF, ENCELTO helps protect vulnerable retinal cells and reduce the rate of photoreceptor loss, addressing one of the core drivers of vision decline in MacTel Type 2.

This sustained delivery model is what differentiates ENCELTO from traditional therapies and represents a major step forward in retinal disease management.

Who May Be a Candidate for ENCELTO?

ENCELTO is FDA-approved for adults diagnosed with idiopathic Macular Telangiectasia Type 2. Candidacy is determined through a comprehensive retinal evaluation, which includes a detailed review of vision, retinal imaging, and medical history.

Because MacTel affects patients differently, treatment decisions are highly individualized. A retinal specialist will assess whether ENCELTO aligns with a patient’s stage of disease and overall eye health.

A Milestone for Retinal Care at Kovach Eye Institute

The successful performance of the first ENCELTO procedure in Illinois by Dr. Saad Ahmad reflects Kovach Eye Institute’s ongoing commitment to advancing retinal care through early adoption of clinically proven technologies.

For patients living with MacTel Type 2, access to innovative therapies like ENCELTO represents renewed momentum in managing a disease that has historically offered few treatment options.

Learn More About ENCELTO and MacTel Care

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Macular Telangiectasia Type 2, understanding emerging treatment options is an important step in long-term eye health planning. Scheduling a consultation with a retinal specialist can help determine whether ENCELTO may be appropriate based on your individual condition.