Bayer agreed to acquire Perfuse Therapeutics for $300 million up front, with the total potential value reaching $2.45 billion, as the German drugmaker looks to broaden its ophthalmology pipeline. Perfuse’s lead program, PER-001, is an endothelin receptor antagonist delivered via a slow-release, dissolvable implant for eye disorders. Perfuse’s Phase IIa data last year included improvements in glaucoma visual-field measures and diabetic retinopathy contrast sensitivity, with the implant dosed intravitreally about every six months. Bayer said the deal complements its existing ophthalmology expertise and commitment to developing therapies for conditions with significant unmet need.