#China #Beijing #Dry Eye Disease #Raytone Biotech #RTP-008

Raytone Biotech Makes Groundbreaking Progress in Dry Eye Disease Treatment

Introduction
In an important advancement for dry eye disease (DED) therapy, Raytone Biotech, a pioneering clinical-stage biotechnology company, has successfully administered its first patient dose in a clinical trial for RTP-008. This landmark achievement occurred in the second quarter of 2025 at Beijing Tongren Hospital, an esteemed ophthalmological research facility in China. Under the guidance of Professors Ying Jie and Lei Tian, the trial aims to explore the efficacy of RTP-008, which is a bioabsorbable tacrolimus plug designed to alleviate symptoms associated with dry eye disease.

Significance of DED
Dry eye disease is a complex condition characterized by a compromised tear film and is accompanied by various ocular symptoms. The instability of the tear film can lead to inflammation and damage to the ocular surface, making effective management crucial. Traditional treatment methods often suffer from complexities that may deter patient compliance. By effectively addressing the underlying issues of DED—specifically, the balance between aqueous tear deficiency and evaporative issues—new therapies like RTP-008 may provide hope for patients affected by this condition.

Trial Overview
The first patient enrolled in the clinical trial had been diagnosed with moderate-to-severe DED. Post-administration, the patient tolerated the treatment well, showing no significant adverse reactions. This promising initial response is a positive signal for the trial as it moves forward.

Current Management Practices and Challenges
The management of dry eye disease remains challenging due to the heterogeneity of the patient population. Various approaches—ranging from physical interventions like punctal occlusion to pharmacological therapies—are employed, often requiring a combination of treatments. Patients may be prescribed multiple topical medications, leading to a complex regimen that can decrease compliance. Inadequate management may perpetuate a cycle of remission and relapse. Therefore, effective therapies that simplify this process while delivering desired outcomes are greatly needed.

Introducing RTP-008
RTP-008 is built upon Raytone Biotech's iSus® platform, which leverages advanced polymer-drug composite technology to achieve controlled drug release over extended periods. This innovative plug not only physically retains tears but also delivers tacrolimus, a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, to the ocular surface. Consequently, it addresses the root causes of DED while enhancing the patient experience through a simplified treatment process.

1. Physical Tear Retention: The hydrogel plug quickly expands within the lacrimal canaliculus, providing an effective blockade and prolonging tear retention on the eye surface.
2. Sustained Anti-inflammatory Action: Tacrolimus is consistently released into the tear film, mitigating inflammation while improving overall eye health.

Looking Ahead
Professors Ying Jie and Lei Tian are optimistic about the initial results, noting RTP-008’s strong safety and efficacy profile from previous studies and emphasizing the encouraging signs from the first patient. The clinical trial will continue to monitor their subjects closely. Dr. Yanbo Ling, the CEO of Raytone Biotech, expressed gratitude to the research team and highlighted the importance of moving from preclinical studies to human trials, emphasizing the potential benefits for patients with severe dry eye.

About Raytone Biotech
Founded in 2021, Raytone Biotech is committed to addressing the clinical challenges faced in traditional eye treatments. With a focus on ocular bioabsorbable technologies, its proprietary iSus® platform offers significant advancements, promising to enhance patient adherence to treatment regimens. The company's flagship product, RTP-008, showcases a novel integration of punctal occlusion with sustained drug delivery, aiming to achieve longer-lasting therapeutic effects for patients dealing with dry eye disease.

Conclusion
As Raytone Biotech embarks on this new clinical journey, the potential implications for the treatment of dry eye disease are promising. By innovating in ophthalmic therapies, the company aims to redefine treatment standards and improve the quality of life for countless patients worldwide.