Raytone Biotech treats first patient in clinical trial of RTP-008 for dry eye disease

(Image Credit: AdobeStock/TatjanaMeininger)

Raytone Biotech has successfully treated the first patient in its clinical trial of RTP-008 for the treatment of dry eye disease (DED) with no significant adverse reactions observed post-administration.

RTP-008 was developed based on Raytone Biotech's iSus bioabsorbable sustained-release drug delivery platform. According to the company, the iSus platform utilizes “advanced polymer-drug composite technology to achieve precisely controlled drug release for weeks to months following a single administration.”

RTP-008 features a dual mechanism of action that addresses 2 aspects of dry eye in physical tear retention and sustained anti-inflammatory effect. The company notes that the hydrogel-based plug rapidly swells upon insertion into the lacrimal canaliculus, forming a stable physical occlusion that reduces tear drainage and prolongs tear retention on the ocular surface. Additionally, tacrolimus, a potent anti-inflammatory agent, is released continuously into the tear film, dispersing across the ocular surface to suppress chronic inflammation.

Ying Jie and Lei Tian, principal investigators of the trial, commented in a press release from the company, saying, "RTP-008 demonstrated promising efficacy and safety profiles in preclinical animal studies. The favorable tolerability observed in the first patient is an encouraging signal. We will closely monitor the patients and look forward to demonstrating robust clinical efficacy."

Yanbo Ling, CEO of Raytone Biotech, also commented, saying, “This milestone marks our transition from preclinical development to clinical trials, opening new possibilities for patients with moderate-to-severe dry eye. We hope our efforts will ultimately bring meaningful benefits to patients in need. Raytone will also research and develop other ocular drug-device combination products in parallel, while extending its mature products into the field of pet healthcare."

References:

1. Raytone Biotech Announces First Patient Dosed in Clinical Trial of RTP-008 for Dry Eye Disease. Published August 4, 2025. Accessed August 4, 2025. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/raytone-biotech-announces-first-patient-dosed-in-clinical-trial-of-rtp-008-for-dry-eye-disease-302520492.html