PainReform Acquires Majority Stake in LayerBio

PainReform has announced the acquisition of a majority equity interest in LayerBio, with plans to advance the company’s OcuRing-K technology into its next clinical trial.

OcuRing-K Technology and Its Application in Cataract Surgery

The OcuRing technology is a bioerodible sustained-release implant applied to the haptic of an intraocular lens (IOL) for use during cataract surgery. Once implanted, it delivers medications continuously to treat and prevent postoperative complications.

OcuRing-K is specifically designed to deliver ketorolac, an anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug, intra-surgically during cataract procedures.

This “dropless” alternative aims to eliminate challenges associated with traditional post-surgical eye drop regimens, which can suffer from poor patient compliance, particularly among the elderly, along with inconsistent drug delivery and steroid-related risks such as elevated intraocular pressure and infection.

Leadership Commentary on the Acquisition

“This transaction has the potential to position PainReform at the forefront of non-opiate innovation in one of the most common and impactful surgical procedures worldwide,” said Ehud Geller, Executive Chairman and interim CEO of PainReform. “LayerBio’s OcuRing-K is not just a product candidate—it represents a platform technology with the potential to disrupt the way we manage ocular pain and inflammation after surgery. By addressing the ‘dropless’ wishes of the ophthalmic market, we can improve patient outcomes and simplify treatment for providers. We see tremendous promise not only in cataract surgery, but in expanding this technology across additional ophthalmic and surgical indications.”

Continued Leadership at LayerBio

Following the acquisition, Ken Mandell, MD, PhD, current CEO of LayerBio, will continue in his role, guiding the company’s operations and product development initiatives.

Potential Applications of the OcuRing Platform Beyond Cataract Surgery

The OcuRing platform can deliver various ophthalmic medications, including corticosteroids, antibiotics, and glaucoma therapies. Beyond cataract surgery, PainReform and LayerBio plan to explore applications in glaucoma, corneal transplants, and anti-infective treatments.