Core Viewpoint - PainReform Ltd. has initiated a development plan for OcuRing™-K, a patented sustained-release ocular therapy aimed at improving postoperative care in cataract surgery, targeting a significant market opportunity in the multi-billion-dollar global cataract surgery market [1][5]. Company Overview - PainReform Ltd. focuses on reformulating established therapeutics and developing AI-driven energy optimization technologies through its DeepSolar platform, reflecting a strategic commitment to applying precision technology across healthcare and sustainable energy sectors [10]. Product Development - OcuRing-K is designed as an erodible, intraoperatively administered device that provides sustained-release of ketorolac, addressing the limitations of traditional eye-drop regimens that often deliver less than 5% of the drug to the target site [2][3]. - The development plan for OcuRing-K includes progressing towards a Phase II clinical trial, with a focus on post-cataract pain and inflammation as the initial target indication [1][7]. Clinical and Market Context - Cataract surgery is a prevalent procedure, with approximately 4.5 million surgeries performed annually in the U.S. and a global surgical procedure volume exceeding $9 billion [5]. - Current postoperative management relies heavily on multi-week corticosteroid and NSAID eye-drop regimens, which are burdensome for elderly patients and often inconsistently delivered [5]. Technological Advantages - OcuRing-K's in-situ depot formulation allows for direct, localized delivery to target tissues, providing controlled and stable therapeutic coverage while reducing systemic exposure and contamination risks associated with traditional drops [3][4]. - Preclinical studies and Phase I evaluations have shown that OcuRing-K can reduce post-surgical pain and inflammation with lower total drug exposure compared to standard regimens, enhancing patient compliance [4]. Future Plans - PainReform and LayerBio plan to advance OcuRing-K through its next stage of clinical development in the U.S., which could unlock a high-volume reimbursable market and enable expansion into additional ophthalmic indications [7].