Ray Therapeutics Raises $125M Series B to Advance Vision-Restoring…

Team S · 2026-04-21T14:38:29.000Z

US-based biotech startup Ray Therapeutics has raised an upsized and oversubscribed $125 million Series B funding round to accelerate development of its optogenetic gene therapies for blinding retinal diseases, reinforcing investor confidence in next-generation vision restoration technologies. The financing follows the company’s previously oversubscribed $100 million Series A and marks a major milestone as Ray Therapeutics moves toward later-stage clinical development of its lead ophthalmology programs. Founded in San Diego, Ray Therapeutics is developing optogenetic therapies that aim to restore vision by making surviving retinal cells responsive to light. Unlike mutation-specific treatments, the company’s platform is designed to work across multiple retinal degenerative diseases where photoreceptor cells have been lost. Its lead candidate targets conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa, while the broader pipeline includes programs for inherited retinal dystrophies and macular degeneration. These diseases currently have limited treatment options and affect millions globally, creating strong demand for durable restorative therapies. Optogenetics is considered one of the most promising frontiers in ophthalmology because it combines gene therapy with engineered light-sensitive proteins to potentially restore functional sight. Ray Therapeutics has focused on developing therapies that may not require external light-enhancing devices, improving real-world usability for patients. The newly raised capital is expected to support clinical trials, manufacturing scale-up, regulatory progress, and continued expansion of the company’s research platform. As gene therapy innovation accelerates, Ray Therapeutics is positioning itself as a leader in restorative vision medicine. With strong investor backing and growing momentum in precision ophthalmology, the company is now entering a critical phase where breakthrough science could translate into life-changing patient outcomes.

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Ray Therapeutics Raises $125M Series B to Advance Vision-Restoring… | Newnex