RayBalance occupies a unique position in the market by offering a treatment device-enabled, service-based solution targeting both ototoxic chemotherapy-induced hearing loss and occupational noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Our competitive advantage stems from a combination of scientific differentiation, a scalable business model, strong intellectual property, and a world-class advisory network, positioning RayBalance for long-term success in the hearing loss market.
Novel Photonic Energy Cellular Response Mechanism of Action:
RayBalance’s proprietary photonic energy treatment activates several novel cellular response mechanisms that supports cellular protection and repair in inner ear sensory cells, which builds on established mitochondrial modulation and oxidative stress reduction pathways. This scientifically validated mechanism contributes to our treatment’s efficacy in preventing and mitigating hearing loss across both clinical and occupational settings
Scalability of Our Treatment System:
The RayBalance treatment system is designed for scalability across both clinical and occupational environments, featuring:
- A treatment device designed for easy replication and distribution.
- A weekly subscription model with predictable, recurring revenue streams.
- A HIPAA-compliant cloud platform enabling remote compliance monitoring and treatment management.
- Flexible use cases, supporting at-home, clinic-based, and workplace treatments without compromising quality or oversight.
This service-based model ensures accessibility while supporting long-term revenue growth in both the oncology and occupational health sectors.
Intellectual Property Strength:
RayBalance maintains a strong intellectual property portfolio with four patent applications (three U.S. and one PCT international filing) covering treatment devices, dosing protocols, and therapeutic methods. Continuation filings are underway to further strengthen market exclusivity.
Strong Market Differentiation in Both Target Applications:
Ototoxic Chemotherapy Market:
-
Direct sales model targeting oncology clinics and healthcare systems.
- A $300 per patient per week subscription, a cost-effective alternative compared to sodium thiosulfate, which costs approximately $1,800 per week and requires in-clinic infusions.
-
14 to 20 weeks of treatment covering pre, peri, and post-chemotherapy care.
Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Market:
-
Direct sales to large employers, occupational health groups, and safety organizations in industries like construction, manufacturing, defense, and public safety.
- An annual subscription model priced at $50 per employee per week for up to 50 weeks annually.
- Designed to integrate into existing PPE programs and reduce hearing-related health and legal risks.
Strategic Collaborations and Exit Potential:
RayBalance is actively pursuing strategic collaborations with oncology clinics, medical device distributors, and occupational health networks to accelerate market entry and broaden distribution channels. Potential acquirers include:
-
Hearing aid manufacturers such as Sonova, GN Store Nord, and WS Audiology.
-
Cochlear implant companies such as Cochlear Ltd., Med-El, and Advanced Bionics.
-
Pharmaceutical and oncology groups seeking adjunct therapies for chemotherapy patients.
-
Occupational PPE manufacturers and worker's compensation insurers.
Risk Mitigation Strategy:
RayBalance has proactively addressed development and regulatory risks through:
-
Extensive preclinical validation: Seven preclinical studies have confirmed treatment efficacy and dosing safety.
-
Well-defined regulatory pathway: A De Novo submission is planned for chemotherapy-induced hearing loss following pivotal trials, with a 510(k) for noise-induced hearing loss using the chemotherapy submission as a predicate.
-
Non-dilutive funding strategies: $3.5M in grant applications submitted to NIH and DoD to reduce financial risk
Experienced Leadership and Scientific Expertise:
RayBalance’s leadership team brings decades of experience in medical device commercialization, regulatory affairs, and clinical development, collectively holding over 25 FDA clearances. The Scientific and Clinical Advisory Board comprises distinguished experts across oncology, otolaryngology, neurotology, auditory research, regulatory affairs, and clinical trial design, ensuring scientific rigor and strategic execution.
Key Team Members:
- Darrel Drinan, MS | CEO
- John Black, PhD | CTO
- Jesse Cole, PhD | V/P Eng.
- Noam Ziv | System Architect
- Decky Goodrich | CCO
- Elvira Cawthon | Director Clinical
Our Scientific and Clinical Advisory Board is an additional cornerstone of our competitive positioning. Composed of renowned professionals in fields such as oncology, otolaryngology, neurotology, optical engineering, regulatory compliance, auditory research, and clinical study design, this board has been pivotal in guiding our clinical protocols and regulatory strategies. Their collective wisdom not only enriches our approach but also facilitates access to essential industry networks, further enhancing our competitive standing.
Key Scientific / Medical Advisors:
- Hernan Goldsztein, MD | Scripps Clinic / Pacific ENT
- Lee Schwartzberg, MD, FACP | Renown / One Oncology
- Todd Austin, MD | Medical Director – Scripps Clinic
- Andrew Beros, MD | Scripps Clinic (ENT)
- Claus-Peter Richter, MD, PhD | Northwestern Vice Chair ENT Research
- Pete Weber, MD, MBA: CMO of Decibel Therapeutics.
- Naresh Bhavaraju, PhD | SVP Eng. – Biolinq
- Gunnar Trommer, PhD | Partner / Managing Director BCG X
Summary of Competitive Advantage
RayBalance’s treatment device-enabled, service-based approach offers a novel cellular mechanism, a differentiated business model, and a scalable treatment platform backed by strong intellectual property and scientific rigor. Combined with a high-value market opportunity and a clearly defined regulatory pathway, RayBalance is strategically positioned to lead the market in hearing loss prevention and treatment.