Skyhawk Therapeutics, Inc., a company involved in the discovery and development of small molecules that modulate RNA expression, has announced a strategic research collaboration with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a science and technology company.

The collaboration will focus on the discovery of novel RNA-targeting small molecules in select neurological indications with high unmet medical need, the company said in a statement.

Under the terms of the agreement, Skyhawk will use its proprietary SkySTAR (Skyhawk Small molecule Therapeutics for Alternative splicing of RNA) platform to identify small molecule candidates directed at specific RNA targets designated by Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany.

The collaboration aims to expand the potential of RNA modulation in diseases where traditional approaches have proven challenging, leveraging Skyhawk's industry-leading capabilities in RNA splicing modulation and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany's expertise in drug development and commercialisation.

Amy Kao, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Neuroscience and Immunology Research Unit, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany said, “Our collaboration with Skyhawk aligns with our strategic focus on innovative science and next-generation technologies that have the potential to deliver impactful medicines to patients with neurological conditions. We believe RNA splicing modulation represents an exciting frontier in drug discovery, and Skyhawk's expertise positions them as an ideal partner in this space. It is also in line with our mission in bringing more medicines to more patients, faster.”

Bill Haney, Chief Executive Officer of Skyhawk Therapeutics remarked, “We are proud to partner with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany – a company with a strong heritage of innovation and a commitment to advancing transformative science. This collaboration underscores the power of our SkySTAR platform to address challenging disease biology through precise RNA targeting, and we look forward to working closely with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany to bring potential first-in-class medicines forward.”

Skyhawk will lead discovery and preclinical development efforts, after which Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany will assume responsibility for further development and commercialisation upon option exercise. The overall deal is valued at over USD 2 billion, with Skyhawk being eligible for milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties on commercial sales.