Bayer, NextRNA Therapeutics Agree to Strategic Collaboration to Develop Small Molecule Therapeutics

Image Credit: Adobe Stock Images/Ирина Батюк

Bayer and NextRNA Therapeutics have agreed to terms to co-develop small molecule therapeutics that target long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in oncology, with a focus on addressing diseases driven by these RNAs. According to the companies, the partnership will focus on disrupting pathological lncRNA interactions with RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) using NextRNA programs. Additionally, the joint venture will involve the advancement of two oncology programs, including one in early preclinical development, with Bayer having the option to select another target for joint development.¹

“With NextRNA’s exceptional expertise and lncRNA platform, we aim to advance novel small molecule therapeutics against a new class of targets in oncology,” said Juergen Eckhardt, MD, head, business development and licensing, pharmaceuticals division, Bayer, in a press release. “This partnership further adds to our mission to build one of the most transformative and diversified oncology pipelines in the industry.”

Under terms of the deal, NextRNA will receive up to $547 million in payments, research funding, and royalties, including up-front and near-term milestone payments for both programs. Additionally, Bayer will be granted access to NextRNA’s approach to inhibit the function of lncRNAs by disrupting the interaction between lncRNAs and RBPs with small molecules. According to NextRNA, its platform combines the computational engine NextMap with deep lncRNA biology expertise and a diverse set of biochemical, biophysics, and chemistry capabilities.¹

“We are excited to partner with Bayer, a recognized leader in life sciences and oncology innovation,” said Dominique Verhelle, PhD, MBA, co-founder, CEO, NextRNA, in the press release. “This collaboration recognizes lncRNAs as an exciting target class and confirms NextRNA’s position as both a leader in this space and a partner-of-choice for companies seeking to develop transformative small molecule therapeutics across disease areas. We look forward to working closely with the Bayer team to advance first-in-class cancer therapies while continuing to build our pipeline in oncology and neuroscience.”

Reference

1. Bayer and NextRNA Therapeutics Enter Strategic Collaboration to Develop Small Molecules Targeting Long Non-Coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in Oncology. BusinessWire. August 28, 2024. Accessed August 28, 2024. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240828587249/en