Merck KGaA and Skyhawk Partner to Develop RNA-Targeting Drugs

With a focus on finding new RNA-targeting small molecules in specific neurological indications with high unmet medical need, Skyhawk Therapeutics, a leader in the discovery and development of small molecules that modulate RNA expression, announces strategic research collaboration with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany.

The agreement states that Skyhawk will use its proprietary SkySTAR (Skyhawk Small molecule Therapeutics for Alternative splicing of RNA) platform to find small molecule candidates targeted at specific RNA targets identified by Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. The partnership aims to leverage Skyhawk's industry-leading RNA splicing modulator technologies and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany's expertise in drug development and commercialization to maximize RNA modulation opportunities in diseases where it has been challenging to date.

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"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," said Amy Kao, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Neuroscience & Immunology Research Unit, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. "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."