Bayer and NextRNA Therapeutics, a biotechnology company dedicated to developing transformative medicines targeting long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-driven diseases, have announced a collaboration and license agreement to develop small molecule therapeutics targeting lncRNAs in oncology. lncRNAs are a large class of therapeutic targets that interact with RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) to drive disease processes. Targeting lncRNA-RBP interactions with small molecules offers a novel approach to creating a new class of therapeutic agents.
In this collaboration, Bayer and NextRNA will jointly advance two oncology programs targeting areas of high unmet need. The first program, currently in early preclinical development at NextRNA, focuses on a lncRNA-targeting small molecule. For the second program, NextRNA will identify lncRNA targets using its platform, with Bayer having the option to select one target for joint development.
“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, M.D., Head of Business Development and Licensing at Bayer’s Pharmaceuticals Division. “This partnership further strengthens our mission to build one of the most transformative and diversified oncology pipelines in the industry.”
Through this agreement, Bayer will access NextRNA’s unique approach to inhibiting lncRNAs by disrupting their interaction with RBPs using small molecules. NextRNA’s proprietary platform, which combines its computational engine NextMap™ with deep expertise in lncRNA biology and a broad range of biochemical, biophysics, and chemistry capabilities, is central to this effort.
We are excited to partner with Bayer, a recognized leader in life sciences and oncology innovation,” said Dominique Verhelle, Ph.D., MBA, NextRNA Co-Founder and CEO. “This collaboration highlights lncRNAs as a promising target class and confirms NextRNA’s position as a leader in this field and a preferred partner for companies looking to develop transformative small molecule therapeutics across various diseases. We look forward to working closely with Bayer to advance first-in-class cancer therapies and continue building our pipeline in oncology and neuroscience.
Under the terms of the agreement, NextRNA will receive up to $547 million for both programs, including upfront and near-term milestone payments, research funding, development and commercial milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties on net sales.
