Skyhawk Therapeutics Enters Strategic Collaboration with Merck to Develop RNA-Targeting Small Molecules for Neurological Disorders
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
Skyhawk Therapeutics, Inc., a biotechnology company specialising in RNA-targeting small molecules, has entered into a strategic research collaboration with Merck, a global science and technology company. The partnership will focus on developing new RNA-targeting small molecules for selected neurological disorders with high unmet medical need.
As part of the agreement, Skyhawk will apply its proprietary SkySTAR® (Skyhawk Small molecule Therapeutics for Alternative splicing of RNA) platform to identify small molecule candidates for RNA targets chosen by Merck. The collaboration seeks to advance RNA modulation as a treatment approach in areas where conventional methods have shown limited success, combining Skyhawk’s expertise in RNA splicing modulation with Merck’s drug development and commercialisation capabilities.
Skyhawk will lead the discovery and preclinical development activities. Merck will take on responsibility for later-stage development and commercialisation, following the exercise of its option. The agreement is valued at over $2 billion, with Skyhawk eligible to receive milestone payments and tiered royalties on future product sales.
Source: prnewswire.com
