Bayer and NextRNA Therapeutics Collaborate on $547 Million Deal to Develop Innovative Cancer Therapies Targeting Long Non-Coding RNAs

Partnership Details:
Bayer and NextRNA Therapeutics have entered a strategic collaboration to develop small molecule therapeutics targeting long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in oncology, with a potential financial commitment of up to $547 million.

Focus on Oncology:
The collaboration aims to advance two oncology programs in high unmet need indications, leveraging NextRNA’s proprietary technology to target lncRNAs.

NextRNA’s Platform:
NextRNA’s platform combines computational engine NextMap™ with deep lncRNA biology expertise to identify and disrupt lncRNA-RBP interactions with small molecules.

Bayer’s Commitment:
Bayer gains access to NextRNA’s differentiated approach and will have the option to select one target for joint development, further strengthening its precision oncology development portfolio.

Financial Terms:
NextRNA will receive up to $547 million, including upfront and near-term milestone payments, research funding, and development and commercial milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties on net sales.

Impact on Cancer Treatment:
The partnership underscores a growing focus on lncRNA as a novel target class in oncology, potentially opening up new therapeutic avenues for cancers with few existing treatment options.