Ipsen and Skyhawk Therapeutics have signed an exclusive worldwide collaboration to discover and develop novel small molecules that modulate RNA for rare neurological diseases.
 
The agreement includes an option pursuant to which Ipsen would acquire exclusive license for the worldwide rights to develop successful development candidates (DC). Following successful DC nomination, Ipsen will be responsible for all activities. Skyhawk’s platform accelerates building RNA-targeting small molecules across several therapeutic areas, including rare neurological diseases.
 
“We are delighted to join forces with the expert teams at Skyhawk, as we explore the potential for modifying RNA expression across rare and debilitating neurological conditions,” said Steve Glyman, SVP and Head of Neuroscience, Research & Development at Ipsen. “Our focus and expertise in movement disorders, and across our portfolio, is bringing best and first-in-class treatments to those with the highest unmet needs, now further fueled by this novel platform at the cutting-edge of research.”
 
“Ipsen is an extraordinary company with a deep passion for serving patients, and we are excited to partner with them to expand their pipeline of innovative therapies,” said Sergey Paushkin, Chief Scientific Officer at Skyhawk. “Our strategic partnership underscores our shared ambition to develop transformative medicines for people with rare neurological diseases for which there are no approved therapeutics.”
 
Under the terms of the agreement Skyhawk is eligible to receive up to $1.8 billion in development, regulatory and commercial milestones, including an upfront payment, for the option and research collaboration, plus potential for tiered royalties.