Eli Lilly Partners with Genetic Leap in $409 Million AI-Driven Drug Discovery Deal

Eli Lilly has announced a partnership with Genetic Leap, a biotech company specializing in RNA-targeted drug discovery using AI models. The collaboration is valued at up to $409 million, including upfront and milestone payments. This move follows Eli Lilly’s recent investment in a $700 million nucleic acid research and development center.

Genetic Leap, headquartered in New York, uses AI technologies aimed at discovering RNA-targeted drugs, including both new targets and those previously considered undruggable. In 2022, Genetic Leap partnered with Astellas on a project to develop RNA-targeted small molecules against an undisclosed oncology target.

Under the new agreement, Genetic Leap will employ its platform to generate oligonucleotide drug candidates for targets selected by Eli Lilly in priority research areas. Financial terms regarding the upfront payment were not disclosed, but the partnership could reach a total value of $409 million if all milestones are achieved, with potential tiered royalties adding to the total.

This deal follows Eli Lilly’s recent expansion into RNA research, marked by the opening of a nucleic acid R&D center in Boston's Seaport district. The center focuses on advancing DNA and RNA-based therapies in areas such as neurodegeneration, diabetes, and obesity.

See also: Eli Lilly's Weight Loss Drug Shows Promise for Diabetes Prevention

Cover photo credit: JHVEPhoto, iStock

Topics: AI & Digital