South Korean-based biopharmaceutical company Rznomics Inc is collaborating with Eli Lilly and Company to develop RNA-edited therapeutics for sensorineural hearing loss.
RNA, or ribonucleic acid, is a copy or a transcription of DNA.
Rznomics announced on 15 May 2025 that it had signed the strategic global research collaboration and licensing agreement with Eli Lilly to develop and commercialise novel RNA-editing therapies using Rznomics’ proprietary trans-splicing ribozyme platform.
It said the collaboration would focus on the discovery and development of RNA-editing therapeutics for sensorineural hearing loss.
Rznomics specialises in RNA-based therapeutics and is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing RNA-based gene therapies. Its proprietary trans-splicing ribozyme platform enables precise RNA editing and has broad applicability across multiple indications
Rznomics will conduct early-stage research according to the jointly approved research plans, while Lilly will assume responsibility for further development and commercialisation, the statement said.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Lilly, a global leader in pharmaceutical innovation,” said Dr Seong-Wook Lee, CEO of Rznomics.
“This partnership validates our trans-splicing ribozyme platform and opens the door to treating previously intractable diseases with precision RNA therapeutics. Together with Lilly, we aim to accelerate the development of transformative therapies for patients around the world.”
Rznomics said the partnership marked a milestone as it sought to expand its presence in the global biotech arena.
“For Lilly, the deal aligns with its broader strategy to build a leading RNA therapeutics pipeline and address high unmet needs in hearing loss and other therapeutic areas,” the statement said.
“If Lilly exercises all available options under the agreement, the total deal value could reach more than $1.3 billion, as well as separate royalties on product sales,”
In line with the mutual understanding between the two companies, the upfront payment was not disclosed.
