Words by Jade Williams
Eli Lilly has entered into a research collaboration with Genetic Leap, a private company focused on AI, to advance the development of RNA-based genetic medicines.
The agreement provides Lilly with access to Genetic Leap’s proprietary AI platform, which will be used to drive innovation in RNA-based therapies. RNA-targeted medicines are a key focus area for Eli Lilly. Genetic medicines, which target the genetic cause of a disease, account for more than 25% of drug candidates in development at the company, according to Reuters.
The industry as a whole is increasingly using AI to speed up drug discovery, streamline clinical trials and more. AI is proving particularly valuable in reducing the number of human participants required for early-stage trials, which can significantly reduce development costs and trial timelines.
In a related move, Eli Lilly also partnered with OpenAI in June 2024 to explore the development of antimicrobials that target drug-resistant bacteria. French pharmaceutical company Sanofi also launched a collaboration with OpenAI in May to integrate AI into its drug development pipeline.
Biopharmaceutical companies around the world are stepping up efforts to develop therapies that manipulate and exploit RNA technologies. The collaboration with Genetic Leap reflects the growing importance of AI in unlocking new opportunities for RNA-based therapies. Under the terms of the agreement, Genetic Leap stands to receive up to 409m (USD) in upfront and milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties.
