Pharma BD Deal Intelligence
On June 3, 2026, Eli Lilly and Boston-based Ascidian Therapeutics entered a global research collaboration and exclusive license agreement to discover and develop RNA exon editing therapies for undisclosed monogenic (inherited) kidney diseases, with an option to expand to additional targets. Lilly gains exclusive rights to apply Ascidian's RNA exon-editing platform — which replaces faulty stretches of RNA rather than permanently altering DNA — against certain kidney targets. Ascidian leads early research and some preclinical work; Lilly is responsible for later development, manufacturing and commercialization. Ascidian is eligible for up to $1.9 billion including an undisclosed upfront payment plus development, regulatory and sales milestones and tiered royalties. The pact follows Ascidian's 2024 Roche neurology collaboration, giving the company major-pharma partners in two areas: Roche in neurology, Lilly in genetic kidney disease.