Apr 25, 2025
Astellas has entered into a research collaboration to develop innovative RNA-targeted therapies with xFOREST Therapeutics. This collaboration will leverage SpliceVerse, xFOREST’s proprietary technology platform, to explore small molecule RNA splicing modulators.
Under the terms of the agreement, Astellas will have exclusive rights for preclinical and clinical development and commercialization of compounds identified through this collaboration.
RNA splicing is pivotal for protein expression in eukaryotic cells. Modulating the RNA splicing process can help regulate protein synthesis and adjust biological functions. Recently, selective RNA splicing modulation has gained attention as a promising strategy to enable drug discovery for proteins that were previously thought to be challenging targets for small molecules.
Morten Sogaard, Ph.D., Head of Innovation Lab., Astellas
“We are excited to initiate our collaboration with xFOREST, leveraging its cutting-edge technology platform to screen selective splicing-modulators. These compounds will have a new mode of action to target ‘undruggable’ targets that traditional small molecule compounds cannot address. With our strong expertise of medicinal chemistry, we aim to explore innovative drug candidates for diseases without current effective therapies and deliver VALUE to patients.”
Kaoru Richard Komatsu, Ph.D., Representative Director and Chief Technology Officer, xFOREST
"We are honored to initiate the first joint research project with Astellas using our technology SpliceVerse, which has been developed in stealth mode and is specialized in RNA splicing drug discovery. This technology has the potential to deliver novel therapeutics for diseases that have been difficult to treat with conventional drug discovery approaches. Through this collaboration, we are committed to working tirelessly to deliver innovative therapeutics to patients.”