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US-based Wayfinder Biosciences has entered into a collaboration with Japanese pharma firm Daiichi Sankyo to develop RNA-targeting small molecule therapies aimed at treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Wayfinder, a biotechnology company specialising in RNA-targeting technologies, has developed a platform that identifies potent and selective small molecules. These molecules are designed to bind directly to RNA, neutralising the harmful effects of disease-related genes. Unlike traditional drugs that often target proteins, this approach enables access to previously undruggable targets.
The company’s proprietary platform integrates RNA-based sensors and a data generation engine to provide scalable, quantitative insights into how small molecules bind to RNA. It also assesses their selectivity and biological activity. While the technology is currently being used internally for oncology research, it has broad potential across other disease areas.
This new partnership brings together Wayfinder’s RNA-focused platform with Daiichi Sankyo’s drug discovery and development expertise. The joint effort will support the launch of a programme to address a key target in neurodegeneration.
The collaboration is expected to accelerate the development of innovative treatments in a field where new therapeutic approaches are urgently needed.
