China-based startup Rona Therapeutics has obtained worldwide exclusive rights to Sanofi's siRNA platform of chemical modification and delivery moiety as well as rights to four pre-clinical candidates for undisclosed targets.

These rights will enable Rona to significantly expand and accelerate Rona's siRNA portfolio in both liver and non-liver applications. The technology platform is a strategic fit for Rona in establishing industry-leading oligonucleotide modification, delivery and RNA biology expertise across a rapidly growing pipeline.

In addition, Sanofi receives an exclusive option for selected neuro and muscular candidates discovered using the siRNA platform for territories outside of mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macao (Greater China).

Under the deal, Rona also acquired rights to further develop, manufacture and commercialize candidates from four liver-targeting preclinical programs. Based on novel nucleotide analogs and conjugation moiety, the siRNA platform has demonstrated enhanced stability and in vivo duration of action as well as potential for therapeutic silencing of target genes in various tissue types.