Skyhawk Announces Strategic Collaboration with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany to Discover Novel RNA-Targeting Small Molecules for Neurological Disorders

August 18, 2025

Dear Skyhawk friends and colleagues,

We are excited to announce a new collaboration with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. Please see the full press release below and related media coverage in Endpoints, Fierce, BioCentury and Bloomberg.

The collaboration is focused on the discovery of novel RNA-targeting small molecules in neurological indications with high unmet medical need, where traditional approaches have proven challenging – leveraging Skyhawk’s industry-leading capabilities in RNA splicing modulation and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany’s expertise in drug development and commercialization. The deal is valued at over $2 billion with Skyhawk being eligible for milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties on commercial sales.

“Our collaboration with Skyhawk aligns with our strategic focus on innovative science and next-generation technologies that have the potential to deliver impactful medicines to patients with neurological conditions,” said Amy Kao, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Neuroscience & Immunology Research Unit, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. “We believe RNA splicing modulation represents an exciting frontier in drug discovery, and Skyhawk’s expertise positions them as an ideal partner in this space. It is also in line with our mission in bringing more medicines to more patients, faster.”

We are proud to partner with Merck KGaA, a company with a strong heritage of innovation and a commitment to advancing transformative science, and look forward to working closely with their team to bring potential first-in-class medicines forward.

With warmest thanks for all your support~

– Maura and the Skyhawk team