Interna Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Petach Tikva, Israel, announced a research collaboration with Tokyo-listed Daiichi Sankyo (TSE: 4568), conducted through Daiichi Sankyo‘s Research Institute Boston, to evaluate Interna’s Molecular Nano Motor intracellular delivery platform as a delivery enhancer for targeted therapeutic modalities. The collaboration will focus on integrating MNM molecules with Daiichi Sankyo’s targeting approaches to improve intracellular delivery, functional activity, and therapeutic performance across selected preclinical programs. Specific targets and indications were not disclosed. Financial terms were not disclosed.
The agreement establishes a framework for potential expansion into broader research activities and additional programs contingent on successful preclinical outcomes, structured as a technology evaluation partnership rather than a conventional asset licensing transaction. No equity component was identified.
Interna’s MNM platform is designed to enable direct intracellular delivery of therapeutic cargos, including siRNA and other nucleic acids and macromolecules, without reliance on conventional delivery systems such as lipid nanoparticles or viral vectors. The platform’s mechanism is described as an active, motor-like molecular process enabling membrane translocation and cytosolic access, distinct from passive endosomal escape approaches. Interna’s existing pipeline spans respiratory antiviral and central nervous system programs.
Interna was formed in 2024 through the merger of Aposense Ltd and its subsidiary SirVir, when the firm was backed with USD 10.25 million in funding including support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.