Sarepta Partners with Arrowhead for RNAi Medicines in $10B Deal to Expand Rare Disease Pipeline

In a strategic maneuver to shift towards RNAi-based medicines, Sarepta Therapeutics has entered a landmark partnership with Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals. This deal involves a substantial $500 million upfront payment and a $325 million equity investment, potentially amounting to $10 billion with additional milestone payments[1][2]. The collaboration grants Sarepta access to four clinical-stage treatments, enhancing its drug pipeline which had been perceived as lagging[2]. By diversifying into RNAi technologies, Sarepta aims to expand its focus beyond gene therapy, tapping into Arrowhead's expertise in rare genetic diseases and TRiM technology[1]. This strategic pivot is seen as a means to bolster Sarepta's market position while maintaining financial resilience, with analysts regarding it as a positive step towards future growth and expanded treatment options for rare disease patients[2].