A global cosmetics firm, L’Oréal, entered into an agreement with local biotech company OliX on June 29 aimed at identifying 'small interfering RNA (siRNA)' compounds that can enhance the condition of nails and toe nails. These compounds represent a key component of 'RNA interference (RNAi)' technology, which effectively halts the activity of particular genes responsible for illnesses or the aging process.
Two firms had earlier entered into a collaborative research pact in June 2025 centered around siRNA technologies aimed at promoting skin and hair regrowth as well as addressing age-related changes. The latest agreement extends their partnership to include the nail care industry. L'Oréal is providing financial support for the study, whereas OliX will be responsible for discovering promising ingredients, highlighting their intent to extensively advance 'topical gene cosmetics' within multiple domains.
In recent times, major pharmaceutical and cosmetic corporations around the world have been actively acquiring RNA interference technology. This method effectively stops the creation of damaging proteins responsible for illnesses or aging within the body. It has potential applications in addressing baldness, aging, and weight issues, along with preventing the formation of proteins linked to untreatable conditions. This marks a significant change in how diseases are approached therapeutically.
◇Major pharmaceutical companies and cosmetics brands are looking towards RNA interference technology
Many medications have historically been developed to target harmful proteins that are already present in the body. In contrast, RNA interference technology works by blocking messenger RNA (mRNA), which contains the instructions for making proteins, at an earlier stage. This approach stops the formation of faulty proteins from the beginning.
Although RNA interference was originally used mostly for treating liver-related conditions, new developments in delivery systems that transport small interfering RNA molecules to tissues outside the liver—including fat, muscle, and the brain—have expanded its potential uses.
OliX is a prominent firm recognized for its innovation in delivering small interfering RNA to adipose, muscular, and neural cells. A Chinese biotechnology enterprise named Sanagen Bio has similarly attracted interest due to comparable breakthroughs.
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Major global pharmaceutical firms are actively pouring resources into RNA interference as a key innovation for future expansion. A prominent example is the Danish firm Novo Nordisk, recognized for its weight-loss medication 'Wegovy', which purchased the small interfering RNA (siRNA) expertise of Dicerna for $3.3 billion in 2021. The company intends to utilize this technology across conditions such as obesity, diabetes, long-term illnesses, and uncommon medical issues, with several projects now undergoing Phase 1 testing.
A Swiss pharmaceutical firm named Roche is partnering with American biotechnology company Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, which specializes in RNA interference technology, to jointly develop an injection medication that inhibits proteins responsible for high blood pressure. In March 2025, Alnylam obtained FDA clearance for a hemophilia therapy created through RNA interference techniques.
In 2020, Novartis collaborated with Alnylam to introduce 'Leqvio,' an injection taken every six months for individuals with elevated cholesterol levels. Currently, the firm is working on 'pelacarsen,' a newer type of siRNA medication aimed at 'lipoprotein(a),' which is a significant contributor to heart-related illnesses and does not respond well to current treatments. This drug has progressed to the last phase of clinical trials.
As per the European Medicines Agency (EMA), more than 60 clinical studies examining RNA interference therapies are being conducted at this time.
A market research company named Research and Markets predicts that the RNA interference market will increase from $4.4 billion (around 6.8 trillion South Korean won) in 2025 to $10 billion (roughly 15.4 trillion South Korean won) by 2030.