Longevity biotech seeks to broaden its therapeutic capabilities with cellular reprogramming and delivery technologies.
Longevity-focused biotech Klotho Neurosciences revealed it has issued a Letter of Intent to acquire “select assets” from Turn Biotechnologies, a biotech specializing in cellular reprogramming and mRNA-based therapies. While the announcement disclosed that Klotho would gain access to Turn’s epigenetic reprogramming platform and RNA delivery technology, it did not provide clarity on which of Turn’s development programs would be included in the acquisition.
To date, Klotho Neuro had largely built its strategy around the klotho gene, first identified for its role in regulating aging and protecting against neurodegenerative decline. The company is advancing gene therapies designed to elevate levels of soluble klotho protein as treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and ALS, alongside diagnostic assays and related longevity-focused assets.
Earlier this year, Klotho announced plans to broaden its work beyond neurology into areas such as muscle and bone health. By combining its gene therapy programs with Turn’s cellular reprogramming technologies, the company says it aims to expand its pipeline to address multiple hallmarks of aging.
“By adding Turn’s ERA technology – which leverages six RNA molecules, including four of the Yamanaka transcription factors that can reset cellular age – together with the eTurna RNA lipid nanoparticle delivery platform, we are expanding beyond a single Klotho gene into a powerful system of cellular rejuvenation,” said Klotho Neuro CEO Dr Joseph Sinkule in a statement. “Coupled with Turn’s pharma partnership, this combination demonstrates both the scientific foundation and the commercial interest that position Klotho to pioneer therapies extending healthspan and addressing diseases of aging — from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s to skin, muscle, bone, and vision loss.”
Turn Bio’s ERA platform, developed at Stanford University and exclusively licensed to the company, uses RNA to restore youthful gene expression in cells. Its eTurna lipid nanoparticle system is designed to deliver those therapies to targeted tissues. The company has advanced several preclinical programs based on this approach, including TRN-001, which aims to repair damaged skin cells, restore follicle growth, and reduce inflammation. The company reported positive regulatory feedback in 2023 that it said supported moving this program toward clinical trials.
In 2024, Turn signed a licensing and co-development deal with HanAll Biopharma valued at up to $300 million for epigenetic reprogramming therapies in ophthalmology and otology. Klotho said this agreement would transfer as part of the proposed acquisition.
Turn’s other programs include formulations to restore cartilage in osteoarthritis, rejuvenate T cells to improve CAR-T therapy, treat glaucoma and other eye conditions, and regenerate muscle tissue. It is unclear which of these assets, if any, are included under the terms of the proposed transaction, although a spokesperson for Klotho Neuro told us that Turn would “continue developing” assets after the acquisition closed.
The proposed transaction, structured as a mix of cash and stock, remains subject to due diligence, a definitive agreement, and other conditions. Klotho also indicated it will rebrand following the deal and intends to bring over “key members” of Turn’s management and research teams.
