Eli Lilly struck a deal with Profluent to develop new forms of gene editors that could, in principle, insert entire genes into patients, as reported by STAT+. The collaboration is described as AI-enabled and focused on recombinase-based gene editing, with milestone payments that could reach $2.25 billion. The report noted that details such as the number of programs, disease targets, and the upfront payment were not disclosed, but the structure ties spending to development progress. The transaction fits Lilly’s broader push into genetic medicines, including investments in new gene-editing capabilities and related acquisitions. This expands the competitive gene-editing landscape beyond CRISPR-centric platforms by backing a recombinase approach designed for precise genomic insertion outcomes.