Global CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Product Type;
Exon Skipping Oligonucleotides, Splice Switching Oligonucleotides, and Antisense Oligonucleotides Targeting Non-Code RNAsBy Indication;
Hereditary Transthyretin Amyloidosis (hATTR)/ Polyneuropathy, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and Huntington’s DiseaseBy Distribution Channel;
Hospital Pharmacy, Retail Pharmacy, and Online PharmacyBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market Overview
CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market (USD Million)
CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market was valued at USD 17,208.05 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 81,595.97 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 24.9%.
Global CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 24.9 %
Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
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Base Year | 2024 |
CAGR (%) | 24.9 % |
Market Size (2024) | USD 17,208.05 Million |
Market Size (2031) | USD 81,595.97 Million |
Market Concentration | Low |
Report Pages | 342 |
Major Players
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals Inc
- Sarepta Therapeutics Inc.
- Biogen Inc.
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals Inc.
- Wave Life Sciences Ltd.
- Stroke Therapeutic Inc.
- Dynacure
- ProQR Therapeutics N.V
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Global CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The CNS-specific antisense oligonucleotide market is undergoing significant growth, fueled by the rising demand for precision therapies that address complex neurological conditions. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are specialized molecules designed to bind to RNA sequences and influence gene expression. Their application in treating CNS disorders such as spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Huntington’s disease has gained prominence due to their targeted mechanism of action. Over 35% of current ASO development pipelines are focused on neurology-related targets, underscoring the increasing interest in CNS-based applications within biotech R&D.
Therapeutic Advancements Driving Market Growth
Therapeutic advancements in ASO delivery and design have further propelled the market. With innovations improving blood-brain barrier permeability and prolonging CSF drug retention, new ASO therapies now offer enhanced patient outcomes with reduced treatment frequency. Clinical validation has also played a pivotal role—monogenic CNS disorders account for over 20% of known neurogenetic diseases, and ASOs offer a tailored treatment strategy with high specificity. Notably, nearly 40% of industry R&D budgets allocated to antisense platforms are directed towards CNS disorders, highlighting a major investment trend.
Collaborations and Pipeline Expansion
Collaborative efforts between biopharma companies and academic research institutions have accelerated ASO development for CNS indications. Currently, around 30% of all ongoing antisense clinical trials target CNS diseases, suggesting a strong pipeline of novel therapies. These collaborations are not only expanding the scope of treatable neurological disorders but are also shortening the development lifecycle, thereby enhancing the market potential of CNS-specific antisense oligonucleotides.
CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market Recent Developments
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In April 2023, Biogen secured FDA accelerated approval for Qalsody (Tofersen), a groundbreaking antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapy for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) carrying SOD1 gene mutations.This precision treatment, delivered via intrathecal injection, targets a genetically confirmed ALS subgroup.The approval represents a major advance in CNS-targeted ASO therapeutics, offering renewed hope for those affected by this neurodegenerative condition.
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In August 2022, Ultragenyx expanded its neurological pipeline by acquiring GeneTx Biotherapeutics, gaining full rights to GTX-102, an investigational ASO therapy for Angelman syndrome, a rare CNS disorder.The deal included a $75 million upfront payment and up to $115 million in milestones, bolstering Ultragenyx’s leadership in neurological ASO development.
CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market has been segmented by Product Type, Indication, Distribution Channel and Geography.
CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market, Segmentation by Product Type
The CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market has been segmented by Product Type into Exon Skipping Oligonucleotides, Splice Switching Oligonucleotides, and Antisense Oligonucleotides Targeting Non-Code RNAs.
Exon Skipping Oligonucleotides
Exon skipping oligonucleotides are one of the most impactful product types in the CNS-specific antisense oligonucleotide market. These oligonucleotides function by bypassing faulty exons in the gene sequence, thus restoring the gene's ability to produce a functional protein. This technology is particularly useful in treating genetic disorders such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). As of now, exon skipping oligonucleotides account for approximately 40% of the total market share, supported by continued research and trials. Their role in therapeutic applications for rare diseases is a key factor in their growing demand.
Splice Switching Oligonucleotides
Splice switching oligonucleotides (SSOs) are another critical segment of the market. These oligonucleotides target RNA splicing, ensuring the proper inclusion or exclusion of specific exons in the final mRNA. This action can correct splicing errors that result in diseases like SMA and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Currently, SSOs make up 35% of the global market, with robust research backing their potential. With numerous ongoing clinical trials, the future of SSOs looks promising, particularly for those with genetic CNS disorders that involve improper RNA splicing.
Antisense Oligonucleotides Targeting Non-Coding RNAs
Antisense oligonucleotides targeting non-coding RNAs represent the smallest market segment but are emerging as an area of high interest. Non-coding RNAs play a significant role in regulating gene expression and cellular processes. By targeting these molecules, antisense oligonucleotides can help manage diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson’s disease. This market segment currently holds a 25% share but is poised for growth as research into non-coding RNAs continues to evolve. As the understanding of these molecules deepens, the potential for antisense therapies targeting non-coding RNAs will likely increase, providing new treatment options for a variety of CNS disorders.
CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market, Segmentation by Indication
The CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market has been segmented by Indication into Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (hATTR)/ Polyneuropathy, Spinal Muscular Atrophy and Huntingtons Disease.
Each of these segments holds distinct promise in the development of CNS-specific ASO therapies, which offer innovative solutions for treating a variety of neurological conditions. As these therapies advance, the market is expected to expand, offering new hope to patients affected by these debilitating diseases.
Hereditary Transthyretin Amyloidosis (hATTR) / Polyneuropathy
Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (hATTR), also known as polyneuropathy, is a rare genetic disorder that leads to abnormal deposits of protein in tissues and organs, disrupting normal function. CNS-specific ASOs target the genetic cause of hATTR, presenting an opportunity to slow disease progression and manage symptoms. Research in this area has shown significant promise, contributing to a market segment that is poised to grow by over 30% in the coming years as new treatments are explored.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic disorder affecting motor neurons in the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy. The genetic defect in the SMN1 gene causes this condition, and CNS-specific ASOs have the potential to modulate gene expression and address the root cause of SMA. This therapeutic approach could slow disease progression and improve quality of life for patients. As clinical trials continue to show positive outcomes, the SMA segment in the CNS-specific ASO market is projected to grow by 25% annually.
Huntington’s Disease
Huntington's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that involves cognitive decline, motor dysfunction, and psychiatric symptoms. It is caused by mutations in the HTT gene, leading to the production of a toxic protein that damages neurons. CNS-specific ASOs offer a promising approach to silence the mutated gene and alleviate symptoms. As research into Huntington’s disease progresses, this segment of the market is expected to experience steady growth, with estimates suggesting a potential market increase of 20% over the next few years.
CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel
The CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Hospital Pharmacy, Retail Pharmacy and Online Pharmacy.
CNS-specific ASOs have emerged as promising therapeutic agents, targeting specific genes associated with various neurological diseases. These molecules work by modulating gene expression at the transcriptional or translational level, offering a novel approach to treating Central Nervous System (CNS) diseases.
Increasing Prevalence of CNS Disorders
A primary factor contributing to the rapid growth of the CNS-specific ASO market is the rising prevalence of neurological disorders globally. Diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's disease, and various forms of neuropathies are becoming more common, largely due to the aging population, lifestyle changes, and environmental factors. With this increasing burden of CNS disorders, the demand for effective treatments is growing significantly. As a result, CNS-specific ASOs are gaining traction for their potential in disease modification. This market is expected to see a growth rate of 15-20% annually over the next five years, driven by the demand for more effective treatments.
Distribution Channel Segmentation
The distribution channels for CNS-specific ASOs play a pivotal role in their availability to patients. The primary distribution channels include hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies. Hospital pharmacies are essential for providing ASOs to patients who are receiving treatment or clinical management for neurological disorders. Retail pharmacies cater to the needs of outpatient individuals, providing an accessible option for refills and new therapies. The rise of online pharmacies is another trend that facilitates easy access to CNS-specific ASOs, offering the convenience of home delivery and an expanding market reach.
Collaborative Efforts and Market Expansion
Collaboration between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare institutions is expected to accelerate market growth. Strategic alliances for distribution and marketing will likely enhance the accessibility of these therapies. Moreover, initiatives to raise patient awareness, improve healthcare infrastructure, and streamline regulatory processes will bolster market expansion. However, the high cost of development, regulatory challenges, and safety concerns remain hurdles that need addressing. Continued research and innovation are critical to unlocking the full therapeutic potential of CNS-specific ASOs, ultimately addressing the unmet needs in the treatment of neurological disorders.
CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America: Market Leader
North America dominates the CNS-specific ASO market, accounting for a significant share due to the presence of major pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and substantial investments in research and development. The region benefits from a high prevalence of CNS disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. North America holds approximately 40-45% of the global market share, positioning it as the leader in market growth.
Europe: Strong Market Position
Europe is a close second, driven by increasing healthcare expenditure, supportive government policies, and a growing geriatric population at higher risk for CNS disorders. Countries such as Germany, the UK, and France are key contributors to the European market. Europe is expected to maintain a market share of 30-35% over the coming years.
Asia Pacific: Rapid Growth Potential
The Asia Pacific region is forecasted to experience rapid growth in the CNS-specific ASO market, driven by improvements in healthcare infrastructure, rising disposable incomes, and increased awareness of neurological disorders. Countries like China, Japan, and India are anticipated to see a surge in demand for CNS-specific ASOs. The Asia Pacific region is expected to contribute 15-20% of the market share within the next few years.
Middle East, Africa, and Latin America: Moderate Growth
The Middle East, Africa, and Latin America regions are projected to see more moderate growth in the CNS-specific ASO market, driven by factors such as increased healthcare investments, improving access to healthcare services, and a rising disease burden. However, these regions are expected to contribute only about 10-15% of the market share.
CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Comprehensive Market Impact Matrix
This matrix outlines how core market forces—Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities—affect key business dimensions including Growth, Competition, Customer Behavior, Regulation, and Innovation.
Market Forces ↓ / Impact Areas → | Market Growth Rate | Competitive Landscape | Customer Behavior | Regulatory Influence | Innovation Potential |
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Drivers | High impact (e.g., tech adoption, rising demand) | Encourages new entrants and fosters expansion | Increases usage and enhances demand elasticity | Often aligns with progressive policy trends | Fuels R&D initiatives and product development |
Restraints | Slows growth (e.g., high costs, supply chain issues) | Raises entry barriers and may drive market consolidation | Deters consumption due to friction or low awareness | Introduces compliance hurdles and regulatory risks | Limits innovation appetite and risk tolerance |
Opportunities | Unlocks new segments or untapped geographies | Creates white space for innovation and M&A | Opens new use cases and shifts consumer preferences | Policy shifts may offer strategic advantages | Sparks disruptive innovation and strategic alliances |
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Rising Incidence of Neurological Conditions
- Breakthroughs in Genetic and Molecular Biotechnology
- Escalating Global Healthcare Investments
- Growing Geriatric Demographic Base
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Superior Precision and Effectiveness of ASO Therapies - Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapies are emerging as a transformative force in the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, largely due to their unmatched precision and therapeutic effectiveness. Unlike traditional drugs that typically target proteins or broader biological processes, ASOs work at the genetic level, binding specifically to RNA molecules to modulate gene expression. This high specificity allows them to directly address the root causes of neurological diseases, reducing the risk of off-target effects and offering a more refined approach to treatment.
One of the most compelling advantages of ASO therapies is their ability to treat complex and often incurable CNS conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). These disorders are often driven by single-gene mutations, making them ideal candidates for gene-targeted therapies. ASOs can either suppress harmful gene activity or correct dysfunctional gene expression, resulting in significantly improved clinical outcomes with a lower incidence of systemic side effects. This precise mechanism of action not only enhances patient safety but also enables long-term disease management.
What further sets ASO therapies apart is their ability to effectively reach the central nervous system. Through intrathecal administration, ASOs bypass the blood-brain barrier an obstacle that limits the effectiveness of many conventional treatments. This method delivers the therapy directly into the cerebrospinal fluid, ensuring higher bioavailability at the site of action. By targeting the CNS directly, ASOs provide faster and more efficient therapeutic responses, a critical benefit in treating progressive neurological diseases.
The growing adoption of ASO therapies is being fueled by increasing success stories and strong regulatory support. Treatments like Spinraza have demonstrated how ASOs can alter the treatment landscape for rare genetic disorders, gaining approval through accelerated pathways such as orphan drug and fast-track designations. As research continues to uncover the genetic basis of more CNS conditions, the demand for highly targeted, gene-specific treatments is expected to surge. This growing reliance on precision medicine is a major driver propelling the CNS-specific ASO market forward.
Restraints
- High Therapeutic Expenditure
- Low Clinical and Patient Awareness
- Regulatory Hurdles and Delayed Approvals
- Challenges in CNS-Specific Drug Delivery
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Toxicity Risks and Safety Limitations - Despite their promising potential, toxicity risks and safety limitations remain significant barriers in the development and widespread adoption of CNS-specific antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapies. Although ASOs offer precise gene-targeting capabilities, one of the primary concerns is the possibility of off-target effects. These occur when the ASO binds to unintended RNA sequences, which can lead to harmful side effects. Such unintended interactions could potentially trigger immune system responses, causing inflammation or other adverse reactions in the central nervous system or other organs. While ASOs are designed for high specificity, the complex nature of RNA biology means there's always a risk of undesired binding, highlighting the importance of rigorous safety protocols in clinical applications. Long-term safety also remains a critical concern. While early clinical trials and approved treatments like Spinraza have shown positive results, the long-term effects of continuous ASO use are not yet fully understood. Prolonged exposure could lead to the accumulation of ASOs in specific tissues, raising the risk of cumulative toxicity over time. For chronic conditions that require repeated ASO administration, it’s essential to establish long-term safety profiles to ensure that the therapy remains both effective and safe for patients. Furthermore, the intrathecal delivery method used for ASOs to bypass the blood-brain barrier poses additional risks, including localized toxicity in the cerebrospinal fluid and the spinal cord, requiring close monitoring.
The development of new ASO therapies is often slowed by the need for comprehensive safety evaluations. Since ASO treatments are relatively new, preclinical and clinical trials must be thorough to understand their full safety spectrum. These testing phases are often resource-intensive, requiring substantial time and financial investment. Regulatory agencies also impose strict safety standards before allowing any new ASO treatments to reach the market. This extended approval process can delay the availability of new therapies, restricting access for patients who may benefit from them. Manufacturers must navigate these challenges carefully to balance the promise of ASOs with the necessity for patient safety. Moreover, immune system reactions are another potential hurdle for ASO therapies. While ASOs are highly targeted, the introduction of these foreign molecules into the body can provoke immune responses, leading to complications such as allergic reactions or systemic inflammatory responses like cytokine release syndrome. These immune-related side effects could limit the broad use of ASOs in treating neurological disorders. Managing these potential immune reactions is essential for ensuring the safe administration of ASOs, especially as the demand for these treatments continues to rise. As the market for CNS-specific ASOs grows, addressing the toxicity risks and ensuring safety will be key to their widespread adoption and success in the healthcare landscape.
Opportunities
- Expansion Across Untapped Emerging Markets
- Innovation in Next-Generation Drug Candidates
- Rising Collaboration and Strategic Alliances
- Supportive Government Grants and Funding Programs
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Growing Emphasis on Precision and Personalized Therapies - The growing focus on precision and personalized therapies is opening up significant opportunities for the CNS-specific antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) market. As scientific advancements uncover more about the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying neurological diseases, there is an increasing demand for treatments that are tailored to the genetic makeup of individual patients. ASO therapies are at the forefront of this shift, providing a highly personalized treatment option that targets specific genes responsible for disease progression. This precise, gene-level intervention is particularly valuable for rare and genetically driven central nervous system (CNS) disorders that cannot be effectively treated with conventional, generalized treatments.
The rise of precision medicine is reshaping the healthcare landscape, and the market for CNS-specific ASOs is set to capitalize on this trend. By utilizing genetic information to design therapies that target specific disease-causing genes, ASOs offer a more focused and potentially more effective alternative to traditional therapies. For example, in diseases like spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and Huntington’s disease, ASOs can directly modify or silence the genes that are causing the condition. This level of precision offers great promise, especially for patients suffering from complex or rare CNS disorders where standard treatments often fail to deliver meaningful results.
As the healthcare sector increasingly embraces personalized treatment strategies, the demand for tailored therapies is growing. Advances in genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular biology are fueling the development of ASOs as a key component of personalized medicine. These therapies not only increase the chances of treatment success but also minimize the risk of side effects by targeting only the genes involved in disease processes. Personalized ASO therapies provide a more patient-centric approach, optimizing outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for those with neurological conditions. With more healthcare providers moving towards individualized care, the market for CNS-specific ASOs is expected to expand significantly.
Regulatory agencies are also showing greater support for precision medicine, offering expedited approval processes and incentives for developing personalized therapies. As research into gene-targeted treatments for CNS diseases continues to grow, the potential for ASOs to be utilized in a broader range of conditions increases. With a strong demand for more effective, individualized treatment options, ASOs are poised to become a central tool in the fight against neurological diseases. This ongoing emphasis on precision and personalized care is driving further innovation, expanding the market for CNS-specific ASOs, and improving patient outcomes across the globe.
CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market include:
- roQRQR Therapeutic N.V.
- Wave Life Sciences Ltd.
- Roche
- Alnylam Pharmaceutical Inc.
- GlaxoSmithKline Inc.
- GeneTx Biotherapeutics LLC
- Stroke Therapeutic Inc.
- Dynacure
- Biogen Inc.
- Sarepta Therapeutic, Inc.
- Q-STATE BIOSCIENCES, INC.
- Ionis Pharmaceutical Inc.
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Market Share Analysis
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Product Type
- Market Snapshot, By Indication
- Market Snapshot, By Distribution Channel
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Rising Incidence of Neurological Conditions
- Breakthroughs in Genetic and Molecular Biotechnology
- Escalating Healthcare Investments
- Growing Geriatric Demographic Base
- Superior Precision and Effectiveness of ASO Therapies
- Restraints
- High Therapeutic Expenditure
- Low Clinical and Patient Awareness
- Regulatory Hurdles and Delayed Approvals
- Challenges in CNS-Specific Drug Delivery
- Toxicity Risks and Safety Limitations
- Opportunities
- Expansion Across Untapped Emerging Markets
- Innovation in Next-Generation Drug Candidates
- Rising Collaboration and Strategic Alliances
- Supportive Government Grants and Funding Programs
- Growing Emphasis on Precision and Personalized Therapies
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market, By Product Type, 2021-2031 (USD Million)
- Exon Skipping Oligonucleotides
- Splice Switching Oligonucleotides
- Antisense Oligonucleotides Targeting Non-Code RNAs
- CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market, By Indication, 2021-2031 (USD Million)
- Hereditary Transthyretin Amyloidosis (hATTR)/ Polyneuropathy
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy
- Huntington’s Disease
- CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market, By Distribution Channel, 2021-2031 (USD Million)
- Hospital Pharmacy
- Retail Pharmacy
- Online Pharmacy
- CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market, By Geography, 2021-2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
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Latin America
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Brazil
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Mexico
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Argentina
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Rest of Latin America
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- North America
- CNS Specific Antisense Oligonucleotide Market, By Product Type, 2021-2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- roQRQR Therapeutic N.V.
- Wave Life Sciences Ltd.
- Roche
- Alnylam Pharmaceutical Inc.
- GlaxoSmithKline Inc.
- GeneTx Biotherapeutics LLC
- Stroke Therapeutic Inc.
- Dynacure
- Biogen Inc.
- Sarepta Therapeutic, Inc.
- Q-STATE BIOSCIENCES, INC.
- Ionis Pharmaceutical Inc.
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market