On May 24, 2024, TIA launched of its groundbreaking RNA Products Capability at UNSW, with the assistance of NSW Senator Tim Ayres, Chief Scientist Cathy Foley and UNSW Vice Chancellor Atilla Brungs.
This new capability is supported by funding from the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) of the Australian Department of Education. It aims to revolutionise the development and manufacturing of RNA-based therapies, addressing a wide array of medical conditions with unprecedented precision and efficiency. The four nodes are drawn from leading universities with expertise and infrastructure for translating RNA from discoveries into potential therapeutics, and already work closely together on collaborative projects. The nodes of this capability are:
Australian Centre for RNA Therapeutics in Cancer – University of Western Australia, led by Professor Archa Fox
BASE Facility – University of Queensland, led by Associate Professor Tim Mercer
mRNA CORE – Monash University, led by Professor Colin Pouton
RNA Institute – UNSW, led by Professor Palli Thordarson
The TIA RNA Products Capability leverages state-of-the-art technologies to design, produce, and deliver RNA molecules that can modulate gene expression, providing innovative solutions for diseases previously deemed untreatable. The launch event highlighted several key features of this new capability, including advanced RNA synthesis techniques, improved stability and delivery mechanisms, and scalable manufacturing processes.
Dr. Stuart Newman, TIA’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the potential impact of RNA-based therapies on personalized medicine. “Our new RNA Products Capability positions TIA nodes at the forefront of biotechnological advancements. By harnessing the power of RNA, we can develop targeted treatments tailored to individual patients, improving outcomes and reducing side effects.”
With the unveiling of the RNA Products Capability, TIA is poised to make significant contributions to the future of medicine, offering hope to millions of patients worldwide. This launch reinforces the importance of NCRIS support for the biotech sector but also heralds a new era of medical advancements driven by RNA technology.
