Scientists at the Australian National University (ANU) are collaborating with the community to unlock the full potential of ribonucleic acid (RNA).
RNA science was crucial in developing COVID-19 vaccines, but researchers at the ANU-based Shine-Dalgarno Centre for RNA Innovation (SDCRI) say that is just the start. Their work has received a $4 million boost thanks to the Australian Government's Medical Research Future Fund National Critical Infrastructure Initiative.
"mRNA vaccines helped get us out of the pandemic. But there are myriad opportunities to tackle more difficult-to-treat medical problems," said Centre director Professor Thomas Preiss. "But developing RNA therapeutics involves meticulous processes to ensure they are both safe and effective. This is why we are setting up the National Platform for Therapeutic mRNA Development."
The centre's work will initially focus on three pilot projects addressing inherited bone marrow failure syndromes, macular degeneration and lung cancer while also drawing on the potential of artificial intelligence (AI).
"By combining AI and advanced experimental models with over 250 years of RNA research experience, we can fine-tune RNA sequences to maximise their therapeutic potential while minimising adverse effects," said Professor Preiss.
"By collaborating with stakeholders, people living with disease and the wider public, we can ensure our innovations align with real-world needs and ethical standards," said Associate Professor Brett Scholz.
"Over the past couple of decades, consumer engagement has become increasingly important, but at the same time there's been a lot of uncertainty around how to do it well.
"While we were able to vaccinate a large percentage of the population relatively quickly during the pandemic, the rush to find a solution meant there was little time for engagement, which may have contributed to some of the scepticism we saw.
"We want the people who will be directly affected to be part of the decision-making about what treatments are necessary and what areas should be research priorities, to make sure we're spending time and money in areas that healthcare consumers deem important."
