It is hoped the £30million development will help the UK keep its place at the forefront of a nascent medical science field.
The UK RNA Biofoundry will act as a springboard for new RNA therapies, potentially leading to major advancements in the treatment of conditions like cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and even dementia.
mRNA technology was key to the global Covid-19 response. This type of vaccine is much quicker to develop, highly adaptable and more accurate than traditional western medicines. However, continuing in this area of research is complex and costly without first establishing a dedicated and highly specialised facility.
‘RNA therapies are a new frontier in healthcare. With their ability to reprogramme our cells, and adapt to different diseases, they could be the answer to many treatments the British public are desperately in need of, tackling cancers, infectious diseases and more,’ said Science Minister Lord Vallance.
‘This new biofoundry will accelerate the journey RNA therapies take from labs to the markets,’ he continued. ‘It is a huge step forwards in delivering our Life Science Sector Plan, and will help us attract further backing for high-value British manufacturing that will drive growth in all parts of the country, including the North-East.’
The facility forms a key part of the UK Government’s Live Sciences Sector Plan. This also includes reforms to slash clinical trial setup time to less than 150 days, streamlining regulation and the NHS ‘Innovator Passport’, designed to expedite the introduction of new technology into the healthcare system.
Image: Mathurin NAPOLY / matnapo / Unsplash
Technology:
Plan to make developers of offshore wind pay for skilled jobs training
Decommissioned Nottingham power station earmarked for fusion energy
Leave a Reply