A new facility is to open in Darlington, researching new RNA therapies which could help tackle cancer, heart conditions and other diseases.

The facility is backed by £29.6 million of government funding.

The UK RNA Biofoundry will help UK scientists and businesses working in RNA research to get their ideas out of the laboratory, and onto the market, sooner.
 

Science Minister Lord Vallance said: "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.

"This new biofoundry will accelerate the journey RNA therapies take from labs to the markets, to give our innovators the best opportunities to turn their great ideas into the lifesaving treatments for our NHS patients, and faster.

"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."

Health minister, Stephen Kinnock, said: "This investment is exactly the kind of approach that will pull our health service into the 21st century.

"RNA therapies hold extraordinary promise for patients battling some of our most devastating diseases – from cancer to cardiovascular conditions that claim far too many lives each year.

"Our Plan for Change is turbocharging the development of life-changing treatments right here in the UK, as we deliver an NHS which is truly fit for the future."