RNA Accelerator
The RNA Accelerator is the core facility within the UNSW RNA Institute and the NSW RNA Production Research Network (NSW-RPRN).
It is the institute’s nucleus, designed to expedite the discovery, manufacture and – crucially – pre-clinical trials of RNA-based therapeutics and other products. The Accelerator will supply high-quality RNA and nanoparticle formulations under ISO-9001/GLP conditions for pre-clinical studies.
Supported by UNSW and the NSW Office for Health and Medical Research, the Accelerator is primed for action with three pilot projects within the NSW-RPRN:
- Messenger RNA (mRNA) delivery pilot project
- Better RNA nanoparticle delivery systems for the respiratory tract
- Synthetic RNA (siRNA) therapeutics for treating SARS-CoV-2.
The UNSW RNA Accelerator facility consist of four main units for the production of:
- mRNA (by in vitro enzymatic transcription)
- synthetic RNA (including siRNA, aptamers and guide RNA)
- DNA plasmids (a precursor for mRNA production)
- a lipid nanoparticle formulation suite.
Each of these units will have scale-up capabilities and will be equipped with state-of-the-art instruments for the production/synthesis, purification and quality control (analysis) of all materials. The facility, once fully operational, will be staffed by 8-10 professional officers and will be seeking GLP and ISO 9001 certification.