RNA, known since the 1950s for its key role in the production of proteins, today turns out to be much more than a simple messenger of the genetic information contained in DNA. This versatile molecule is revolutionizing fields as varied as health, agriculture and the environment, and the cutting-edge research carried out here is helping to propel Canada to the international forefront of everything that currently being researched.
The most striking example of the impact of RNA is undoubtedly the dazzling development of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, which made it possible to curb the pandemic we were facing and to reduce in an extraordinary way the number of deaths linked to this virus. But this technology is not limited to vaccines: RNA is poised to transform the treatment of diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases, and other genetic disorders. Even more, RNA research opens new perspectives for agriculture and environmental sustainability, offering concrete solutions to global challenges such as food security and the preservation of ecosystems.
The colossal potential of this science highlights the need for massive investment in research. The spectacular breakthroughs made to date are the result of decades of fundamental research, which it is crucial to sustain and even scale up to transform today’s discoveries into concrete applications for tomorrow.
What few know is that Canada plays a leading role in this progress. From early work on the genetic code to recent innovations in RNA-based therapies, the Canadian scientific community has made its mark on the history of RNA. It is this heritage that allows Canada today to claim a place among world leaders, and could even be at the head of the pack provided it continues to develop this leadership.
The RNA Canada ARN organization, founded in 2022, is at the heart of this ambition. By bringing together more than 300 researchers across the country (including more than 135 in Quebec) and 400 scientists in training, RNA Canada ARN promotes collaboration, innovation and partnerships with industry, thus strengthening Canada’s position on the world chessboard. However, for this leadership to flourish, sustained support in public funding, infrastructure and engagement is essential.
The inaugural RNA Canada RNA conference, which will be held from September 30 to October 4 in Ottawa and will bring together more than 450 Canadian and international researchers, will demonstrate the commitment of the Canadian scientific community to continue its research work and will highlight the solutions that RNA brings to the challenges of our time. Investments in RNA research are no longer just an opportunity, but a strategic necessity for Canada to continue to play a key role in 21st technologies.e century. Long-term support for this promising science could well shape the future of global innovation, benefiting Canada and beyond.