SE.CURE-RNA unites Sweden around the next generation of RNA therapies and technologies

Yalda Bogestål, Pär Matsson, Claes Gustafsson, Mikael Kubista, Samir El Andaloussi, Joakim Håkansson.

SE.CURE-RNA is a national initiative bringing together Sweden’s leading research, healthcare, infrastructure and industry in RNA therapies and technologies. Its ambition is to build a connected ecosystem spanning research, innovation and commercialisation, strengthening Sweden’s position as a global leader in RNA-based precision medicine – and ultimately accelerating the development of new treatments for patients. Yalda Bogestål, Cluster COO at RISE, tells us more.

Why are RNA technologies so important, and what can RNA-based medicines achieve that conventional medicines cannot?

– RNA (ribonucleic acid) makes it possible to target disease at the molecular level – for example, by silencing a disease-causing gene, increasing gene expression or correcting a faulty genetic message. This offers an entirely new level of programmability and precision, opening up possibilities for treating diseases where existing therapies fall short.

What strengths does Sweden already have in RNA, and what is needed to become a global leader?

– Sweden has world-leading research and expertise, advanced infrastructure and an established life science industry. What we need now is to connect these strengths more effectively and create a seamless pathway from basic research and technology development to clinical application and commercialisation.

What can SE.CURE-RNA achieve that universities, healthcare and companies cannot accomplish on their own?

– SE.CURE-RNA can create the connections and critical mass needed to overcome key bottlenecks in the RNA field. By bringing together expertise, data, infrastructure and industry, we can accelerate the journey from discovery to treatment while building strong, long-term national capabilities.

How will you help more Swedish RNA innovations progress towards commercialisation in Sweden?

– By building bridges between academia, healthcare and industry, creating supportive environments for new companies and giving researchers better opportunities to translate their findings into practical applications. We want to shorten the path from idea and discovery to clinical implementation and the market, while enabling innovations to remain and grow in Sweden. As part of this effort, we are establishing a Grant Office to support members with funding applications and, where needed, project management.

If the initiative succeeds, what could Sweden’s RNA ecosystem look like in five or ten years?

– We envision a strong and connected RNA ecosystem with world-leading research, new and growing companies, advanced infrastructure and expertise across the entire value chain. We also hope to see new treatments developed in Sweden reaching patients, with Sweden firmly established as an internationally leading hub for RNA-based precision medicine.

SE.CURE-RNA brings together 16 of Sweden’s leading researchers in the field, while more than 170 organisations are contributing to the innovation and translation plan.

Is there still an opportunity for others to get involved?

– We already have a very strong consortium, but we are keen to connect with and involve additional relevant and strategic stakeholders and partners. Their expertise and engagement can help further strengthen SE.CURE-RNA and our application for the next stage.

Contact

Yalda Bogestål, Cluster COO, RISE: yalda.bogestal@ri.se

Mikael Kubista, Cluster Leader, Precision BioAnalytics: mikael.kubista@precisionbioanalytics.com

Samir El Andaloussi, Scientific Leader, Karolinska Institutet: samir.el-andaloussi@ki.se

Joakim Håkansson, Grant Office Manager, RISE: joakim.hakansson@ri.se