In today’s world facing global challenges—from viral diseases and cancer to aging and food security under climate change—RNA is emerging as a key to new scientific breakthroughs.
Although originally seen as a messenger in life sciences, RNA has shown far broader potential. Cutting-edge research reveals that RNA regulation and non-coding RNA applications in agriculture and medicine are driving a new wave of innovation.
In agriculture, RNA technology promises better crop breeding, enhanced resilience, and higher yields, supporting sustainable development goals. In medicine, RNA drugs are revolutionizing the treatment of diseases once thought incurable. From antisense RNA therapies to BioNTech’s personalized mRNA cancer vaccines and the widely used COVID-19 vaccines, RNA is reshaping precision medicine. By 2030, the global RNA therapeutics market is expected to reach hundreds of billions of dollars.
Many countries are elevating RNA to a national strategic level. For example, the U.S. launched the “Cancer Moonshot” program in 2023 with strong investment in mRNA cancer vaccines. In comparison, China still faces a significant gap in original RNA technologies and industrial applications.
Beijing is striving to build a global RNA research hub. By advancing fundamental studies, theoretical innovation, and original technology development, Beijing aims to lead in food security and disease prevention, and to form a world-class RNA research and industrial cluster.
Securing leadership in RNA technologies is not only a scientific mission but also a pathway for China’s technological and industrial advancement. With strong research and innovation ecosystems, Beijing is positioned to become a world leader in RNA science and applications.