A pioneering RNA therapy being developed in Melbourne could transform the treatment of lupus, offering new hope to thousands of Australians living with the chronic autoimmune disease.
Researchers at Hudson Institute of Medical Research have created a topical RNA-based cream designed to prevent the damaging effects of lupus. Lupus is a debilitating condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. The breakthrough therapy is being tested in a world-first clinical trial led by Australian company Noxopharm, with support from the Victorian Government.
Lupus can affect multiple organs and cause severe skin inflammation, joint pain, fatigue and other complications. Around 20,000 Australians live with the condition, 90 per cent of them women.
Unlike traditional therapies that target symptoms or suppress the immune system, the new RNA drug aims to interrupt the disease process directly. Applied as a cream to affected areas, it represents a less invasive and potentially safer option for patients who often face lifelong treatment regimens.
“This research is making the leap from the lab to real-world clinical trials, offering hope for thousands of people suffering from lupus,” said Victorian Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs Danny Pearson during a visit to the Hudson Institute’s Clayton campus.
The project has received $100,000 in early investment from the mRNA Victoria Research Acceleration Fund, part of a broader state strategy to build a globally competitive RNA ecosystem. Since 2021, mRNA Victoria has distributed $30.6 million to support 63 research projects, catalysing a sector that now underpins cutting-edge vaccines, medicines and therapies.
Professor Elizabeth Hartland, Director and CEO of Hudson Institute, said, "We’re excited to work in partnership with Noxopharm to develop RNA medicines for patients with debilitating inflammation. Our newly NATA-accredited RNAte platform, supported by the Victorian Government, is ready for the RNA industry to test the efficacy and safety of new RNA-based therapeutics.”
Gisela Mautner, CEO of Noxopharm, said the trial demonstrates the power of collaboration between research and industry. “We are very proud to be working closely with Hudson Institute to bring Victorian innovation to the wider world. This is ground-breaking technology that we hope will lead to the development of a new treatment for lupus — and potentially several other diseases in the future," she said.