Importance of the QToF

RNA is fragile. Even when handled with care, it can start to break down. Furthermore RNA needs to be properly capped to function well inside the body. To make sure RNA medicines are safe and effective, researchers need a way to quickly and accurately test every batch. That’s exactly what the QToF does.

This instrument can:

• confirm that RNA has been made correctly
• check for damage or impurities
• analyse new types of RNA medicines, from vaccines to therapies for genetic conditions.

Step toward independence

Until now, New Zealand has had very limited access to the right kind of equipment for this work. Researchers often had to send samples overseas or use instruments designed for other purposes—a slow, expensive process that risks delays.

With the QToF on site in Wellington, we’ll be able to do these checks in real time, speeding up progress and keeping more of the work here in Aotearoa.

Supporting researchers nationwide

The new instrument will mainly serve the RNA Platform’s Production Facility, but it will also be available to support partners and collaborators. By having this capability locally, we’re making it easier for New Zealand researchers to turn ideas into real-world RNA medicines.

Looking ahead

This investment is about more than just one piece of equipment. It’s part of the RNA Platform’s bigger mission: to build the skills, tools, and facilities needed for New Zealand to lead in RNA science and innovation.

In short: the QToF gives us sharper eyes on our work—ensuring that as we design the medicines of the future, we know they’re being built to the highest standard.