The Peru Gazette

The RNA Institute Advances Research To Understand, Diagnose and Treat Debilitating and Deadly Diseases Like Muscular Dystrophy, ALS, Alzheimer’s and Cancer 

Albany, NY –  November 6, 2025 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a $50 million capital investment by New York State to expand the State University of New York at Albany’s RNA Institute. The funding, which was included in SUNY’s enacted 2025-2026 capital budget, will increase capacity at the Life Sciences Research Building to advance the RNA Institute’s world-class research, training, and workforce development, including its work using artificial intelligence to guide innovative approaches to drug discovery.

“Identifying new ways to attack deadly and debilitating diseases will not only ensure the State University of New York at Albany is at the cutting edge of research and technology, it will help New Yorkers live longer, more fulfilling and healthier lives,” Governor Hochul said. “This is an investment in a better future, and it is being developed right here in New York. I am proud to announce this historic investment, and I thank the University for the lifesaving and life-affirming work its researchers do.” 

State University of New York at Albany’s RNA Institute advances basic research to understand, diagnose and treat debilitating and deadly diseases, including ALS, Alzheimer’s, cancer and myotonic dystrophy — the most common form of adult-onset muscular dystrophy. 

SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, “While the federal government is retreating from its historic role spurring cutting-edge academic research, SUNY is on the move and deeply thankful for the commitment and financial support of our Governor and the State Legislature to equip our researchers and students with state-of-the art facilities and resources to drive innovation. The State University of New York at Albany’s RNA Institute is one of SUNY’s premiere research institutions, and we are excited for this investment into the institute so the State University of New York at Albany can continue leading the way in RNA research.”