Chemical Society Seminar: Maureen McKeague- Biosensing and Therapeutic Development with DNA and RNA

Abstract: 

The McKeague Lab leverages nucleic acids to develop innovative biosensing tools and therapeutic strategies. Nucleic acids can be enzymatically or chemically synthesized and are particularly exceptional biomacromolecules due to their programmability and versatility. As such, our work spans infection, blood diseases, and molecular monitoring in complex matrices. Over the past six years at McGill, we have developed gene-sensing and gene-targeting oligonucleotides, designed via predictive base-pairing interactions, with chemical modification for improved function. We also work with DNA and RNA aptamers that fold into functional 3D conformations and recognize a diversity protein and small molecule targets. This presentation will cover one biosensor and one therapeutics “choose your own adventure”. Be sure to bring a phone or other device that can read QR codes and make use of “Slido”.

Bio:

Assistant Professor Maureen McKeague obtained a PhD in Chemistry (2012) at Carleton University working with Prof. Maria DeRosa. Her research applied DNA nanotechnology to detect food toxins. She wanted to apply her interest in nucleic acids to synthetic biology, so she moved to the Smolke Lab at Stanford University from 2012-2016 for an NSERC postdoctoral fellowship award. She then transitioned to ETH Zurich in Switzerland for 2 years as a senior researcher working in Prof. Shana Sturla’s lab. Here, she studied alkylating DNA damage. She joined McGill University as a unique joint appointee in both the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics and the Department of Chemistry. She is the Vice-President of the International Society on Aptamers, an Associate Editor for the Molecular Therapy Nucleic Acids journal, and on the Editorial Advisory Board of ACS’ Chemical Research in Toxicology. She is currently a Canada Research Chair.