DNA to RNA (D2R) is a pioneering research initiative led by McGill University that’s helping Canada lead the way in RNA-based medicine. Backed by a landmark $165 million investment from the Government of Canada, along with support from Quebec and partners in philanthropy and industry, D2R has one ambitious goal: to turn genetic discoveries into real treatments that save lives.
Scientists now know a lot about the genes that cause diseases like cancer, rare disorders, and infections. But making traditional drugs to target these genes can be slow, costly, and sometimes impossible. RNA therapies change that. They can be designed quickly and can work on almost any disease—even those once thought “untreatable.”
D2R brings together top researchers, industry leaders, and communities to build the tools and platforms needed to make these therapies a reality—and to ensure they reach everyone who needs them, including groups that have historically been underserved.
Vision
To deliver genomic-based RNA therapies to benefit the health of different populations affected by infectious diseases, rare genetic conditions, cancer, and chronic illnesses.
Mission
To develop an internationally leading initiative in the discovery and development of genome-guided, RNA-based precision medicines, associated computational tools, along with a clinical accelerator to ensure application of its discoveries for all Canadians and for the world.
Strategic objectives
Enable discovery
D2R will overcome scientific and technical obstacles to realize the potential of genome-guided precision medicine and RNA therapies.
Make an impact
To realize the potential of genomic discovery and capitalize on the flexibility of RNA therapeutics, D2R is implementing an interdisciplinary research strategy to tackle priority disease areas.
Be inclusive
D2R promises to improve knowledge and advance health outcomes for diverse populations globally. Objectives include to engage patient associations and equity deserving groups to guide research and policy recommendations. To successfully implement and deploy these medicines, particularly for underserved populations, D2R will create and analyze diverse socio-genomic datasets, and investigate and address ethical, legal, and societal issues linked to RNA therapeutics. D2R will address societal and policy questions to ensure that the diversity of our populations and health needs are considered.
Engage partners
D2R will be a hub for world-leading “next-generation” drug development in Canada, bringing together pharma and biotech to accelerate regulatory approval of life saving drugs. D2R’s scope and Canada’s competitiveness in these areas will be advanced through strong international links with leading biomedical research institutions in Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia.
Champion Indigenous-led research initiatives
D2R is deeply committed to fostering Indigenous leadership within the realms of genomic medicine, RNA therapeutics and health inequities. We prioritize the integration of Indigenous knowledge by actively promoting co-creation and ensuring that all engagements are culturally safe and respectful. This commitment involves building substantial partnerships that support the autonomy and leadership of Indigenous researchers and communities in directing research agendas. Our approach not only respects but relies on Indigenous governance structures and ethics to guide project development, data management, and dissemination of results, ensuring outcomes are beneficial and aligned with the priorities of Indigenous communities.
Here is a look at McGill’s game-changing research and the people behind the science.
