Novel Barcoded DNA-Polymer Hybrids on Magnetic Nanoparticles for the Selection of de novo Exosome Aptamers

The biological role of exosomes in cancer development renders them potential biomarkers for early cancer diagnostics. Current exosome extraction methods yield impure samples and are composed of relatively harsh conditions that cause exosome denaturation. Exosomes related clinical applications and research require tools to isolate exosomes from biological samples in its native form with high purities. The Sleiman lab have developed a method to generate a library of polymers to specifically bind to a protein target. The purpose of this project is to develop a new library of polymers to target protein biomarkers on the exosome surface. Discovered exosome binders can be immobilized on magnetic beads to allow for efficient isolation of exosomes. Galenvs Sciences is specialized in developing magnetic beads-based extraction kits for clinical and research applications. Identified exosome binding polymers and a set of optimized extraction buffers will be used to develop an exosome extraction protocol towards a commercial kit for everyday clinical and research use.

Faculty Supervisor:

Hanadi Sleiman

Student:

Partner:

Galenvs

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

McGill University

Program: