Related projects
Discover more projects across a range of sectors and discipline — from AI to cleantech to social innovation.
Gene therapy has the potential to effectively treat a wide range of ocular disorders. However, the introduction of foreign therapeutic genes to cells is incredibly challenging. Compared to viral vectors, non-viral vectors (NVV) are far less immunogenic and less toxic. However, NVV are less efficient than viral vectors at delivering therapeutic genes because they must overcome numerous cellular barriers. An appropriate design of the components of the NVV will enhance the properties of the vector to improve delivery into the cell. Our group is working to optimize various nanocarriers and develop a DNA NVV that exploits Mediphage’s proprietary miniaturized DNA construct, called ministring DNA (msDNA). msDNA vectors confer higher transfection efficiency than traditional plasmid DNA strategies, and their smaller size allows for the delivery of higher copy numbers of therapeutic genes. We are confident that our strategy will lead to the development of an effective NVV for ocular gene delivery.
Shawn Wettig
Gurmeet Lall
Mediphage Bioceuticals Inc
Pharmacy / Pharmacology
Manufacturing
University of Waterloo
Accelerate
Discover more projects across a range of sectors and discipline — from AI to cleantech to social innovation.
Find the perfect opportunity to put your academic skills and knowledge into practice!
Find ProjectsThe strong support from governments across Canada, international partners, universities, colleges, companies, and community organizations has enabled Mitacs to focus on the core idea that talent and partnerships power innovation — and innovation creates a better future.