D2R | DNA to RNA

An inclusive Canadian approach to genomic-based RNA therapeutics.

For decades, researchers at McGill University have been studying the molecular biology and chemistry of RNA, including the exploration of RNA and its constituents as therapeutic modalities. Genetics, genomics and personalized medicine at McGill have foundational roots that date back over 50 years.

From genomics and RNA biology to medicine and biomanufacturing, these research strengths cover the range of expertise needed to discover gene targets and develop novel and innovative treatments for a variety of diseases. The D2R Initiative leverages McGill’s decades-long expertise in DNA and RNA research to develop the next generation of RNA medicines.

What is D2R | DNA to RNA: An inclusive Canadian approach to genomic-based RNA therapeutics?

With a landmark $165 million investment from the Canada First Research Excellence Fund, along with additional support from the Quebec Government and philanthropic and industry partners, McGill’s world-leading research initiative D2R will develop revolutionary genomic-based RNA medicines for all.

D2R’s mission is to establish an internationally leading initiative focused on the discovery and development of genome-guided, RNA-based precision medicines, and associated computational tools, along with a clinical accelerator to ensure application of its discoveries for all Canadians and for the world.

D2R’s research will initially focus on three disease areas: infectious diseases, oncology, and rare diseases.

What are D2R’s 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 harness 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.
Engage partners: D2R will become a hub for world-leading “next-generation” drug development in Canada, bringing together pharmaceutical and biotech companies 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.
Drive equitable practice: D2R will engage with patient associations and other equity-deserving groups to guide research and policy recommendations.
Champion Indigenous-Led Research Initiatives: D2R prioritizes 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.

D2R Funding Opportunities

From foundational projects promoting high-risk innovation to those focusing on international collaborations and commercialization partnerships, D2R funding programs aim to foster an ecosystem that nurtures diverse ideas. D2R funding programs address gaps and needs from rapid response to public health emergencies, commercialization efforts, or clinical research and development.

View D2R Funding Programs here: https://www.mcgill.ca/dna-to-rna/funding-opportunities

D2R Partners:

D2R includes a unique network of internationally recognized experts working together.

Researchers from McGill and partner institutions (Université de Sherbrooke, University of British Columbia, University of Ottawa, McMaster University)
Private sector companies
Academic institutions
Public sector, funding agencies, and knowledge mobilization organizations
Indigenous organizations
Major philanthropic donors

Learn more about D2R partners: https://www.mcgill.ca/dna-to-rna/researchers-partners

Other attachments:

Visit D2R’s website to learn more, apply for a funding program, participate in a D2R event or webinar, discover articles about ongoing research, and more.