Past Winner
2021 NSERC John C. Polanyi Award

Breakthrough innovations developed by Prof. Hanadi Sleiman and her team at McGill University have transformed the field of DNA nanotechnology and paved the way to a revolution in medical treatments for major diseases. The Sleiman group created a unique class of DNA nanostructures to be used as drug delivery vessels for precision medicine, a fast-growing approach to health care that aims to tailor a patient’s treatment plan based on the individual’s genetics and environment. Sleiman’s nanostructures are biologically compatible and capable of detecting tumour cells and targeting drug delivery before biodegrading harmlessly. Her innovations are also being adapted in fields beyond medicine: technologies based on Sleiman’s DNA nanomaterials will find application in advancements in tissue engineering and “shape-shifting” structures for robotics. Ultimately, Sleiman’s breakthroughs will help doctors and pharmaceutical companies bypass drug resistance and generate greater success rates for a range of cancer treatments.

In recognition of her groundbreaking advancements in the field of DNA nanotechnology, Prof. Hanadi Sleiman is awarded the 2021 NSERC John C. Polanyi Award.

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