Dr. Jeremy S. Lee

Dr. Jeremy S. Lee is a Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Saskatchewan.

He is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the University Medical Discoveries Inc., Saskatchewan Innovation Fund, and Anavance Technologies Inc.

The role of DNA in the storage of genetic information is well documented. But DNA can also self-assemble and behave as a molecular wire for the transport of electrons. These properties make DNA an ideal building block for nanotechnology and biosensor applications. Previously, we showed that normal B-DNA could be converted to M-DNA by the addition of divalent metal ions such as Zn(II), Ni(II) and Co(II) at pH 8.5. Like B-DNA, M-DNA can self-assemble but M-DNA is a better conductor thus allowing a wider range of applications.

In the area of biosensors, we are developing methods to detect single base pair mismatches in DNA sequences for use in genetic screening. In the area of nanotechnology, we are building very small circuit elements suh as transistors for use in computers. Recently, Jeremy Lee and Bernie Kraatz, Department of Chemistry, co-founded Anavance Technologies Inc. whose main goal is to explore the commercial applications of M-DNA.

For further information, please contact Dr. Jeremy S. Lee by phone at 306-966-4371