We are pleased to announce the upcoming ERA Chair Scientific Seminar at B.S.R.C. Alexander Fleming, entitled “Structural Nanomedicine: Blueprints for Better Drugs”. The lecture will be delivered by Professor Chad A. Mirkin (Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA) on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 12:00 noon in the B.S.R.C. Fleming Lecture Theatre.
In his talk, Professor Mirkin will present more than three decades of groundbreaking research in nanomedicine, with a particular focus on Spherical Nucleic Acids (SNAs). These unique nanostructures, composed of spherical nanoparticle cores densely functionalized with oligonucleotides, have no natural counterparts and interact with biological systems in distinct ways. Their structural properties enable efficient cellular uptake, making them powerful tools for diagnostics, gene regulation and editing, and vaccine development.
SNAs already form the basis of seven clinical-stage drug candidates targeting glioblastoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, psoriasis, and several neurological disorders. Their modular architecture has redefined the concept of structural nanomedicine, where the therapeutic effect is determined not only by the chemical identity of active components but also by their structural arrangement and connectivity. This approach has led to the design of highly potent SNA-based vaccines for cancer and infectious diseases, with minimal cytotoxicity and strong potential for clinical application.
Through this lecture, Professor Mirkin will highlight how SNAs are transforming our ability to understand, track, and treat disease — underscoring their significance for both science and society.
An exceptional opportunity to explore pioneering advances in nanomedicine!