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Jul. 22, 2010 - Lupus: Closely Monitoring Heart Disease Risk in Patients
Lupus: Closely Monitoring Heart Disease Risk in Patients Dr. Murray Urowitz, a Senior Scientist at the Toronto Western Research Institute and member of AARC, with TWRI/AARC collaborator Dr. Dafna Glaman and their fellow currently in Australia, have discovered important new findings highlighting the variability of cholesterol and blood pressure (BP) in patients with systemic lupus erythmatosus (lupus or SLE)—an autoimmune disease affecting the body’s connective tissue, resulting in damage to internal organs, joints and skin. “This study bears significant clinical importance because patients with SLE are at an increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), and understanding how the levels of total cholesterol (TC) and BP change over time will greatly assist medical teams to better understand risk factors and improve patient care,” explains Dr. Urowitz. Sampling over 26,000 measurements of TC, and systolic and diastolic BP (SBP and DBP) from greater than 1,200 patients over a nine-year follow-up period, the study determined that over time, 64.7% of patients varied between having normal and elevated cholesterol levels, while 46.4% of patients varied between having normal or abnormally high BP, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring of lipid levels during active disease and treatment with corticosteroids. Also of note, patients using antimalarials had lower TC, SBP and DBP levels. “Other independent factors related to TC and BP were smoking and hormone replacement therapy,” says Dr. Urowitz. “We have provided strong evidence showing the important concept of TC and BP variability over time, which makes a strong case for finding summary measures that better capture cumulative exposure to these risk factors over time. Future studies will work towards an even greater in-depth understanding of the complex relationship between various CAD risk factors in SLE.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jul. 22, 2010 - Parkinson’s Disease: Understanding the Anatomy of Movement
Parkinson’s Disease: Understanding the Anatomy of Movement Over a prolonged period of time, patients undergoing treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD) with the drug commonly known as L-DOPA—a chemical related to dopamine used to increase levels of dopamine in the brain—commonly experience motor complications such as dyskinesia, or involuntary or uncontrolled body movements. However, recent findings out of TWRI are helping scientists better understand the mechanics behind dyskinesia and where future treatments could be targeted to prevent it. Dr. Jonathan Brotchie and his colleagues used a large animal model of PD and a series of in-depth molecular and physiological investigations to show that two areas in the brain intimately involved in motor control (the striatum and motor cortex middle layers) have increased levels of 5-HT2A receptors—brain proteins responsible for passing important information between cells. Moreover, the study provides evidence showing the pathway that information travels to promote L-DOPA induced dyskinsia. Comments Dr. Brotchie, “Our findings are adding important new knowledge of how prolonged L-DOPA use could promote dyskinesia in patients with PD. Building on these anatomical findings, future studies are necessary to see if, and how, chemicals blocking 5-HT2A from working could help prevent dyskinesia.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jul. 21, 2010 - Hodgkin Lymphoma: Taking a Closer Look at Heart Disease Risk and Cancer Tre
Hodgkin Lymphoma: Taking a Closer Look at Heart Disease Risk and Cancer Treatment PMH’s Dr. David Hodgson and colleagues from across the province have found strong evidence pointing towards a high risk of cardiac hospitalization (CH) following mediastinal radiation therapy (RT)—radiation to the area between the lungs where the heart, esophagus and windpipe are located—and doxorubicin-based chemotherapy in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients, especially among those patients with pre-existing heart disease. These findings have important implications for medical teams when weighing treatment options, and in the follow-up of these patients. The team conducted a population-based study of over 3,900 patients throughout Ontario who were diagnosed with HL from 1988 to 2003. A detailed analysis of a random sample of over 1,000 patients found that the relative cardiotoxicity of different treatments depended on the presence or absence of pre-existing cardiac disease. Other conventional cardiac risk factors—such as high blood pressure and diabetes—were also major contributors to the risk of cardiac complications, and the combination of doxorubicin chemotherapy and mediastinal RT was associated with a significantly higher risk than just doxorubicin chemotherapy alone. “These findings are an example of the fact that the complications of cancer treatments do no occur in isolation, but vary from one person to the next depending on their pre-existing health,” comments Dr. Hodgson. “An effort to reduce the cardiac exposure to radiation in patients with pre-existing cardiac disease is necessary, and medical teams should carefully monitor and treat cardiac risk factors following HL treatment.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jul. 20, 2010 - Immunity and Disease: Applying Cell Therapy to Combat Infectious Disease
Immunity and Disease: Applying Cell Therapy to Combat Infectious Disease Sepsis—frequently called 'blood posiening'—is the number one cause of death in critically ill patients and is caused by overwhelming infection. Currently, sepsis remains without an effective specific treatment strategy; however, new findings out of UHN, St. Michael's Hospital and the University of Ottawa harness the immune-regulating power of stem cells to improve clinical outcome in this devastating disease. Co-led by TGRI’s Dr. W. Conrad Liles and the University of Ottawa’s Dr. Duncan Stewart, a series of molecular investigations found that administering mesenchymal stem (stromal) cells (MSCs)—stem cells from the bone marrow—to mice with sepsis (and receiving appropriate antimicrobial therapy) significantly reduced mortality in comparison to mice who did not receive MSC treatment. Studies also went on to show that MSCs significantly reduced the level of proteins that are responsible for promoting inflammation, which is a critical component of sepsis. “MSCs were able to up-regulate or ‘turn on’ genes involved in positive immune action, specifically killing invading bacteria,” explains Dr. Liles. “Our studies show that, by reducing inflammation and promoting the eradication of bacteria, MSC therapy may be an effective tool, in partnership with current therapies, to reduce sepsis-related morbidity and death. This study demonstrates the potential for therapeutic use of MSCs for sepsis and provides the basis for launching a clinical trial in patients with sepsis.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jul. 19, 2010 - Influenza A: Identifying New Cell Population to Battle Infection
Influenza A: Identifying New Cell Population to Battle Infection Recent findings out of the Arthritis and Autoimmunity Research Centre (AARC) and TGRI uncover a new population of immune cells—late-activator antigen presenting cells (LAPC)—that may play a pivotal role in regulating resistance against pulmonary influenza A virus infections. The influenza A virus primarily affects organs and tissues responsible for breathing; and once infected, these viruses grow rapidly in number (within hours of first exposure) sending the immune system into a tail spin. As explained by study lead and AARC Director Dr. Eleanor Fish, “For influenza virus infections, our bodies are equipped with two very distinct responses, known as T1 and T2 immunity. Our study specifically looked at T2 immunity within the context of disease cause and progression. We chose this route of study primarily because our understanding of the mechanics behind this T2 response is still in its infancy.” Using an animal model of influenza A infection, Dr. Fish and her team conducted an in-depth investigation, revealing the novel LAPC cell population, as well as showing how these cells differ and are unique from other well-known immune cells. Importantly, the study also explained how LAPCs modulate influenza A infection to coax our T2 immune response into action. “Collectively, our findings here show that LAPCs have wide-spread involvement in different virus infections and they appear to have distinct roles in the immune response to virus infections. For flu infection, LAPCs leave the lungs much later than other virus fighting cells and trigger different responses,” says Dr. Fish. “Future studies looking at the function of LAPCs in different virus infections and how they respond to different pathogens may provide us with new therapeutic targets for the treatment for a host of infections, including influenza A virus.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jul. 06, 2010 - U of T researchers discover new biomarker to identify agressive thyroid can
U of T researchers discover new biomarker to identify agressive thyroid cancer Tuesday, July 6, 2010 Researchers at the University of Toronto and Mount Sinai Hospital have discovered a new way to identify aggressive thyroid cancer, as well as predict patient outcomes. The research was published late last week in the leading medical journal BMC Cancer. “Our study shows, for the first time, a key biomarker that can be used in diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic strategies for the future management of thyroid cancer,” said endocrinologist Paul Walfish, Alex and Simona Shnaider Research Chair in Thyroid Oncology at Mount Sinai Hospital, emeritus professor at the Faculty of Medicine and the senior author of the study. Thyroid cancer occurs when some of the cells that make up the gland (a butterfly-shaped organ at the front of the neck) mutate and become cancerous. It is known that the epithelial cells lining the thyroid undergo cellular changes including the removal (or cleavage) of molecules attached to their surface. However until now, the role and significance of the intracellular product of this process were unknown. To further understand the cellular changes occurring during the development and progression of thyroid cancer, Walfish and his team - including lead author Dr. Ranju Ralhan, Dr. Christina MacMillan, Dr. Jeremy Freeman (all of Mount Sinai Hospital) and Jun Cao (post-doctoral fellow) and Terence Lim (U of T medical student) - analysed 58 archived thyroid cancer tissue blocks from 34 patients and correlated them with survival analysis of these patients for up to 17 years. The team discovered that increased intracellular levels of a specific biomarker named Ep-ICD can be used to diagnose an aggressive form of thyroid cancer. Ep-ICD forms intracellularly after cleavage from a precursor protein called epithelial cell adhesion molecule (Ep-CAM) which localizes on the membrane surface of normal and cancer cells. “Our laboratory discovered that increased accumulation of Ep-ICD in the cytoplasm and nucleus of a thyroid cancer cell is associated with increased aggressiveness and poor prognosis,” said Walfish. “In patients with the most lethal form of thyroid cancer, the levels of Ep-ICD were remarkably higher than those with a more low-grade papillary thyroid cancer, where Ep-CAM remained predominantly on the membrane surface of their cancer cells.” Statistical analyses showed that patients with increased cytoplasm and nuclear levels of Ep-ICD developed aggressive thyroid cancer and survived an average of five months after diagnosis, compared with those without such abnormal pathology who survived an average of 16 years. “These findings add further support to a novel mechanism in the pathogenesis of aggressive thyroid cancer and demonstrate the importance of Ep-ICD in promoting such aggressiveness through its interaction with other proteins within the cell,” said Ralhan, co-director of the Alex and Simona Shnaider Research Laboratory in Molecular Oncology at Mount Sinai Hospital and lead author of the study. Thyroid cancer is the most rapidly increasing cancer in Canada, with more than 3,000 Canadians - 80 per cent of them women - diagnosed annually. Thyroid cancer has one of the lowest death rates among cancers, however a sub-type, anaplastic thyroid cancer, has a high fatality rate and some patients may only live for four months after diagnosis in severe cases. Usually, the cause of thyroid cancer is unknown, although exposure to radiation has been linked to the development of cancerous thyroid tumours. This research was made possible with support from the Mount Sinai Hospital Foundation Da Vinci Gala Fundraiser, Alex and Simona Shnaider Chair in Thyroid Oncology, The Temmy Latner/Dynacare Foundation, and the Mount Sinai Hospital Department of Medicine Research Fund. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-researchers-discover-new-biomarker-to-identify-agressive-thyroid-can.html … read more>>

Jul. 02, 2010 - Immune System: Revising the 'Road Map' of Blood Development
Immune System: Revising the 'Road Map' of Blood Development Jul 02, 2010 The human blood system is made up of many different types of cells and a deep understanding of the developmental 'road map'--how a single blood (hematopoietic) stem cell develops into a handful of different cells--is important for future therapies. Recent findings from a UHN-led team are adding important new knowledge that helps to explain when, and how, these changes occur along a blood stem cell's path to maturity. With Dr. Pamela Ohashi and colleagues, Dr. John Dick's team used a technology called flow-cytometric sorting to isolate seven distinct bone marrow cell types that represent distinct nodes in the 'roadmap' at which different blood cell fates are specified. One of these 'progenitor' cell types identified in the study was termed the multilymphoid progenitor (MLP) and it represents the earliest node from which white blood cells involved in the body's adaptive immune system, such as B and T cells, develop. The study showed that these cells can also develop into macrophages and dendritic cells, which are part of the innate immunity, previously thought to arise by a different path. Such an accurate 'roadmap' of hematopoiesis is essential for the development of cell-based therapies. Explains Dr. Dick, "Unlike what was previously thought, discovering MLPs provides strong evidence that these specific immune cells separate in a gradual transition, rather than very early in development. Moreover, we now know the importance of MLPs and what is required to isolate, expand and mature these cells to obtain large quantities of immune system T cells and dendritic cells, which could be useful down the road for cancer immunotherapy." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jun. 28, 2010 - ELLICSR Opens its Doors
ELLICSR Opens its Doors Jun 28, 2010 The Electronic Living Lab for Interdisciplinary Cancer Survivorship Research (ELLICSR) celebrated its official opening on June 4, 2010, an event that was attended by UHN and surrounding community members. The 12,000 square foot research centre is located at the Toronto General Hospital. This unique facility was made possible by grants from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) ($1.2M) and the Ontario Research Fund ($1.2M). With additional support, the total project was $3.7M. "Finally we have a space that allows us to teach important life skills around diet and exercise, proven approaches to improve side the effects of treatment, as well as overall health and quality of life," says Dr. Pamela Catton, Medical Director of the Cancer Survivorship Program, and Founding Director of ELLICSR. The goal of ELLICSR is to improve the cancer experience by exploring novel ways to learn from survivors, to develop new survivorship communities and to study how cancer survivors can be engaged, empowered and active in adopting healthier behaviours that minimize the negative impact of cancer and its treatment. It is a spacious community centre with teaching and self management areas for patients and survivors that include: a full kitchen, a community resource space, consultation rooms and an exercise room. ELLICSR is fully wired to support virtual programming, community connections and global collaborations. There is also a research team on-site who are keen to investigate new and interesting strategies to improve the cancer experience. In a press release, Dr. Eliot Phillipson, former President and CEO of CFI, comments, "This is a unique area of interdisciplinary research we were keen to support as communities of cancer survivors continue to grow. Providing researchers with the tools they need to undertake leading-edge research is what CFI is all about." Visit ellicsr.ca for more information about this truly unique local, national and international cancer resource. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jun. 11, 2010 - Diabetes: Locating the Brain's 'Sweet' Spot
Diabetes: Locating the Brain's 'Sweet' Spot Announced on Jun 11, 2010 TGRI's Dr. Tony Lam and his team have uncovered important findings that could help explain how glucose (sugar) production and blood sugar levels are regulated in healthy and obese/diabetic individuals. These findings have important implications for future therapies using glycine or a glycine analogue to lower blood sugar levels in diabetes and obesity. "We've been able to show that delivery of glycine activates, or turns on, specific brain receptors and triggers a brain-liver axis of communication to lower sugar production," explains Dr. Lam. "Our studies demonstrated for the first time not only that a region of the brain called dorsal vagal complex (DVC) is sufficient to lower blood sugar levels, but that the signal(s) in the DVC can be activated by glycine." Using animal model, the team used several approaches to show that activating the NR1 (glycine binding site) and NR2 subunits of NMDA receptors in the DVC--receptors responsible for brain cell communication--lowers sugar production and blood sugar levels. Future studies will look towards testing glycine effects in multiple diabetic and obese models as well as discovering new activators of NMDA receptors that could potentiate the glucose-lowering effect in diabetes and obesity. Clarifying the role of NMDA receptors in the DVC that relay gut signals to lower blood sugar levels is also important future research. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jun. 09, 2010 - New genetic findings expected to accelerate autism testing and development
New genetic findings expected to accelerate autism testing and development of treatments Results of International Autism Genome Project - Phase 2 are unveiled Wednesday, June 9, 2010 Canadian and international scientists have uncovered key changes in DNA in individuals with autism. The Phase 2 results of the multinational Autism Genome Project Consortium, published in the June 9 advance online edition of Nature, substantiate the importance of genes as susceptibility factors in autism spectrum disorders. This study is the largest of its kind, involving 1,500 families and more than 120 scientists and clinicians from across North America and Europe. The team was led by Professor Stephen Scherer, corresponding author of the study, director of the McLaughlin Centre at the University of Toronto, senior scientist at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and director of its Centre for Applied Genomics, and Dr. Peter Szatmari, co-principal investigator, director of the Offord Centre for Child Studies and professor at McMaster University. Dr. Dalila Pinto, post-doctoral research fellow at SickKids, was lead author. Using microarrays (or gene-chip technology) in the highest-resolution testing to date, researchers investigated individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). ASDs, diagnosed in one in 110 children, are a group of neurodevelopmental conditions resulting in challenges connected to communication, social understanding and behaviour. The researchers reported that individuals with ASDs tended to carry more insertions and deletions affecting their genes - called copy number variants (CNV) - than did people in the control group. Some of these CNVs appeared to be inherited, while others are considered new, because they are found only in offspring with autism and not in the parents. Dozens of new "autism risk genes" were discovered, including some that might be helpful in early diagnosis. "We now know several of the genes involved in autism and for the first time, we are able to tie many of these genes into the same biological pathways involved in brain function," said Scherer. "Knowing these autism genes are linked, we can begin to develop therapies to target the common pathways involved." Szatmari added, "This study will lead to a paradigm shift when it comes our understanding of the root causes of autism and indeed other neurodevelopmental disorders. Previously it was believed that autistic individuals share common genetic variations in a few genes.This research points to the fact that genetic variations are actually rare, meaning individuals with autism are genetically quite unique. But as we discover more and more of these variants, the number of cases of ASD we can explain increases substantially. " According to Pinto, "Another surprising discovery was the significant overlap between autism susceptibility genes and those genes that were previously thought to be implicated in intellectual disability. This suggests that at least some genetic risk factors are shared at the pathway level by different mental health disorders and developmental disabilities, providing insights into possible common pathogenic mechanisms." The study found that for about 10 per cent of the families studied, there are some genetic clues that may assist in the early diagnosis of autism or related complications. The Canadian researchers say the next goal is to set up mechanisms and processes so that all families who are interested can have access to this testing. "Guided by these massive genomic data sets, we can start to see the forest through the trees, offering answers and hope for families with autism," said Scherer. The Autism Genome Project consists of 120 scientists from more than 50 institutions representing 12 countries who formed a first-of-its-kind autism genetics consortium. The project began in 2002, when researchers from around the world came together to share their samples, data and expertise to facilitate the identification of autism susceptibility genes. The funding to the Canadian team which provided leadership in the identification and analysis of these genes came from public and private partners including major awards and support from Genome Canada through the Ontario Genomics Institute, the McLaughlin Centre, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Ministry of Research and Innovation, the Ontario Innovation Trust, the Catherine and Maxwell Meighen Foundation, the Premier's Summit Award in Medical Research, Autism Speaks, The Centre for Applied Genomics, the Chedoke Health Corporation, the Mayberry Family Fund, the Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation and SickKids Foundation. Pinto was supported by fellowships of the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research and the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences. … read more>>

Jun. 07, 2010 - Three U of T professors, two alumni among Top 40 Under 40
Three U of T professors, two alumni among Top 40 Under 40 Faculty of Medicine's researchers shine Monday, June 7, 2010 Good things must come in threes for U of T, since that's the number of University of Toronto faculty members who have been named to the 2009 Canada's Top 40 Under 40 (TM) list. Professors Ike Ahmed of the Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences; Daniel Durocher of the Department of Molecular Genetics; and Subodh Verma of the Departments of Surgery and Pharmacology were among the 40 Canadian under the age of 40 so honoured by the prestigious national award program that recognizes stellar contributors in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Alumni Robert Normandeau, president and CEO of Clarke, Inc., and Dr. Eve Tsai, a neurosurgeon and professor at the University of Ottawa, were also named to the list. Ahmed is the Department of Ophthalmology's research fellowship director\and is the director of the Glaucoma and Advanced Anterior Surgical (GAASS) fellowship; he is also a clinical assistant professor at the University of Utah. Durocher is the Canada Research Chair in Proteomics, Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics. He is based at Mount Sinai Hospital where his research focuses on developing a global understanding of DNA damage response. Verma, who is based at St. Michael's Hospital, is the Canada Research Chair in Atherosclerosis and is working to understand the link between inflammation and hardening of the arteries so new medicines and procedures can follow. "The greatest asset of our Faculty of Medicine is the people who come here to learn, work, teach and improve the health of people around the world," said Professor Catharine Whiteside, dean of the Faculty of Medicine. "It is very gratifying for this acknowledgement of the caliber of people I have the privilege to work with every day. The entire Faculty of Medicine takes great pride in the achievement of these individuals and we join in extending our congratulations." All three professors were delighted with their inclusion on the Top 40 list and expressed their thanks to those who made the award possible. "I am truly humbled by this honor and thankful to the many friends, mentors and collegaues who I work with who put forward this nomination," said Verma. Ahmed also expressed gratitude to those who helped make the award possible. "This award means two things to me: recognition of all those in my life who supported and helped me to achieve success -- my family, my mentors, my colleagues, my students, my friends and my patients - and recognition of innovation and out-of-the box thinking, challenging established ideas and assumptions, and obsession with micro-surgical technical skills with a passion for improving medical outcomes," he said. Durocher concurred. "To me, it isn't really a personal honour as much as the recognition of the hard work that my students, post-doctoral fellows and technical staff have been doing. They deserve the recognition as much as I do," Durocher said. "I also hope that the award will raise awareness to the important role that basic research plays in society." The program, now in its 15th year, is managed by founding sponsor, The Caldwell Partners International. Thesuccessful candidates were selected from more than 1,200 nominees by an independent advisory board, comprising of 25 business leaders from across Canada. Honourees were chosen on five key criteria: vision and leadership; innovation and achievement; impact; community involvement and contribution; and strategy for growth. Profiles of the winners appear in the June 7 issue of the Globe and Mail. They will be feted June 8 during an awards ceremony at the Canadian Broadcasting Centre. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/three-u-of-t-professors-two-alumni-among-top-40-under-40.html#more … read more>>

Jun. 07, 2010 - Neurology: Deciding When to Re-Start Anticoagulation
Neurology: Deciding When to Re-Start Anticoagulation Announced on Jun 07, 2010 Recent findings out of TWRI indicate that, for patients with brain or spinal cord hemorrhage (bleeding) that occurs as a complication of anticoagulant (AC) therapy--medications that thin the blood preventing it from clotting--it would be wise for health care teams to re-start these anticoagulation treatments earlier than previously thought. TEs occur when a clot travels through the blood, obstructing its flow through the circulatory system leading to complications such as heart attack or stroke. Graduate student Dr. Gregory Hawryluk, supervisor Dr. Michael Fehlings and other research fellows from the Fehlings lab including James Austin, Julio Furlan, Jang Bo Lee and Cian O'Kelly reviewed data from over 60 publications detailing greater than 490 patients from 1975 to 2009. Findings show that the majority of complications resulting from hemorrhage are seen within 72 hours of initially being detected by medical staff. Importantly, the study uncovered strong evidence showing that patients who were re-started on AC treatments after 72 hours were significantly more likely to have a TE complication than patients started before 72 hours. "If patients were restarted before 72 hours, they were more likely to hemorrhage," explains Dr. Fehlings. "The take away message here is that patients with brain or spinal cord bleeding may have unique characteristics, such as low risk of bleeding and high risk of TE. It is important for medical teams to consider individual patient risk when selecting AC restart time and intensity." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 28, 2010 - Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Changes in Brain Landscape
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Changes in Brain Landscape Announced on May 28, 2010 TWRI's Drs. Karen Davis and Nicholas Diamant, and graduate students Udi Blankstein and Jerry Chen, have discovered that individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have an altered brain structure that could provide insight into the mechanisms behind the chronic pain experienced by patients. Symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating and diarrhea, and are often associated with emotional stress. Explains lead author Dr. Davis, "Our previous study revealed that patients with IBS have structural changes in specific regions of their brain, and in this current study we were interested in determining if these changes are the result of suffering from IBS pain, the duration of IBS or are a result of a patient catastrophizing or excessively focusing on the pain they feel." The team used structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to take a 'look inside' the brain of 11 patients with IBS and compared that to 16 age-matched healthy subjects. MRI findings show that the patients with IBS have increased gray matter in the hypothalamus, which could be related to IBS, stress and a brain-gut communication axis responsible for regulating food intake, digestion, gut sensations and the control of bowel movements. "We've also found abnormalities in a region of the brain that could be pre-existing and contribute to IBS vulnerability, and abnormalities in other brain regions may develop over time, possibly because of these chronic abnormal communication signals," explains Dr. Davis. "Our findings indicate that in IBS, the brain shows both pre-existing vulnerabilities as well as disease-driven abnormalities. Future studies will focus on the structural changes that specifically affect pain and IBS, as these changes can one day act as new therapeutic targets." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 21, 2010 - U of T researcher elected to Royal Society (U.K.)
U of T researcher elected to Royal Society (U.K.) Kay renowned for work in nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy Friday, May 21, 2010 Anyone who has followed Lewis Kay's remarkable scientific career will find it fitting that he has been named a 2010 Fellow of the Royal Society (U.K.), the world's oldest scientific academy in continuous existence, dating back to 1660. The Royal Society counts more than 60 Nobel Laureates among its approximately 1,400 fellows and foreign members. Renowned scientists who have claimed membership include Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein, Francis Crick, James Watson and Stephen Hawking. Kay, a professor of molecular genetics, biochemistry and chemistry, won't look out of place among such notable company. He has been a standout ever since graduating from high school, when he received highest honours standing in Grade 12 in the Edmonton public school system. As he went on to study biochemistry at the University of Alberta, earn a PhD in molecular biophysics at Yale and do a post-doctoral fellowship at the U.S. National Institutes of Health, success followed him in the form of such prizes as a sought-after NSERC scholarship for graduate education and a Medical Research Council of Canada Centennial Fellowship. He joined the University of Toronto in 1992 and has excelled in both research and teaching. Kay serves as the undergraduate co-ordinator for U of T's molecular biophysics program, teaching courses that reflect his twin passions: nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and protein structure and function. In the realm of graduate studies, he has nurtured more than 40 post-doctoral fellows and graduate students, many of whom have gone on to prestigious scientific careers of their own. On the research front, Kay's work focuses on the development of NMR techniques for studying macromolecular structure and dynamics and the application of NMR techniques to problems of biological and clinical importance. He is exploring protein dynamics, protein folding and the structure of proteins involved in signal transduction, focusing on molecules containing SH2 and SH3 domains from cytoplasmic tyrosine kinases. Kay also considers new ways to use NMR spectroscopy to improve his work with proteins. His laboratory work has garnered him an endless string of prestigious awards and accolades, including a Sloan research fellowship, the Steacie Prize, selection to Canada's Top 40 Under 40, a Premier's Research Excellence Award, membership in the Royal Society of Canada and a Canada Research Chair. He has published more than 300 research articles and is among ISI's most highly-cited researchers. "Lewis is one of the top NMR spectroscopists in the world," said Professor Peter Lewis, associate vice-president (research). "His insights into macromolecular dynamics as revealed by his creative NMR methodologies lead the field. I think the best is yet to come from his groundbreaking studies on large macromolecules." Kay is pleased by the honour and will attend the induction ceremony this summer in London. "It's a recognition of achievement," said Kay. "Your colleagues are telling you that they respect the body of work you've done. "I certainly push myself, and if I'm pushing myself, it's a good barometer of where my peers see me. It's nice recognition, but it won't change the way I do anything. However, it's nice to know on those days I have a paper rejected by a journal and I'm feeling kind of blue. It's a nice pat on the back and everybody likes that." Royal Society members are elected for life. Its fellowship is made up of the most eminent scientists, engineers and technologists from the U.K. and the Commonwealth. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-research-elected-to-royal-society-uk.html#more … read more>>

May. 19, 2010 - U of T honours Giant of Biomedical Science
U of T honours Giant of Biomedical Science Mustard celebrated with relish Wednesday, May 19, 2010 The launch of a new biography of Dr. Fraser Mustard, Connections and Careers, at the Donnelly Centre became an occasion for former colleagues to both praise and gently roast the celebrated biomedical researcher and agent for societal change. The biography, written by retired University Professor Marian Packham, focuses on the U of T medical school graduate's ability to achieve results, no matter to which field he applied his talents. Mustard's list of accomplishments is a lengthy one and includes: • Being a founding member of McMaster University's Faculty of Medicine (1966);• Serving as founding president of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) (1982);• Serving as co-chair of a 1999 Ontario government report on early learning, The Early Years Study - Reversing the Real Brain Drain, a study that led to the establishment of Ontario Early Years Centres.• Named as one of U of T's 10 Giants of Biomedical Science "Fraser Mustard is a national treasure and a giant in every sense of the word," said President David Naylor. "He has been a sterling success as a biomedical scientist, trans-disciplinary scholar, builder of innovative academic institutions and world-class research networks, and a visionary in health and social policy." In the laboratory, Mustard was equally accomplished. Among the studies for which he, Packham and other research team members are remembered is an investigation of the inhibitory effect of Aspirin on blood platelet aggregation and a demonstration that platelet aggregation could lead to heart attacks and strokes. Today, at 83, age hasn't stopped Mustard from forging ahead. He now devotes time to The Founders' Network, an international organization that promotes CIFAR, science and technology and socio-economic determinants of health and human development. His former colleagues paid tribute to his indomitable spirit and energy, as well as his unique style, in their comments during the book launch. "He had the remarkable ability to identify innovative opportunities and to seek out and attract the very best people to exploit them," said Arthur Bourns, former McMaster University president. Former Toronto Star business editor David Crane noted that Mustard could always see the big picture without ignoring details, if they were relevant. "He was the person, more than anyone else, who carried through the creation of the CIAR (now CIFAR)," he said. "He felt there were limits on the way universities addressed research issues, so he created a new institution that allowed people from different universities and organizations to work together on one of his big ideas." U of T alumnus Gerald Heffernan, who has worked closely with Mustard, had a more personal point of view. "What I didn't know about Fraser is that his helpers very quickly become his slaves," he said teasingly as the crowd chuckled. Mustard gamely joked right back. "I never really had a job," he said. "John (Evans) as health sciences head at McMaster let me do what I wanted and Arthur (Bourns), as president, allowed me to do the same. I managed to find a way to get paid." He praised Packham for the extensive research that led to the new biography and his colleagues for making his work possible. "What Marian has done is write a marvelous record of what you all have done for me." http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-honours-giant-of-biomedical-science.html#more … read more>>

May. 19, 2010 - U of T researchers make sense of DNA's 'dark matter'
U of T researchers make sense of DNA's 'dark matter' Previously considered junk DNA Wednesday, May 19, 2010 University of Toronto scientists have uncovered some of the secrets behind what molecular biologists call "dark matter" transcripts. The findings will be published next week in the online, open access journal PLoS Biology. The term "dark matter" refers to the genomic output that does not originate from known genes, arising instead from regions that were once thought of as nothing more than "junk DNA." When it was discovered that genetic signals, namely RNA transcripts, were coming from these areas, many believed that there was a whole new mystery to solve and that there was much more going on than originally expected. However, a new study, led by Harm van Bakel, a post-doctoral fellow, and Professor Timothy Hughes of the Banting and Best Department of Medical Research and the Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, indicates that most of these signals are likely to be byproducts of signals from already known genes. Most of the others, the research indicates, are more consistent with background noise than meaningful signals. Part of the mystery came from the methodology used. Many original reports of dark matter signals used "tiling microarrays," which these researchers determined was creating many false positives. By using a recently available method of sequencing very large numbers of transcripts, they were able to determine that unexplained dark matter only accounted for two per cent of the total transcripts, much less than originally believed. Of that two per cent, most are very close to known genes, indicating that they are likely to be part of the gene itself. "The fact that most dark matter transcripts could be linked to known genes suggests that they are not signals emerging from a hidden universe within the genome," said van Bakel. "Though it is too early to exclude some functional role, the dark matter transcripts may primarily be by-products of normal gene expression." "Given the size of the human genome, it's important to know where to focus our attention," van Bakel said. "Up until now, we had no way of knowing if we were missing out on some key biological information. This discovery allows us to zero in on what is really important." http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-researchers-make-sense-of-dnas-dark-matter.html#more … read more>>

Apr. 19, 2010 - Global Partnership To Fight Cancer
Global Partnership To Fight Cancer McGuinty Government Supports Revolutionary Oncology Research Ontario is joining forces with Merck and leading research institutions to develop new drugs to fight cancer. The province is supporting an oncology partnership involving Merck, the Princess Margaret Hospital and its research arm the Ontario Cancer Institute (OCI) — part of the University Health Network. The province is investing approximately $2.6 million through the Biopharmaceutical Investment Program to support the $17.3-million partnership, which will help create and retain between 10 to 12 highly-skill jobs at the hospital The hospital will join Merck’s global oncology research network — a collaborative group of leading cancer research institutions around the world — as a centre of excellence for clinical trials of new anti-cancer drugs. The network will develop a new generation of cancer treatments based on genomics, stem cell research and personalized medicine. Investing in research and innovation has been a cornerstone of Ontario’s economic planning since 2003. This investment is part of Ontario’s Innovation Agenda to make innovation a driving force of Ontario’s economy and supports the new Open Ontario Plan to build new opportunities for growth and jobs. QUOTES “This partnership will help keep our province at the forefront of the global effort to eradicate cancer. Today’s investment builds Ontario’s research strength and creates jobs and a healthier future for Ontario families.”— John Milloy, Minister of Research and Innovation “Almost everyone has been affected by cancer in one way or another. Today’s announcement reaffirms our government’s commitment to helping Ontarians and their families by funding crucial research, and also builds on the excellence and experience that has made Ontario a world leader in research.”— Glen Murray, MPP Toronto Centre “At Merck we are committed to making a difference in the lives and health of Canadians. Our partnership with Princess Margaret Hospital and the Ontario government will allow us to deliver on our goal of putting patients first.”— Carlos Dourado, President, Merck “Amazing advances in biology, physics, computational sciences and other critical domains have set the stage for major advances in understanding and treating cancer. I have no doubt that this global oncology research network will lead the way to better cancer treatments,”— Dr. Christopher Paige, VP Research, University Health Network/Princess Margaret Hospital QUICK FACTS Ontario is the largest hub of biomedical activity in Canada and the fourth largest biomedical research centre in North America. There are more than 850 medical/life science companies in Ontario with more than 45,000 employees and annual revenues of approximately $14 billion. Between 2005 and 2008, provincial investments in research and innovation leveraged $1.1 billion while helping to advance the knowledge, skills and training of close to 30,000 people. … read more>>

Apr. 13, 2010 - U of T medical professor wins Killam Prize
U of T medical professor wins Killam Prize Alum, former professor also winners Posted Tuesday, April 13, 2010 U of T professor Mark Henkelman of medicine has been named the winner of one of five 2010 Killam Prizes. This prestigious award is presented to distinguished Canadian scholars who have conducted exceptional research in five areas: engineering, health sciences, natural sciences, social sciences and the humanities. The annual awards are administered by the Canadian Council for the Arts and are valued at $100,000 apiece. Henkelman was honoured with the health sciences prize. "Congratulations to Professor Henkelman on this outstanding achievement," said Professor Paul Young, vice president (research) at U of T. "This well-deserved honour recognizes Mark's tremendous innovation in the use of magnetic resonance imaging in serious health conditions and treatments that affect us all. It is this kind of research that makes a tangible and very positive impact on global society." The Killam Prize winners were announced April 13 during a ceremony at Toronto's Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences. Upon receiving his award, Henkelman thanked the provincial and federal governments for the research funding he has received during his career. "I have benefited from that funding, as well as outstanding colleagues who stimulate my work and good students," Henkelman said. Henkelman has been recognized for his outstanding work in the field of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). His recent research explores how modern imaging technology can be used in the diagnosis of cancer and other diseases. He is also working to develop real-time MRI for use in neurosurgery. This is not the first award Henkelman has received for his outstanding research. He has also been the recipient of the Robert Noble Prize awarded by the National Cancer Institute (2008), the Gold Medal of the International Society of Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (2005), and was named a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 2005. Henkelman continues to contribute in the health sciences research community as a professor in the departments of medical biophysics and medical imaging and as a senior scientist in imaging research with Toronto's Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. He is also doing genetic research centered at the Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute where he operates a mouse imaging centre. "That's what I do now. I image the mouse -- me and Walt Disney," he joked. The Killam Prizes were inaugurated in 1981 and financed through funds donated to the Canada Council by Mrs. Dorothy J. Killam in memory of her husband, Izaak Walton Killam. They were created to honour eminent Canadian scholars and scientists actively engaged in research. In addition to Henkelman, U of T alumna Ellen Bialystock of York University received the social sciences prize and Professor James Tully of the University of Victoria, who taught at U of T as the inaugural Henry N.R. Jackman Distinguished Professor in Philosophical Studies from 2001 to 2003. earned the humanities prize. The engineering prize went to Professor Ming Li of the University of Waterloo and the natural sciences prize was awarded to Professor Arthur McDonald of Queen's University. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-medical-professor-wins-killam-prize.html … read more>>

Mar. 29, 2010 - U of T receives two new Canada Research Chairs
U of T receives two new Canada Research Chairs Distinguished program renews 16 chairs Monday, March 29, 2010 U of T will gain important expertise in obesity and cancer research through two new Canada Research Chairs. "We couldn't be happier that the vital work of Professors Tony Lam and Frank Sicheri are being recognized and celebrated at a national level," said Professor Peter Lewis, acting vice president (research). "As always, we're thankful to the Government of Canada for this valuable program." Lam, a member of the Department of Physiology, has been appointed Canada Research Chair in obesity. Understanding the processes involved in obesity can offer insights into how the central nervous system reacts to high fat-induced obesity. Lam's research could lead to the eventual development of new treatments for obesity and diabetes.Sicheri, a member of the Department of Molecular Genetics, has been named Canada Research Chair in structural principles of signal transduction. Protein kinases are enzymes that exert regulatory control over diseases by activating and deactivating molecules that cause or prevent illnesses such as cancer. Using x-ray crystallography, Sicheri plans to uncover how the protein kinase Rad53/Chk2 is regulated to minimize the accumulation of cancer-causing mutations. "Our government is investing in science and technology to create jobs, strengthen the economy and improve the quality of life for Canadians," said Gary Goodyear, minister of state. "The Canada Research Chairs program is helping our universities develop and attract talented people, strengthening our capacity for leading-edge research, while creating jobs and economic opportunities for Canadians now and in the future." In addition to U of T's new chairs, 16 are being renewed. They are: Anne Bassett (schizophrenia genetics), Denise Belsham (neuroendocrinology), Daniel Bender (urban history), John Dick (stem cell biology), Susan George (molecular neuroscience), David Guttman (comparative genomics), Randall Hansen (immigration and governance), David Kaplan (cancer and neuroscience), Young-June Kim (complex materials), Joel Levine (neurogenetics), Alberto Martin (antibody diversification), Peter McCourt (plant molecular genetics), Steven Narod (breast cancer), Keren Rice (linguistics and aboriginal studies), Lisa Robinson (leukocyte migration in inflammation and injury) and John Roder (learning and memory). "We're also very excited by the news of our CRC renewals. The work of these scholars represents clear excellence in a variety of disciplines that have a direct impact on global society. Congratulations to all of these investigators," Lewis said. The Canada Research Chairs program was founded in 2000 to achieve research excellence in engineering, natural sciences, health sciences, humanities and social sciences. U of T has a total allocation of 249 chairs, the largest amount in all of Canada. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/two-new-canada-research-chairs.html … read more>>

Mar. 26, 2010 - Lupus: Understanding the Benefits of Antimalarial Treatment
Lupus: Understanding the Benefits of Antimalarial Treatment Recent study findings from a TWRI-led study confirm that administration of the antimalarial drug hydroxychloroquine to patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)—an autoimmune disorder causing acute or chronic inflammation of multiple organs—reduces the risk of thrombovascular events (TEs) by 68%. Led by Dr. Paul Fortin, with Drs. Dafna Gladman and Murray Urowitz, the team took a closer look at patients diagnosed with SLE between 1970 and 2004 and matched patients according to year of diagnosis and severity of disease. This approach helped to clarify whether exposure to antimalarial drugs was associated with a decrease in TEs and not a product of changing patterns of medication usage. Overall, the use of antimalarials reduced the risk of arterial and venous TEs by 66% and 74% respectively. “For patients with SLE, we have identified older age, being older than 50 years of age and ever having hypertension as being associated with an increased risk of TEs,” says Dr. Fortin. “Our data support the wide and prolonged use of hydroxychloroquine for the treatment of patients with SLE who do not have any contraindication to treatment with antimalarials. Future studies will help determine what the maximum duration of treatment with antimalarial drugs should be, as well as the side effects of prolonged use.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Mar. 26, 2010 - Head and Neck Cancer: Global Screen Identifies Future Therapy Targets
Head and Neck Cancer: Global Screen Identifies Future Therapy Targets For patients with head and neck cancer (HNSCC), there is a need to develop predictive molecular signatures; recent findings out of the laboratory of OCI’s Dr. Fei-Fei Liu will contribute to this aim. Comments Dr. Liu, “Patients with locally advanced HNSCC have a 30% 5-year overall survival rate which translates into a major opportunity to treat patients based on the molecular abnormalities of their disease. Specifically, with the development of predictive tests, health care teams could significantly improve patient selection for appropriate treatment, and guide the development and evaluation of new therapies.” With Drs. Bayardo Perez-Ordonez, Igor Jurisica, Brian O’Sullivan, John Waldron and Bernard Cummings, Dr. Liu’s team, led by Dr. Angela Hui, conducted a series of molecular tests to survey the global expression of microRNAs (miRNAs)—important molecules involved in the regulation of gene expression—in HNSCC versus normal or non-cancerous tissue. In total, 38 of the 117 detected miRNAs (33%) were significantly differentially expressed in malignant tissues. “We have identified a group of differentially expressed miRNAs in HNSCC,” says Dr. Liu. “Specifically, our studies have found that low levels of miR-375 and high levels of miR-106b-25 might play cancer-promoting roles in HNSCC. Our future studies will look to further dissect the complex molecular activities that underlie this disease in an effort to develop a molecular disease signature, and ultimately, help to design future treatment strategies.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Mar. 26, 2010 - Lung Injury: Getting to the Bottom of Injury Promotion and Prevention
Lung Injury: Getting to the Bottom of Injury Promotion and Prevention According to recent findings from a TGRI study, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A (VEGF)—a protein involved in regulating vascular permeability, angiogenesis and promoting lung cell survival—helps protect lung cells from programmed cell death during times of acute lung injury (ALI). Led by Dr. Mingyao Liu and collaborators Drs. David Hwang, Thomas Waddell, Shaf Keshavjee, and Dr. Matthew Binnie at Mount Sinai Hospital, the team used an animal model to show that lung development was not significantly affected in mice without VEGF. However, in older mice, emphysema-like evidence was detected which indicates that VEGF may be critical to maintaining lung structure, especially in older adults. “Our studies provide strong evidence supporting the fact that VEGF is important to maintain alveolar structure in adulthood,” explains Dr. Liu. “In terms of ALI, VEGF is helpful and a hindrance depending on the situation. Specifically, VEGF contributes to acute inflammation and pulmonary edema but also has protective properties for alveolar epithelial barriers as well. Ultimately, caution should be exercised when considering VEGF as a therapeutic target for ALI until further research is conducted.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Mar. 26, 2010 - Neurology: Establishing a Circulation and Brain Landscape Relationship
Neurology: Establishing a Circulation and Brain Landscape Relationship TWRI researchers have determined that patients with narrowed blood vessels supplying the brain can have an unusual physiological condition where one part of the brain “steals” blood from another part. The part of the brain experiencing the reduced blood was shown by the researchers to have thinning of the brain’s gray matter (the cortex). Study lead Dr. David Mikulis, with Drs. Jorn Fierstra, Frank Silver and Michael Tymianski reviewed 250 imaging studies and identified 17 patients with severe one-sided exhausted brain blood flow areas demonstrating this “steal” physiology but with normal appearing cortex landscapes on MRI. Using advanced imaging tools, the team then made electronic brain ‘maps’ of the areas with steal physiology in order to measure cortex thickness and found an 8% thinner cortex than corresponding healthy areas. “For the first time we have evidence showing a relationship between impaired autoregulation in the brain with steal physiology and cortical thinning,” explains Dr. Mikulis. “The important point here is that severely narrowed blood vessels can still produce brain injury even if a sudden stroke has not yet happened. In effect we have discovered a previously unrecognized disease process. Now that we more clearly understand this condition, future studies will work towards determining if there is a relationship between gray matter thinning due to steal physiology and brain function.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Feb. 05, 2010 - U of T researchers cast light on how stem cells 'make decisions'
U of T researchers cast light on how stem cells 'make decisions' Breakthrough discovery in fruit flies could lead to new therapies for humans Friday, February 5, 2010 Researchers at the University of Toronto are part of an international collaboration which has shed new light on how stem cells "decide" what kinds of cells to become, opening up new opportunities for regenerative medicine such as cell-based therapies and even potential cancer treatments. In a paper published today in Cell Stem Cell, Professor William Stanford of biomedical engineering, Canada Research Chair in stem cell bioengineering and functional genomics, and his collaborators found that a protein originally discovered in fruit flies called Polycomb-like 2 (PCL2) plays a critical role in mouse embryonic stem cell "decision making." Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the unique ability to divide and generate more stem cells as well as generate differentiated, specialized progeny. Human pluripotent stem cells such as induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and embryonic stem cells (or ES cells) have the ability to differentiate or specialize into all cell types of an adult. These cells have immense potential for regenerative medicine such as cell-based therapies. Not surprisingly, there is a lot of interest in what controls the stem cell decisions - the decision to become a stay a stem cell or differentiate into a specialized cell like a blood cell, for example. "If scientists can understand these normal decisions, they hope to influence those decisions to treat disease, such as making more blood cells to treat anemia or influencing the stem cells to become pancreatic beta cells to treat diabetes," said Stanford. "In fact, we think that what researchers learn from ES cells can be applied to adult stem cells such as blood stem cells. After all, blood stem cells are similar in nature to ES cells - blood stem cells have the ability to divide to make more blood stem cells and all the cells of the blood system." When the PCL2 protein, was removed from mouse ES cells, these stem cells could no longer differentiate into the specialized cells, remaining stem cells even under conditions that should push the PCL2 mutant ES cells into neurons, muscle, or even liver cells. In fact, the inability of the PCL2 mutant stem cells to differentiate into specialized cells is reminiscent of cancer cells. The lead author in this study, Emily Walker, a Stanford lab graduate student, found that she could rescue the ability of the mutant ES cells to differentiate by re-expressing PCL2 in these cells. Next, the Stanford group analyzed all the genes regulated by PCL2 and drafted a regulatory or network map, the equivalent to a computer circuit. In fact, the regulatory network not only explains how PCL2 controls stem cell decisions but explains how stem cells can respond so quickly to signals that allow the stem cells to specialize into the more than 200 cells of our body. The regulatory network also showed that PCL2 controls many cancer causing genes, which has Stanford and Walker excited about the possibility that PCL2 could be an important new player in the war on cancer. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-researchers-cast-light-on-how-stem-cells-make-decisions.html … read more>>

Feb. 05, 2010 - Leukemia: Discovering a New Population of Cells
Leukemia: Discovering a New Population of Cells Announced on Feb 05, 2010 The human blood system--in particular the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) or blood stem cell--has been extensively studied; however, the exact mechanics behind how an HSC undergoes self-renewal remains unclear. Self-renewal is the process by which an HSC grows and divides to create an exact replica of itself, as well as cells different from itself (i.e. one or more specific types of blood cells that cannot renew). "It's important that we understand the mechanics behind self-renewal because it's responsible for the life-long maintenance of the human blood system," explains OCI study-lead Dr. Norman Iscove. His recent study findings identified a new population of HSCs, known as 'intermediate term' cells that persisted for a period of 6-8 months before becoming extinct or losing their ability to self-renew. The team used a mouse model and genetic approach to their investigations that have provided important information towards our understanding of stem cells. "It is important for investigators to be able to distinguish between the different types of cells in the blood system," explains Dr. Iscove. "We need to be able to separate short-, intermediate- and long-term cells from one another so that HSC studies examine those cells capable of maintaining the blood system which is critically important for stem cell transplantation." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Feb. 01, 2010 - Cancer: Parallel Studies Change Understanding of Gene Function
Cancer: Parallel Studies Change Understanding of Gene Function Announced on Feb 01, 2010 E2fs--a family of transcription factors responsible for helping turn genes 'on'--play central roles in controlling cell division, survival, and cancer. They can drive cell division and, if inappropriately activated, may trigger cell death, a protective mechanism against cancer development. Recent findings published in Nature co-led by TWRI's Dr. Rod Bremner turn two widely held notions--that E2fs are essential for division and can drive cell death--upside down. Dr. Bremner speculates that, "Although cells can divide without E2fs they dislike doing so, perhaps because they don't have all the right equipment to copy their genetic information properly." Indeed, in the retina and other tissues, loss of E2f induced an increase in DNA damage. Parallel studies with collaborator Dr. Gustavo Leone showed that activating E2fs are not required for cell division in multiple tissues in vivo, but that they are essential for cell survival. Dr. Bremner's lab focused on the developing retina and defined mechanisms to explain these phenomena. First, they showed that an unrelated protein family (Myc) promoted division in the absence of E2fs. Second, they discovered that E2fs promoted survival because they maintained levels of a protein called Sirt1. In cells without E2f, Sirt1 protein levels dropped and activated the p53 protein responsible for promoting cell death. "Cancer cells often have high Myc levels, and combining that with low E2f could help these cells to divide and to induce mutations to escape natural and pharmaceutical attack. Understanding the effect of different combinations of Myc and E2f activity is important to define how best to treat different cancers." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 29, 2010 - $100,000 investment up for grabs from the Ontario Genomics Institute
$100,000 investment up for grabs from the Ontario Genomics Institute The Ontario Genomics Institute is now accepting applications for its Pre-Commercialization Business Development Fund (PBDF), a unique investment fund that provides early-stage funding to researchers as they move towards commercial applications of their genomics and proteomics research projects. Through an investment of $100,000, the PBDF helps researchers, entrepreneurs or organizations in the life sciences move their technologies towards follow-on financing and commercialization. Last year, the PBDF invested in a test to help predict the outcomes of bone marrow transplants, a research effort to develop a set of genetic markers that can be used to produce pigs that are free of boar taint (an undesirable taste or odour that is sometimes present in pork products) and the development of novel cytogenic, single-copy DNA probes that can specifically detect individual chromosomal abnormalities. This application deadline for the next round of investment is January 29, 2010. Areas of consideration for the PBDF include, but are not restricted to: biofuels cell, macromolecular or small-molecule strategies for disease therapeutics crop or livestock trait improvements diagnostics environmental management laboratory and medical devices nutraceuticals associated technologies such as analysis and organization of data resources (informatics, databases), high-throughput robotics and information technology The PBDF ranks opportunities in terms of the extent to which they meet the following criteria: The investment increases the likelihood of a near-term (i.e., within 24 months), ‘next-step’ event by offering concrete, definitive milestone(s) and uniquely enables rapid progress towards the marketplace for the outcome(s) of genomics-related technologies. The opportunity forges a partnership between academe and industry. The proposal demonstrates that the PBDF represents a unique funding opportunity for the project. The applicant provides a matching investment in cash or in kind, whether from internal resources or other investors or from granting institutions. The opportunity is of interest to an entity capable of and committed to further commercializing the outcome. For more information, details of previous investments or to apply for the PBDF, visit the Ontario Genomics Institute’s website. … read more>>

Jan. 29, 2010 - Cardiology: Re-Examining the Protective Properties of Beta-Blockers
Cardiology: Re-Examining the Protective Properties of Beta-Blockers The beta-blocker class of drugs is commonly prescribed to manage various conditions including arrhythmias, hypertension and following heart attacks. Beta-blockers are also recommended by the American Heart Association to decrease the occurrence of heart attacks around the time of surgery. Recent findings from a TGRI-led study are providing new insights into the differences that patients either prescribed or not prescribed beta-blockers experience during the perioperative period which includes pre-surgery, surgery and post-surgery. Dr. Scott Beattie and colleagues Drs. Dumina Wijeysundera, Keyvan Karkouti, and Stuart McCluskey reviewed records from more than 4,000 noncardiac, nontransplant surgical patients who were at low risk for cardiac complication. Their findings showed that patients who were taking beta-blockers at the time of surgery had a history of hypertension, diabetes, renal failure, coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, and congestive heart failure more often than those patients who were not taking beta-blockers. After adjusting for these pre-operative differences using a statistical tool called propensity score matching they found heart attacks occurred more frequently in patients who were on beta-blockers. As explained by Dr. Beattie, “What is new and important in these findings is that major cardiac complications and mortality were increased for those patients prescribed beta-blockers who had more than a 35% drop in hemoglobin concentration”—an important finding for health care teams. Blood loss and acute anemia are very frequent occurrences in surgery. Until future studies can be conducted, it would be prudent to transfuse patients earlier than is currently recommended in patients taking beta blockers to avoid the 35% drop in hemoglobin. Our results here point to the need for a larger study.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 28, 2010 - Neurology: Detailing the Process of Memory
Neurology: Detailing the Process of Memory The hippocampus is a region of the brain critical for establishing and retrieving long-term memories. A hotly debated topic in cognitive neuroscience is whether the hippocampus codes for memory strength (and is therefore mainly active for strong memories) or recollective experience (activity relates to retrieval of contextual information) during recognition. Thanks in part to findings from a TWRI-led study, this debate may finally be put to rest. The study was led by Dr. Melanie Cohn in Dr. Mary Pat McAndrews’ lab. Participants were asked to study pairs of words (A-B). The team then used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to assess hippocampal activity while participants performed a recognition task for the first member of the pairs (A) presented alone and then in the presence of their pair member (A-B). They asked participants to rate the degree of strength or familiarity of A words (i.e., certain-new to certain-old) and whether they were able to recollect the original study experience. Importantly, while other areas of the brain showed increased activation in relation to memory strength, activity in the hippocampus only increased when context was recollected. Drs. Cohn and McAndrews explain, “Things can seem very familiar at first but you may not be sure why (missing context). Suddenly everything ‘makes sense’ because information becomes recollected with the right context and you now know why something is familiar to you. The hippocampus seems to be critical to this ‘conversion’ of one type of memory experience to the other.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 27, 2010 - Cancer Biology: Learning to Sensitize ‘Tenacious’ Tumour Cells
Cancer Biology: Learning to Sensitize ‘Tenacious’ Tumour Cells Researchers at OCI have discovered a new pathway that tumours use to survive during conditions of hypoxia (deprivation of oxygen) and become more aggressive and resistant to current cancer treatment strategies. By strategically manipulating this pathway, researchers believe that these once ‘treatment resistant’ tumours could become sensitive to radiation or chemotherapy. As explained by study lead Dr. Bradly Wouters, “It is extremely important to understand how to tumours are able to adapt to metabolic stresses like hypoxia because these mechanisms lead to more aggressive cancers that are difficult to treat effectively.” With colleagues from the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research and Europe, the team conducted a series of molecular investigations in several human cancers to show that the unfolded protein response (UPR) mechanism protects human tumour cells by enhancing the activity of MAP1LC3B and ATG5 genes. This enables the tumour cells to carry out a form of self-eating or autophagy, thus allowing them to survive under nutrient and oxygen poor conditions. Ultimately, this activity promotes human tumour cell survival and contributes to tumour cell treatment resistance. “When we disabled this adaptive mechanism through genetic or pharmacological agents, previously resistant tumours became less hypoxic and more sensitive to irradiation,” comments Dr. Wouters. “Our future studies will continue to target the UPR as a mediator of hypoxic tumour environments to make resistant hypoxic tumour cells sensitive to treatment.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 26, 2010 - Leukemia: Discovering a New Population of Cells
Leukemia: Discovering a New Population of Cells The human blood system—in particular the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) or blood stem cell—has been extensively studied; however, the exact mechanics behind how an HSC undergoes self-renewal remains unclear. Self-renewal is the process by which an HSC grows and divides to create an exact replica of itself, as well as cells different from itself (i.e. one or more specific types of blood cells that cannot renew). “It’s important that we understand the mechanics behind self-renewal because it’s responsible for the life-long maintenance of the human blood system,” explains OCI study-lead Dr. Norman Iscove. His recent study findings identified a new population of HSCs, known as ‘intermediate term’ cells that persisted for a period of 6-8 months before becoming extinct or losing their ability to self-renew. The team used a mouse model and genetic approach to their investigations that have provided important information towards our understanding of stem cells. “It is important for investigators to be able to distinguish between the different types of cells in the blood system,” explains Dr. Iscove. “We need to be able to separate short-, intermediate- and long-term cells from one another so that HSC studies examine those cells capable of maintaining the blood system which is critically important for stem cell transplantation.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 25, 2010 - Cancer: Parallel Studies Change Current Understanding of Gene Function
Cancer: Parallel Studies Change Current Understanding of Gene Function E2fs—a family of transcription factors responsible for helping turn genes ‘on’—play central roles in controlling cell division, survival, and cancer. They can drive cell division and, if inappropriately activated, may trigger cell death, a protective mechanism against cancer development. Recent findings published in Nature co-led by TWRI’s Dr. Rod Bremner turn two widely held notions—that E2fs are essential for division and can drive cell death—upside down. Dr. Bremner speculates that, "Although cells can divide without E2fs they dislike doing so, perhaps because they don't have all the right equipment to copy their genetic information properly." Indeed, in the retina and other tissues, loss of E2f induced an increase in DNA damage. Parallel studies with collaborator Dr. Gustavo Leone showed that activating E2fs are not required for cell division in multiple tissues in vivo, but that they are essential for cell survival. Dr. Bremner’s lab focused on the developing retina and defined mechanisms to explain these phenomena. First, they showed that an unrelated protein family (Myc) promoted division in the absence of E2fs. Second, they discovered that E2fs promoted survival because they maintained levels of a protein called Sirt1. In cells without E2f, Sirt1 protein levels dropped and activated the p53 protein responsible for promoting cell death. "Cancer cells often have high Myc levels, and combining that with low E2f could help these cells to divide and to induce mutations to escape natural and pharmaceutical attack. Understanding the effect of different combinations of Myc and E2f activity is important to define how best to treat different cancers." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 22, 2010 - Genetic 'atlas' of cells will pinpoint causes of disease
Genetic 'atlas' of cells will pinpoint causes of disease Scientists at the University of Toronto have discovered a way to map the interactions of genes within a cell, a significant breakthrough that promises to help researchers better understand the causes of disease, and lead to more precise targeting of drug treatments. While the genetic makeup of humans has been determined, the purpose and interactions of those genes have not been well-understood. An international study led by Professor Brenda Andrews, director of the Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, and Professor Charles Boone, a principal investigator at the Donnelly Centre, found a way to decipher the networks derived from natural genetic variation. The results of the study were published in today's issue of the prestigious journal Science. "No one has made a map of these genetic interactions," said Andrews. "This research has provided us with a functional view of the cell." Working with cells from simple yeasts, the researchers developed a method to map the interactions within these cells, the first time this has been done for any organism. Because yeast cells are remarkably similar genetically to human cells, this mapping process has important implications for improving research into human health, such as better understanding the genetic basis of disease. The mapping process will enable scientists to develop a complete atlas of genetic interactions, thereby making it possible to decode the functions of all of the thousands of genes in a cell. Such an atlas will provide valuable information about the link between an individual's genotype (a person's unique genetic makeup) and phenotype (the behaviours of that individual's genes). This information will build understanding of what genetic interactions are going wrong when a disease happens in a body. The U of T researchers were also able to map interactions between genes and chemicals, which allows researchers to see more precisely what happens to a cell when a particular drug is introduced. "These types of maps will allow us to be much smarter in the use of drugs in the future," said Andrews. "By knowing the interactions of genes, we will be able to better predict the effect of a drug on a cell." The study was conducted in collaboration with Chad Myers, an associate professor of computer science and engineering at the University of Minnesota, and other researchers from U of T, Harvard University, the Massachussetts Institute of Technology, McGill University, Princeton University, Stanford University, the University of California Santa Cruz, University of Szeged (Hungary), Mount Sinai Hospital (Toronto), and S&P Robotics Inc. (Toronto). http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/genetic-atlas-of-cells-will-pinpoint-causes-of-disease.html … read more>>

Jan. 19, 2010 - U of T researcher discovers how new HIV vaccine candidate can control HIV p
U of T researcher discovers how new HIV vaccine candidate can control HIV progression Goal is to develop workable HIV vaccine Tuesday, January 19, 2010 Researchers from the University of Toronto and Mount Sinai Hospital have made significant findings about how a new HIV vaccine candidate (Delta 5) can reduce -- and in some cases stop -- HIV progression by triggering natural immunity. This study, released online ahead of publication in the Journal of Virology, is the work of Professor Kelly MacDonald of medicine, senior author of the paper and a microbiologist at Mount Sinai Hospital. The research findings extend MacDonald's earlier studies of cellular immune function and its role in resisting HIV infection and disease in highly exposed populations in Canada and Kenya. The study looked at two vaccine candidates: Delta 5 and Delta 6 simian imunodeficiency virus (SIV). Both were super-attenuated vaccines (a weakened form of the HIV virus used in primates with only the main structural proteins remaining). Delta 5, the stronger version of the two, was found to provide more protection against HIV. The vaccines were developed in conjunction with Dr. Mark Wainberg at McGill University."Using these super-attenuated viruses as vaccines in a primate model gives us an ideal opportunity to see how natural immunity to HIV can develop," MacDonald said.The study demonstrated that control of and protection from HIV was dependent on initial exposure to the Delta 5 vaccine, which primed immune responses to the virus. This is similar to the Canadian and Kenyan human subjects in MacDonald's previous study who were highly exposed to HIV, yet uninfected by the virus because their immune systems were primed by a weakened form of the HIV virus.It is known that the HIV virus first enters the genital tract, then the genital lymph nodes and finally goes to the lymph nodes in the gut. The study indicated that the HIV virus needs to be controlled before it enters the lymph nodes in the gut. This is because 70 per cent of the body's immune system is found in the digestive tract and the memory of the immune system resides there. If the HIV virus reaches this area, it will knock out the immune memory and leave the person unable to fight the virus. "We think that this is the right vaccine approach. Now, we need to test a practical vaccine delivery system that will intermittingly tickle the immune system to ensure the natural immunity is properly primed so if HIV exposure does occur, the system can respond quickly when it enters the body and before it reaches the lymph nodes in the gut."As the next step, MacDonald and her team have adapted Varicella virus (chicken pox) vaccine into a delivery system for an HIV vaccine. Live-attenuated Varicella is a licensed vaccine with a 20-year safety record that provides the body long-term protection through silent reactivation of the chicken pox virus intermittently, which triggers the immune system. MacDonald and her team have inserted HIV genes into the live-attenuated Varicella virus to create a vaccine that is non-toxic and incapable of causing disease. This vaccine will undergo a trial this spring with the hope that it will generate immunity to both chicken pox and HIV. "The most effective way to get ahead of HIV worldwide is to develop a vaccine. That's our end goal," MacDonald said. The study was funded by Canadian Institutes for Health Research, Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research and the Ontario HIV Treatment Network. It was also supported by the Public Health Agency of Canada. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-researcher-discovers-how-new-hiv-vaccine-candidate-can-control-hiv-p.html … read more>>

Dec. 18, 2009 - Protein inhibits cancer cell growth, say U of T researchers
Protein inhibits cancer cell growth, say U of T researchers Provides clues for better cancer therapies Researchers at the University of Toronto and Goethe University in Germany have discovered a protein that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, providing crucial clues for the future development of new drugs to treat the disease. The protein, called HDAC6, controls the stability of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a key player in cancer. "Our teams discovered that HDAC6 acts as a molecular brake to shut down the expression of the human EGFR," said Professor Igor Stagljar of biochemistry and molecular genetics, one of the lead authors of a study published in the Dec. 22 issue of the journal Science Signaling. Professor Ivan Dikic at Goethe University was co-lead on the study. "Since EGFR is overactive in breast, lung, colon and pancreatic cancers, this discovery can open new avenues for cancer treatment," said Stagljar, a principal investigator at U of T's Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research. EGFR is nestled into the cell membrane on the surface of human cells where, after it gets activated by molecules called ligands, causes cells to divide. In several cancer cell types, the activity of this receptor is dramatically increased, which stimulates cells to grow rapidly and out of control. Because of its key role in driving the proliferation of cells, EGFR is a target of several cancer drugs currently in development, as well as several approved therapies. To study the cellular role of EGFR in human cells, Stagljar's lab first developed a technology called MYTH, a unique test that can monitor interactions between membrane proteins. This technology can reveal proteins that tightly associate with EGFR on the cell surface. Using MYTH, the researchers identified more than 80 proteins that interact, and presumably communicate, with the human EGFR. Among them was a cytosolic protein, HDAC6, which they showed helps in stabilizing EGFR in human cells. "These findings offer fresh insight into how HDAC6 regulates EGFR degradation and provides clues for the design of improved cancer therapies," Stagljar said. Specifically, a carefully planned combinatorial chemotherapy that inhibits both the EGFR receptor and its newly identified "brake" (HDAC6) could have a beneficial effect for treating breast, lung, colon, and pancreatic cancers. In the next phase of their research, Stagljar and his colleagues plan to extend the MYTH technology to interrogate all human receptors that regulate cell proliferation and are therefore implicated in the onset of cancer. Such a global analysis of proteins that associate with human cell surface receptors may provide novel avenues for the treatment of different types of cancers. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/protein-inhibits-cancer-cell-growth-say-u-of-t-researchers.html … read more>>

Dec. 17, 2009 - TWRI Researcher Receives Olivecrona Medal
TWRI Researcher Receives Olivecrona Medal On December 4, 2009, UHN's Dr. Michael Fehlings received the 2009 Olivecrona Medal at the Karolinska University Hospital in Stockholm, Sweden. Dr. Fehlings was selected to receive the prestigious award for his significant contributions to spinal cord research. Established in 1976, the award honours Dr. Herbert Olivecrona and acknowledges outstanding neurosurgeons/neuroscientists who contribute excellence to the neurosurgical field, based on development of microsurgical techniques, pedagogical skills or scientific contributions. Congratulations Dr. Fehlings! Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 17, 2009 - Innovative joint partnership to address urban healthcare in Ontario
Innovative joint partnership to address urban healthcare in Ontario A partnership between Ryerson University, George Brown College and St Michael's Hospital may change how we think of a visit to the family doctor. With funding from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, researchers and students from these three Toronto institutions are looking at improving the quality of urban healthcare delivery and research. It is the first formal partnership between the three groups to address the pressing challenges facing the healthcare system in urban settings in Ontario. The partnership is the result of an Ontario-supported push for innovative collaboration on education, clinical placements and research within the industry. "Given the close physical proximity of all three institutions in the downtown core and the focus on improving urban healthcare, the partnership was a natural fit," said Robert Luke, Assistant Vice-President, Research and Innovation, George Brown College. "We're pleased to collaborate with our partners and take advantage of significant opportunities to engage in the planning of education, research and clinical initiatives." Initial discussions resulted in a multi-staged approach designed to uncover key initiatives in the healthcare industry that could be considered a priority for each of the institutions. The three over-arching areas of focus that were identified during the formative stages of this partnership include: * The Education Committee * The Research Committee * St. Michael's Hospital's (SMH) New Family Practice Health Clinic Investigation Team - designed to investigate how Ryerson University and George Brown can support the new SMH-led Family Practice Health Clinic and within the inter-professional realms of the Family Practice of the 21st Century. "The strength of this partnership and keys to success in achieving the resulting research and educational outcomes reside in applying efficiency, collaboration and practical innovation to the current issues we face in the urban healthcare context," said Dr. Anastasios (Tas) Venetsanopoulos, Vice President, Research and Innovation, Ryerson University. "These translate directly into faster and more accurate delivery, higher cost savings, and a better and more holistic understanding of the needs of our urban community." Focusing on the health promotion and chronic disease management aspect of the partnership, the SMH-led Family Practice Health Clinic of the 21st Century will see clinicians assist patients with the behavioural changes necessary for optimal clinical outcomes. Central to this approach is the use of new media to enhance communication between patients and clinicians, and the development of supporting resources (e.g. books, blogs and websites) to help inform patients and ensure compliance with disease management. "St. Michael's is delighted to partner with Ryerson and George Brown to explore the best possible ways to define how family practice teams of the 21st century will provide the best patient care possible," said Robert J. Howard, MD, CEO of St. Michael's Hospital. Marking the first concrete result of the collaboration between the institutions, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) has allocated funding to George Brown College to conduct industry-responsive applied research supported by Ryerson University and St. Michael's Hospital. The NSERC funding is part of a government-driven pilot program designed to demonstrate the important role colleges and universities play in augmenting the innovative capacity and competitiveness of local industries. This initiative brings together expertise across the natural, social and health sciences - as well as engineering and humanities - to address practical, business-oriented problems. http://www.ryerson.ca/research/tripartite.html … read more>>

Dec. 16, 2009 - U of T research tops N.Y. Times' 2009 Ideas list
U of T research tops N.Y. Times' 2009 Ideas list Analysis shows that Agatha Christie likely suffered from Alzheimer's Research by University of Toronto professors Ian Lancashire and Graeme Hirst has garnered top spot in the N.Y. Times' 9th Annual Year in Ideas. Lancashire, a professor of English, and Hirst, a computer scientist, provide evidence that famed mystery novelist Agatha Christie suffered from Alzheimer's-related dementia during the final years of her life. It's a conclusion some of her biographers have reached, but the U of T duo offers proof. The pair digitized 14 of her novels and used textual analysis software to determine the richness and size of the vocabulary used, as well as phrases often repeated and an increase in the use of indefinite words, an indicator of the disease. Their results, published in a paper titled Vocabulary Changes in Agatha Christie's Mysteries as an Indication of Dementia, were statistically significant. They showed that her final two books use a much smaller vocabulary than her earlier works, with differences as large as 31 per cent. Other later works compared to her last two volumes also show a much richer vocabulary. "This publicity (and the honour it bestows) reflects a hope that an aging society has for ways to detect Alzheimer's disease, a human scourge, earlier than possible now," said Lancashire. "People in all walks of life can understand, and even become conscious of, a change in their personal language. People have a horde of email or blog entries now that go back some years. The simple vocabulary measures used in the poster, the graph, and the brief paper can be grasped and applied by anyone, privately, non-invasively. The findings astonished me when I found them two years ago. If the N.Y. Times recognition brings more medical researchers to study language, I'll be delighted. Lancashire said the New York Times publicity is also a recognition of the value of interdisciplinary research and the role the humanities have to play in such projects. "At Toronto, the N.Y.Times notice highlights the deep strength of this university in interdisciplinary research. Even English professors may have a role to play in practical research of broad public interest. I could not have presented and interpreted my findings properly without the collaboration of Graeme Hirst in computational linguistics, and Regina Jokel at Baycrest. I am so fortunate to work in a team now with these colleagues and Graeme's student, Xuan Le." Lancashire and Hirst plan to continue their textual analysis work, examining the writings of mystery novelist P.D. James, who continues to be prolific as she ages, and mystery writers such as Ross MacDonald, who is known to have suffered from Alzheimer's disease. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/arts/u-of-t-research-tops-ny-times-2009-ideas-list.html … read more>>

Dec. 16, 2009 - CFI awards U of T more than $3 million
CFI awards U of T more than $3 million 19 projects funded Wednesday, December 16, 2009 The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) has awarded U of T more than $3 million through the Leaders Opportunity Fund (LOF) and $950,676 through the Infrastructure Operating Fund (IOF). The contributions assist 19 projects concerning health, social and environmental issues. "The investments being announced today further enhance our country's reputation as a destination of choice for outstanding researchers," said Dr. Eliot Phillipson, CFI's president and CEO. Since its inception in 1997, CFI has committed almost $5.2 billion in support of more than 6,300 projects at 130 institutions in 65 municipalities across Canada. "The new infrastructure, supported by CFI, in U of T's Muscle Function and Performance Lab allows us to obtain novel measurements of skeletal muscle function in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a condition causing progressive muscle weakness and loss of independent walking ability in children by early to mid-teens," said Professor Sunita Mathur of physical therapy. "Our project develops new physical therapy interventions and clinical outcome measures that maintain independent mobility." Mathur is one of 19 U of T professors who will benefit from CFI investment. "LOF provides the core infrastructure for a major U of T child welfare initiative. We are creating Ontario's first longitudinal database of child protection services and building a laboratory that will house this and other key child welfare databases," said Professor Aron Shlonsky of the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work. "Once built, the laboratory and databases will generate timely and relevant evidence used to inform and guide policy-makers and practitioners from across Ontario as they contend with the multiple complex challenges faced by maltreated children." The latest round of funding also provides support to: Dionne Aleman (mechanical and industrial engineering), Irene Andrulis (molecular genetics), Shannon Dunn (immunology), Urban Emmenegger (medicine), Mark Fitzpatrick (U of T Scarborough, biological sciences), Geoffrey Hinton (computer science), Peter Kim (surgery), Philip Kim (medical research), Rebecca Laposa (pharmacology), Ryan Lilien (computer science), Carl Mitchell (U of T Scarborough, environmental science), Daniel Mueller (psychiatry), Elizabeth Page-Gould (U of T Scarborough, psychology), Matthew Ratto (information), Craig Steeves (aerospace), Guojun Yang (UTM, biology) and Rongmin Zhao (U of T Scarborough, biological sciences). "The marvellous support of CFI fuels our research community," said Professor Paul Young, vice-president (research) at U of T. "This investment will help our faculty generate a wealth of new discoveries that improve our health, extend our lives, raise our standard of living, and promote sustainable environmental practices. While no single measurement can quantify the magnitude of these benefits, CFI and similar programs can take pride in knowing they ignite brilliant progress." http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/cfi-awards-u-of-t-more-than-3-million.html … read more>>

Dec. 11, 2009 - UHN Researcher Named VP Education
UHN Researcher Named VP Education UHN congratulates Dr. Richard Reznick for being named the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada's new Vice-President of Education. Dr. Reznick's research interests have focused on assessment and technical skill acquisition. He was a key player in developing a performance-based examination that is now used for medical licensure in Canada. His research program at UHN focuses on the assessment of technical competence for surgeons and he supervises a fellowship program in surgical education. Since 1999, Dr. Reznick has been UHN's Vice President of Education. Dr. Reznick has served with many national and international medical organizations. He has worked with the Medical Council of Canada in a variety of roles including chairing the Objective Structured Clinical Examination Test Committee, and the Examination Development Advisory Committee. Dr. Reznick has also served as a governor of the American College of Surgeons, representing Ontario, and currently sits on their Committee on Emerging Surgical Technology and Education. Congratulations Dr. Reznick! Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 11, 2009 - OCI's Dr. James Till Honoured
OCI's Dr. James Till Honoured UHN congratulates Dr. James Till for being one of the inaugural inductees into the new Innovators Hall of Fame--created by the University of Saskatchewan's Brett Wilson Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence--which recognize researchers with a connection to the university who have changed the way people live, work and play. This induction recognizes Dr. Till for being a proponent of open access technology for medical journals related to cancer. Congratulations Dr. Till! Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 08, 2009 - Don't I know you? U of T research sheds light on how cues and context kick-
Don't I know you? U of T research sheds light on how cues and context kick-start memory recall We have all had the embarrassing experience of seeing an acquaintance in an unfamiliar setting. We know we know them but can't recall who they are. But with the correct cues from conversation or context, something seems to click and we can readily access very rich and vivid memories about the individual. A team of researchers from the University of Toronto and the Krembil Neuroscience Centre at the University Health Network have shed some light on this mysterious process, discovering that the hippocampus, a brain region in the temporal lobe, is only involved when cues enable us to recall these rich memories. "We used a technique called functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) that allows us to identify brain regions engaged during specific types of mental processes," said Melanie Cohn, a post-doctoral fellow in neuropsychology and lead author of the paper published online today by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences at www.pnas.org. In the first stage of the study, healthy young adults were exposed to pairings of oddly unrelated words, such as "alligator" and "chair," and invited to learn them by putting them in the same sentence and so on. Next, while being scanned in the fMRI, participants were shown a series of single words -- some of which had been studied in the word pairings and some of which had not. Participants were asked to rate their memory for each word in terms of how confident they were that it was a word that they had studied earlier or not. After each decision, participants were given a cue: the word was presented along with the word it was initially paired with. For about half of the familiar words, i.e., those that subjects recalled learning earlier, the pairing triggered rich detailed memories of the context -- such as the sentence they had made up to include both words -- in which the original pairing was learned. The fMRI scan showed hippocampus activity only when cues were used to retrieve memories. "This study is important because it resolves a current debate on the role of the hippocampus in retrieving memories. Some have argued it is the strength of the memory that matters most in retrieval. We have shown it is actually context that activates the hippocampus," explained Cohn. The findings also have direct relevance to understanding the type of memory problems found in epilepsy or Alzheimer's, diseases in which patients have suffered damage to the hippocampus. "Being able to characterize specific types of memory loss will lead to development of better clinical measures for diagnosis and monitoring of temporal-lobe dysfunction," she said. Other research team members from the Department of Psychology are Mary Pat McAndrews, who also holds an appointment with the Krembil Neuroscience Centre, Ayelet Lahat and Morris Moscovitch. Programming and data analysis were done by Marilyne Ziegler, Sybille Schulz, Megan Walberg and Deborah Shwartz, all members of the Department of Psychology. Research was funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/campus-news/dont-i-know-you-u-of-t-research-sheds-light-on-how-cues-and-context-kicksta-1.html … read more>>

Dec. 04, 2009 - U of T-led team identifies new stem cell
U of T-led team identifies new stem cell The skin is known for its ability to regenerate because the cells in the skin are constantly turning over. This "healing property" has attracted much attention from scientists wanting to know what makes the skin repair itself. Researchers at the University of Toronto and the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) are now a step closer to understanding its regenerative power. The scientists are the first to identify a stem cell for the dermis or the second layer of the skin. The study is published in the Dec. 4 issue of Cell Stem Cell. Researchers found that a group of cells called skin-derived precursors (SKPs) act as the dermal stem cells. Stem cells are cells that are able to retain their capability of making many different types of cells. The study shows that these SKPs can maintain the dermis and participate in wound healing. "Understanding the regeneration of the dermis is very important in understanding how wounds heal," said Professor Freda Miller of molecular genetics, the study's principal investigator and a senior scientist at SickKids. "If we can understand wound healing, then we can address the many conditions and diseases that involve wounds that don't repair themselves." Miller and her team were one of the first to show that the skin is an accessible source of stem cells that can generate non-skin cell types and have been using these stem cells for their work on spinal cord injury. "It is perhaps not surprising that SKPs turn out to be an endogenous dermal stem cell since the dermis includes many different cell types such as blood cells, fat cells and nerves." The study showed that SKPs not only maintained skin and healed wounds; they also made hair grow. To do this, the SKPs acted as "bandleaders telling the rest of the musicians on the upper level of the skin [epidermis cells] to make hair follicles," she explained. And while there are many studies focused on cell therapy or bringing new cells into a tissue to treat disease, Miller hopes to further advance the field of personalized medicine by identifying and understanding stem cells. "I think a lot of people in the field are hoping that one day we won't even have to think about cell therapy and we will be able to harness the stem cells our own tissues to repair the body," Miller said. "Imagine if it would be possible to give someone a drug to recruit their own stem cells and thereby repair their tissues." This research was supported by grants from Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Canadian Stem Cell Network, Howard Hughes Medical Institute and SickKids Foundation. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-tled-team-identifys-new-stem-cell.html … read more>>

Dec. 04, 2009 - Lung Transplantation: Gene Therapy Repairs Injured Lungs
Lung Transplantation: Gene Therapy Repairs Injured LungsIn a world first, a TGRI team led by Dr. Shaf Keshavjee has successfully used gene therapy to repair previously unsuitable donor lungs for transplantation. The eloquent series of investigations, conducted outside the body, were used to probe inflammation and organ rejection, two main complications after transplant surgery. Explains first author Dr. Marcelo Cypel, "Anything we can do to prevent lung injury, especially in the first 72 critical hours after surgery, would have a significant impact on survival and quality of life after transplantation." Studies were conducted in large animal and human models of end-stage lung disease. Using an innovative procedure that was developed by the team, donor lungs were maintained at normal body temperature and administered IL-10 gene therapy. IL-10 was the chosen gene therapy candidate specifically for its anti-inflammatory capabilities. Findings showed that lungs treated with IL-10 gene therapy had significantly improved blood flow throughout the organ and were considerably better at taking in fresh oxygen and removing carbon dioxide. In fact, the effect was so significant it lasted up to 30 days post-surgery. "We are very excited," says Dr. Keshavjee. "It is as if gene therapy 'turbocharges' each individual cell to manufacture many more proteins in its own IL-10 factory. This protein decreases the inflammatory potential of cells injured before and during the transplant process. It also has the capacity to turn down the recipient's immune system, which rejects the transplanted organ." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 30, 2009 - Breast Cancer: Understanding the Relationship between Treatment and Menopau
Breast Cancer: Understanding the Relationship between Treatment and Menopause Findings from a recent OCI-led study into the relationship between adjuvant chemotherapy and the early onset of menopause are providing important information for young women to consider over the course of their treatment regarding symptom severity and the probability of early menopause. With colleagues from Australia and France, UHN lead author Dr. Ian Tannock recruited 41 women who had undergone menopause as a result of chemotherapy and 57 healthy women who had undergone recent natural menopause to complete two questionnaires evaluating symptom severity, quality of life, and fatigue following two annual clinic visits. The group found that patients who underwent menopause as a result of chemotherapy reported worse menopausal symptoms (and in particular, worse hot flashes) than women who had undergone natural menopause. “Our findings provide strong evidence towards the notion that women undergoing chemotherapy-induced menopause may experience worse symptoms than women undergoing natural menopause,” reports Dr. Tannock. “A large percentage of women will experience early menopause as a result of chemotherapy. These findings will assist patients in making an informed decision about adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer that will now include knowledge of the risk of premature menopause and the frequency and severity of the associated symptoms.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 27, 2009 - Brain Injury: Determining What Contributes to Damage
Brain Injury: Determining What Contributes to Damage Hypoxia or ischemia—a shortage of oxygen and blood supply—can cause serious injury in the central nervous system. A TWRI team has discovered a previously unknown mechanism in signaling that may contribute to long term injury. Comments study lead Dr. Peter Carlen, “There are two types of synaptic release mechanisms that contribute to the accumulation of glutamate, a neurotransmitter in the brain that, in higher concentrations, can contribute to neural injury. What our investigations have done is take a closer look at one of the mechanisms to determine how it contributes to injury and if we can understand how to stop this from happening.” With Dr. Hui Ye, the researcher driving this study, the team investigated the mechanics of the action potential (AP)-dependent and independent pathways under normal and hypoxic/ischemic conditions in brain tissue to understand if or how these pathways may contribute to the release of glutamate. Findings show that the AP-dependent pathway remarkably contributes to 74% of the overall glutamate release—which poses a serious disturbance to brain networks and their normal functioning. “The kind of AP-dependent release we observed in our studies could occur almost immediately in an animal after a critical decrease in oxygenated blood supply,” explains Dr. Carlen. “An outpouring such as this could play a significant role in later irreversible damaging changes in the brain. Our future studies will look to see how we can prevent something like this from happening.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 26, 2009 - Diabetes: Focusing on Early Diabetes Complications
Diabetes: Focusing on Early Diabetes Complications More emphasis should be placed on mechanisms that initiate early decline in renal function that eventually progress to advanced kidney failure—which can require hemodialysis or kidney transplantation—in some patients with Type I Diabetes (T1D), according to TGRI study findings reported in this month’s Kidney International. Currently, it is believed that the development of advanced kidney failure only occurs after proteinuria (the finding of a large amount of protein in the urine indicating kidney damage) has been present for months or years. Led by UHN’s Dr. Bruce Perkins, the team tracked 79 patients with T1D for an average of 12 years after the onset of microalbuminuria—the first early sign of damage that occurs years before proteinuria—to follow changes in their renal function and urine proteins. Surprisingly, as many as one-third of patients with T1D developed advanced kidney failure only 12 years after the onset of microalbuminuria. Few patients who progressed to advanced chronic kidney disease developed proteinuria—which did not precede, but accompanied the progression to advanced-stage kidney disease. “Our findings are surprising because we’ve been able to show for the first time that the process of renal function loss begins very early, at a stage when we would usually regard a patient with T1D as fairly healthy,” explains Dr. Perkins. “There is strong evidence here that microalbuminuria is not a sufficiently robust marker for the development of advanced-stage kidney disease in T1D patients. We need to direct research towards discovering markers of damage that could identify those at risk of advanced-stage kidney disease 5 to 10 years before its development, when the potential to prevent progression still exists.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 25, 2009 - Parkinson’s Disease: ‘Stimulating’ Ways to Prevent Falls
Parkinson’s Disease: ‘Stimulating’ Ways to Prevent Falls Deep-brain stimulation (DBS) of the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN)—a region of the brain involved in posture and gait control—may be effective in preventing falls in patients with advanced Parkinson’s Disease (PD) as outlined in a recent study from investigators at TWRI. Currently, gait and postural instability are some of the main burdens of disease in patients with PD and their pathophysiology remains unknown—perhaps until now. Specifically, for patients with PD, falls and walking difficulty are a major source of disability. Led by Dr. Andres Lozano and colleagues Drs. Elena Moro, Jonathan Dostrovsky and William Hutchison, the team conducted a double-blind study of the effects of DBS of the PPN in six advanced PD patients with significant gait and posture abnormalities. Patients having undergone surgery to implant the electrodes for DBS in the PPN reported a significant reduction in the number of falls two years post-surgery. Significant improvements were also noted in walking and other non-motor features such as rapid eye movement sleep in comparison to pre-surgery. The UHN team is pioneering the use of PPN DBS surgery in patients with PD. “Our study lends further support to the important role PPN plays in regulating or coordinating brain events responsible for falls in PD patients,” says Dr. Lozano. “Larger scale studies are needed to determine future therapy targets, as well as the full benefits and potential side effects of PPN DBS for patients with gait and posture disturbances who are disabled by falls.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 25, 2009 - CIPO’s New Draft Guidelines Could Result in Higher Disclosure Standards for
CIPO’s New Draft Guidelines Could Result in Higher Disclosure Standards for Canadian Patent The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) has released a further update to the Manual of Patent Office Practice (MOPOP), an administrative document of CIPO that examiners refer to during the patent examination process. The latest update is a draft version of Chapter 9: Descriptions, and is now available for public comment. Chapter 9 sets out CIPO’s views on the description requirements of Canadian patent applications. While the MOPOP does not carry the force of law, it reflects CIPO’s interpretation of the patent statute and surrounding jurisprudence and the administrative position that CIPO is likely to take when examining an application. http://www.torys.com/Publications/Documents/Publication%20PDFs/IP2009-10.pdf … read more>>

Nov. 24, 2009 - Head & Neck Cancer: Clarifying Trial Terminology
Head & Neck Cancer: Clarifying Trial Terminology An OCI-led investigation into the challenges of reporting relevant end-points in clinical trials for head and neck cancers is providing important evidence in support of the need to standardize the selection, definition and reporting of time-to-event end-points in clinical trials of locally advanced squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (SCCHN), or head and neck cancer. Notes study lead Dr. Lillian Siu, “For reasons such as complex anatomy and management, SCCHN represents a challenging disease for the reporting of end-points and tracking end-points in clinical trials. We wanted to understand why this might be so.” Along with research counterparts at the Institut Gustave Roussy in France, the team reviewed all English published randomized trials that began on or after 1978 and enrolled previously untreated patients with nonmetastatic SCCHN that had also received primary radiotherapy with or without any concomitant anticancer agent. Surprisingly, the team discovered a total of 17 different types of end-points with locoregional control and overall survival accounting for 70% of primary trial end points. However, among 72 end-points tracking locoregional data, 29% of studies did not define the term at all. Dr. Siu further explained that key information was omitted in many reports including variations in scheduled timing. Methods to track failures were also frequently missing in published reports. These findings provide strong evidence towards standardizing definitions similar to those used in the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group 0522 Trial and reporting beyond the first failure to capture the full pattern of disease evolution in patients with SCCHN. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 23, 2009 - Lung Transplantation: Gene Therapy Repairs Injured Lungs
Lung Transplantation: Gene Therapy Repairs Injured Lungs In a world first, a TGRI team led by Dr. Shaf Keshavjee has successfully used gene therapy to repair previously unsuitable donor lungs for transplantation. The eloquent series of investigations, conducted outside the body, were used to probe inflammation and organ rejection, two main complications after transplant surgery. Explains first author Dr. Marcelo Cypel, “Anything we can do to prevent lung injury, especially in the first 72 critical hours after surgery, would have a significant impact on survival and quality of life after transplantation.” Studies were conducted in large animal and human models of end-stage lung disease. Using an innovative procedure that was developed by the team, donor lungs were maintained at normal body temperature and administered IL-10 gene therapy. IL-10 was the chosen gene therapy candidate specifically for its anti-inflammatory capabilities. Findings showed that lungs treated with IL-10 gene therapy had significantly improved blood flow throughout the organ and were considerably better at taking in fresh oxygen and removing carbon dioxide. In fact, the effect was so significant it lasted up to 30 days post-surgery. “We are very excited,” says Dr. Keshavjee. “It is as if gene therapy ‘turbocharges’ each individual cell to manufacture many more proteins in its own IL-10 factory. This protein decreases the inflammatory potential of cells injured before and during the transplant process. It also has the capacity to turn down the recipient’s immune system, which rejects the transplanted organ.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 16, 2009 - U of T, SickKids researchers discover Hedgehogs could play a role in treati
U of T, SickKids researchers discover Hedgehogs could play a role in treating osteoarthritis Family of proteins may hold key to reducing pain, discomfort Monday, November 16, 2009 Researchers at the University of Toronto and the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) have found a pharmacological approach to treating the disease. The study is published in the November 15 advance online edition of Nature Medicine. "If used in patients this could be the first example of a treatment to prevent the degeneration of joints," said the study's principal investigator, Benjamin Alman, professor of surgery at the University of Toronto and head of orthopaedic surgery and senior scientist at SickKids. "It would be a true biological approach to attack the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis." Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a painful and debilitating disease affecting over 200 million people worldwide. It occurs when the cartilage in the joints wear down over time. However, it is not a paediatric condition and SickKids researchers didn't set out to find a solution. The scientists had actually been investigating the role a family of proteins, called Hedgehog, play in the development of cartilage tumours, when they stumbled upon a unexpected observation. They found that when Hedgehog proteins were activated in mice, the mice developed osteoarthritis. Hedgehog proteins are known to play an important role in regulating chondrocytes, or cells that make up the joints or growth plates. Chondrocytes in joints or cartilage are smooth cells that are present for a lifetime. However, chondrocytes in growth plates (cells responsible for making people tall) grow, die off and make bone. Results of this study indicate that in osteoarthritis, the cartilage joint chondrocytes behave more like growth plate chondrocytes. Patients and mice who had osteoarthritis also had a high level of Hedgehog. They also found if they increased the level of Hedgehog, mice developed osteoarthritis. More importantly, they found when the protein was blocked either genetically or by using a Hedgehog blocking drug, they were able to reduce the amount of arthritis that developed. "We may have found a very promising approach to blocking the amount of joint damage and slowing down the progression of the disease," said Alman. "It might prevent people from having to get joint replacements. They can lead active lives and reduce the pain and discomfort associated with the disease." This research was supported by Canadian Institutes of Health Research and SickKids Foundation. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-sickkids-researchers-discover-hedgehogs-could-play-a-role-in-treatin.html … read more>>

Nov. 16, 2009 - PMH Pioneer Honoured by Canadian Medical Hall of Fame
PMH Pioneer Honoured by Canadian Medical Hall of Fame Announced on Nov 16, 2009 We are proud to announce that Dr. Vera Peters (1911-1993) will be inducted into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame, recognizing her efforts in changing the management of Hodgkin's disease and breast cancer. Dr. Peters is renowned for her 1950 seminal discovery that Hodgkin's disease could be cured with radiation. Her approach became known as the "Toronto approach" which had treatment tailored to the individual disease characteristics effectively minimizing treatment exposure--a process which took 30 years to be accepted. She was also an early advocate of breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) followed by radiation, which is as effective as radical masectomy. She has been recognized throughout her career with many accolades including being appointed a Member of the Order of Canada (1975), and an Officer of the Order of Canada (1977); she was awarded a Medal from Centre Antoine Beclere (Paris) and was the first R.M. Taylor Medal and Award recipient (1979) from the Canadian Cancer Society. Also in 1979, Dr. Peters received the Gold Medal Award from the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology which is bestowed on revered members who have made outstanding contributions to the field of radiation oncology. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 11, 2009 - BioDiscovery Toronto Technology Showcase 2009
BioDiscovery Toronto Technology Showcase 2009 November 11, 2009 Detail: TBA … read more>>

Nov. 06, 2009 - Neurology: Mapping Nerve Changes in the Brain
Neurology: Mapping Nerve Changes in the Brain Nov 06, 2009 Recent results from a team of TWRI investigators is helping to determine if the brain landscape changes following upper limb surgical repair of cut nerves. Severe nerve injuries--as a result of various accidental and work-related injuries--require surgery after they have been cut. UHN investigator Dr. Karen Davis, Dr. Dimitri Anastakis and PhD student Keri Taylor used powerful magnetic resonance imaging techniques to assess functional structural changes in the brains of 14 patients who had surgical repair of major nerves in the arm that had been completely cut. These patients had impaired function of the repaired nerves, reduced grey and white matter (major structural components of the brain), and functional changes in key areas of the brain that process information related to touch and pain. Many of these brain changes correlated with the severity of sensory loss. "We see the majority of injuries in 16-35 year olds, and many of these patients suffer years of disability and economic difficulties," says Dr. Davis. "The more we understand the consequences of nerve injury, the more we will come to know about the mechanisms of how the brain changes to deal with this trauma and its relation to sensory function. This is important because it may help to develop new treatment strategies and intervention programs." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 30, 2009 - U of T rated top Canadian university for academic and research performance
U of T rated top Canadian university for academic and research performance in prestigious international rankings 29th in the world, says Shanghi Jiao Tong University Friday, October 30, 2009 The University of Toronto's strong academic and research performance ranks among the best in the world -- and the best in Canada -- in prestigious international rankings body announced Oct. 30. U of T ranked 27th, the best of any Canadian university, in Shanghai Jiao Tong University's annual Academic Ranking of World Universities report. Released Oct. 29, the report analyses 1,200 universities on research output, the quality of faculty and the quality of education. U o fT finished 24th in these rankings last year and 23rd in 2007. "This ranking is further affirmation of the quality of U of T's faculty and students and their relentless focus on academic excellence and discoveries of real importance," said Professor Cheryl Misak, vice-president and provost. "We're very honoured to be recognized by our international peers as being among the best research universities in the world." The university also fared well in Shanghai's ranking by field and by individual subject. In particular, U of T finished 8th in the world in the subject of computer science and 19th internationally in the field of engineering, technology and computer sciences. Shanghai Jiao Tong ranks universities by measuring several indicators of academic or research performance. These include alumni and staff winning Nobel Prizes and Fields Medals; highly cited researchers; articles published in Nature and Science; articles indexed in major citation indices; and the per capita academic performance of an institution. Harvard University was the top university in the rankings, followed by Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley.Since Shanghai Jiao Tong's rankings began in 2003, U of T has consistently ranked in the top 30 of the world's best universities and has consistently been the top Canadian performer. This year's result comes on the heels of impressive scores in other international and domestic rankings: - 11th in rankings compiled by the Higher Education Evaluation andAccreditation Council of Taiwan (HEEACT);- 13th-place finish in ScienceWatch.com;- fourth in SCImago Institutions Rankings;- ninth in the Times Higher Education - QS World University Rankings thatsurveyed almost 10,000 international academics about the reputation of621 universities worldwide; and- first in the medical/doctoral category in Research Infosource Inc.rankings. For full result of the Shanghai Jiao Tong University rankings, go to http://www.arwu.org/ . http://www.news.utoronto.ca/campus-news/u-of-t-rated-top-canadian-university-for-academic-and-research-performance.html … read more>>

Oct. 30, 2009 - New California Partnership Spurs Stem Cell Research
New California Partnership Spurs Stem Cell Research Oct 30, 2009 The Cancer Stem Cell Consortium (CSCC) announced earlier this week that two multidisciplinary cancer stem cell projects co-led by UHN researchers Drs. John Dick, Tak Mak and investigators in California, have been awarded funding through the Collaborative Partnership Program with The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM). The two Canada-California collaborative projects on cancer stem cells were selected from 31 applications that targeted a broad range of diseases and injury. Comments Dr. Christopher Paige, UHN VP Research, "This funding will enable Drs. John Dick and Tak Mak and their research teams at UHN and across Canada to accelerate the work to translate stem cell research into effective, targeted cancer treatments. We are enormously proud to be able to continue to build on the legacy of the original stem cell discovery here in 1961 by Drs. James Till and Ernest McCulloch." Led by Dr. Dick and the University of California, San Diego's Dr. Dennis Carson, the team will focus research efforts on the development of novel drugs to treat leukemia. This project will directly address the urgent need for new therapeutic interventions as half of adults diagnosed with leukemia die of the disease. Dr. Mak and Dr. Dennis Slamon at UCLA will use a pipeline strategy to develop novel drugs targeting cancer-initiating cells in solid tumour cancers. Reviewers of the application determined that the proposed drugs would provide a significant clinical benefit to cancer patients and recognized the unique capabilities of the assembled team to successfully identify and develop new drugs. Each Canadian team has requested close to $20M over four years, with their Californian partners requesting similar levels of funding from CIRM. Funding for the Canadian scientists is being provided by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and Genome Canada. For more information visit cancerstemcellconsortium.com. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 28, 2009 - U of T benefits from Ontario Research Fund to tune of $104 million
U of T benefits from Ontario Research Fund to tune of $104 million Investment is part of nearly $0.3 billion initiative Wednesday, October 28, 2009 Ontario Minister of Research and Innovation John Milloy was on campus Oct. 28 to announce funding for stem cell research as part of the Ontario Research Fund-Research Infrastructure Program. The funding comes as part of nearly $0.3 billion invested in research infrastructure at the University of Toronto and partner hospitals to enable the world class research and help make Ontario and Canada a global leaders in the innovation-based economy of the 21st century. The province highlighted its $9.932 million investment in the Ontario Initiative in Personalized Stem Cell Medicine, a project led by Professor Janet Rossant of the Departments of Molecular Genetics and Obstetrics and Gynaecology and the Hospital for Sick Children. Her team of 30 world-renowned stem cell researchers will use some of the most advanced technologies on the planet to develop cutting-edge health care products. The initiative will also develop intellectual property and work with local and international partners on commercialization of products. The funding is part of a wider investment totaling $290 million for U of T and its partner hospitals--$135 million from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI), $104 million from the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Research (MRI) and Innovation and $52 million from institutional and other partners. This is a huge success for U of T and the hospitals," said Professor Paul Young, U of T's vice-president (research). "Together we have earned 20 per cent of the total funding available nationally from CFI and over 40 per cent of the funding provided by MRI. I'm especially gratified because the projects we submit are subject to rigorous excellence-based peer review. This is confirmation that our researchers are carrying out world class, ground-breaking work that will contribute to social and economic impact for Ontario and Canada." The provincial portion of the funding, through the Ontario Research Fund, is part of the province's plan to move research from the lab to the marketplace. The province aims to ensure that researchers have the tools they need to be world leaders in their fields. "In the 21st century, economic stimulus must create jobs today and tomorrow," said Milloy. "It must be both shovels in the ground, and support for innovative people and innovative thinking. Today's funding is part of a larger investment in research infrastructure that will support 1,300 construction jobs and over 3,300 scientists across our province -- including 400 highly-skilled research jobs right here in the GTA. Today we are demonstrating, once again, that our government understands the value of science to our economy today and for creating the jobs of the future." In addition to Rossant's project, the province invested in 15 other campus-based projects and 10 hospital-based projects. "Ever since stem cells were discovered at U of T by Dr. James Till and Dr. Ernest McCulloch, I'm proud to say that we have been a hotbed of research into this most promising scientific avenue," said Young. "We are grateful to the province for having the foresight to invest in this cutting-edge research." Young also noted that stem cell research is just one of the critical research areas in which the province is investing.. "The province is generously investing in projects as diverse as a digital media centre and the industrial application of microcellular plastics. What these projects have in common is that they are driven by the intellectual curiosity and creativity of scientists who seek not only to advance science but to make a positive impact on global society." http://www.news.utoronto.ca/campus-news/u-of-t-benefits-from-ontario-research-fund.html … read more>>

Oct. 28, 2009 - TWO RESEARCH TEAMS FUNDED THROUGH THE INNOVATIVE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM BETWEE
TWO RESEARCH TEAMS FUNDED THROUGH THE INNOVATIVE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM BETWEEN CANADA AND CALIFORNIA TO ADVANCE CANCER STEM CELL RESEARCH Ottawa, October 28, 2009 ¨C The Cancer Stem Cell Consortium (CSCC) is pleased to announce that two multi©\disciplinary research teams co©\led by Canadian and Californian scientists have been awarded funding through a Collaborative Partnership Program with The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM). The program supports research that will result in a cancer stem cell based therapy with the specific aim of improving cancer treatment. ¡°We are really pleased that our first international partnership has met with such success for Canadian cancer stem cell research and we look forward to future targeted initiatives with CIRM,¡± said Dr. James Till, President, CSCC. The first project is led by Dr. John Dick, University Health Network and Dr. Dennis Carson, University of California, San Diego. Their research will focus on the development of novel drugs to treat leukemia, which will address a compelling medical need as half of adults diagnosed with leukemia die of the disease. Substantial evidence supports the concept that recurrence and persistence of many leukemias stem from the relative resistance of leukemic stem cells (LSCs) to treatments currently in use, so the development of drugs that preferentially target LSCs may be particularly valuable in attacking both lymphoid and myeloid malignancies. The goal of the second project is to utilize a pipeline strategy to develop novel drugs targeting cancer©\initiating cells in solid tumor cancers. This project is led by Dr. Tak Mak, University Health Network and Dr. Dennis Slamon, UCLA. The reviewers of this application determined that the proposed drugs would provide a significant clinical benefit to cancer patients and recognized the unique capabilities of the assembled team to successfully identify and develop new drugs. ¡°International collaborations that bring together the best scientists in the world to focus on important health issues have the highest likelihood of success,¡± said Dr. C. Thomas Caskey, Chairman of the Board of Genome Canada. ¡°This initiative between the CSCC and CIRM provides the opportunity for Canadian and Californian scientists to combine their expertise and focus on cancer stem cells. These cells are widely believed to be the root cause of cancer and responsible for its reoccurrence and spread. Genome Canada supports this ambitious undertaking with its objectives of making new discoveries and turning them into new therapies.¡± Both Canadian scientists have been recognized internationally for their contributions to the field of cancer research. Dr. John Dick is an award©\winning scientist, credited with first identifying cancer stem cells in human leukemia. His discovery spawned a new direction in cancer research. Dr. Tak Mak is an acclaimed immunologist renowned for his 1984 discovery of cloning the human T©\cell receptor. His role in the development of genetically altered mice for scientific study has led to important breakthroughs in immunology and understanding cancer at the cellular level. "This initiative is bringing together the leading minds in cancer and stem cell research from Canada and California," said Dr. Morag Park, Scientific Director of the Institute of Cancer Research, part of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Government of Canada's health research agency. "CIHR, in conjunction with Genome Canada and through the Cancer Stem Cell Consortium, is proud to fund Canadian Scientists in this cross©\border collaboration that will engage scientists from many disciplines, combine resources, technologies and knowledge to find more effective treatments for Leukemia and solid cell tumours." The two Canada©\California collaborative projects on cancer stem cells were selected from thirty©\one applications, which targeted a broad range of diseases and injury. Each Canadian team has requested close to $20 million CAD over four years, with their Californian partners requesting similar levels of funding from CIRM. Funding for the Canadian scientists is being provided by two members of the CSCC, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and Genome Canada. Californian scientists will be funded by CIRM. ¡°This funding will enable Drs. John Dick and Tak Mak and their research teams at University Health Network and across Canada to accelerate the work to translate stem©\cell research into effective, targeted cancer treatments," said Dr. Christopher Paige, VP, Research at the University Health Network. "We are enormously proud to be able to continue to build on the legacy of the original stem©\cell discovery here in 1961 by Drs. James Till and Ernest McCulloch." THE CANCER STEM CELL CONSORTIUM The Cancer Stem Cell Consortium is a not©\for©\profit corporation that was incorporated in 2007 to coordinate an international strategy for cancer stem cell research and related translational activities. The strategy will allow the biomedical community to move quickly and effectively from discoveries to application in the clinic; establish partnerships among organizations from Canada, California and other jurisdictions to accelerate and synergize research and translation opportunities related to cancer stem cells; and secure investments from governments, private foundations and the private sector for sustained and stable research funding. Current Consortium members include: the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Genome Canada, the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research, the National Research Council Canada, the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research and the Stem Cell Network. CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE FOR REGENERATIVE MEDICINE CIRM was established in November 2004 with the passage of Proposition 71, the California Stem Cell Research and Cures Act. The statewide ballot measure, which provided $3 billion in funding for stem cell research at California universities and research institutions, was overwhelmingly approved by voters, and called for the establishment of an entity to make grants and provide loans for stem cell research, research facilities, and other vital research opportunities. As of October 1, 2009 the CIRM governing board has approved 301 grants totaling more than $781 million, making CIRM the largest source of funding for human embryonic stem cell research in the world. GENOME CANADA Genome Canada is a not©\for©\profit Corporation that acts as the primary funding and information resource relating to genomics and proteomics in Canada. Its main objective is to position Canada as a world leader in genomics and proteomics research. Dedicated to developing and implementing a national strategy in genomics and proteomics research for the benefit of all Canadians, it has received $840 million in funding from the Government of Canada since 2000 to which has been added close to $1.0 billion in partnered co©\funding and interest earnings. THE CANADIAN INSTITUTES OF HEALTH RESEARCH The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) is the Government of Canada's agency for health research. CIHR's mission is to create new scientific knowledge and to catalyze its translation into improved health, more effective health services and products, and a strengthened Canadian health©\care system. Composed of 13 Institutes, CIHR provides leadership and support to more than 13,000 health researchers and trainees across Canada. Media queries: David Coulombe H¨¦l¨¨ne Meilleur Media Specialist Director, Communications & Events Canadian Institutes of Health Research Genome Canada Telephone: 613©\941©\4563 Telephone: 613©\751©\4460 ext. 116 Cell: 613©\808©\7526 Cell: 613©\355©\5968 David.Coulombe@irsc©\cihr.gc.ca hmeilleur@genomecanada.ca … read more>>

Oct. 27, 2009 - U of T ranks No. 1 in annual Canadian research rankings
U of T ranks No. 1 in annual Canadian research rankings Tops standings for fourth consecutive year Tuesday, October 27, 2009 For the fourth consecutive year, the University of Toronto has earned the highest possible marks from Research Infosource Inc. in its annual rankings for the best Canadian research universities of 2009. U of T placed first overall in the Medical/Doctoral category once again in this year's results. The ranking is determined by several criteria, including the amount of research a university published in a given year as well as the level of funding generated for that research. "This is a marvelous tribute to the brilliant and innovative work of UofT scholars and researchers," said Professor Paul Young, vice-president (research). "It is further evidence that our research is making a tangible impact on global society across the disciplines in the life sciences, physical sciences, social sciences and humanities. I extend my congratulations to the UofT research community on this brilliant showing." The rankings are included in Research Infosource's Canada Top 50 Research Universities List 2009, published on its Web site, www.researchinfosource.com. UofT has performed well in a number of prestigious rankings this year that have focused on the University's research performance compared to its international peers. This summer, the University was 11th in rankings compiled by the Higher Education Evaluation and Accreditation Council of Taiwan (HEEACT), followed by a 13th-place finish by ScienceWatch.com.In September, the SCImago Institutions Rankings (SIR) placed UofT fourth amongst institutions of higher learning. Most recently, the Times Higher Education -- QS World University Rankings surveyed almost 10,000 international academics to rank the reputation of 621 universities worldwide (excluding their own institution) and UofT placed ninth worldwide in that peer review. Research Infosource obtained its data from Statistics Canada and the Research Infosource Canadian University R&D database. The score in each category is out of a possible 100 points based on the following indicators: total sponsored research income (20 per cent); faculty research intensity (20 per cent); total number of publications (20 per cent); publication intensity in leading journals (20 per cent); and, publication impact (20 per cent). For each measure, the top ranking institution is assigned a score of 100 and the other institutions' scores are calculated as a percentage of the first ranking institution. Research Infosource Inc. is a division of The Impact Group, a source of research and development information in Canada. Full results of the rankings can be seen at www.researchinfosource.com. … read more>>

Oct. 26, 2009 - Gairdner Foundation, U of T celebrate top-notch biomedical science
Gairdner Foundation, U of T celebrate top-notch biomedical science Public lecture Oct. 30 Monday, October 26, 2009 From Oct. 28 to 30 many of the world's top biomedical researchers will convene at the University of Toronto for The Gairdner Foundation 50th Anniversary Toronto Symposium. The Gairdner Foundation, overseer of the prestigious Canada Gairdner Awards for contributions to medical science and research, reached its half-century this year and U of T is hosting the party. The three-day event brings together Gairdner Award winners - including 23 Nobel Prize winners - for a series of lectures and panel discussions on topics that range from the personalized genome to stem cell research to global health issues to chronic disease. Faculty of Medicine dean Catharine Whiteside said U of T is privileged to play host to the prestigious event. "The Gairdner prizes have become the most significant life science award in Canada. The winners provide great inspiration to our faculty and students, and that's why we at U of T are very fortunate and honoured to be associated with such a prestigious event," said Whiteside. Among the Nobel winners in attendance will be Elizabeth Blackburn, 2009 Nobel Prize winner in medicine. Blackburn is also a member of the Gairdner Medical Advisory Board. Blackburn and co-winner Carol Greider (with Jack W. Szostak) won their Gairdner Awards in 1998 for the same work that prompted the Nobel 11 years later. On the day of the announcement, Professor Emeritus John Dirks, president and scientific director of the Gairdner Foundation, told the media: "Today's announcement demonstrates the Gairdner Foundation's long-standing track record of recognizing the significance of medical research breakthroughs early, in this case, 11 years before the Nobels. It's especially gratifying to have two Gairdner winners also win a Nobel Prize during our 50th anniversary." The awards recognize and reward the achievements of medical researchers whose work contributes significantly to improving the quality of human life. Since the first awards were made in 1959, the Gairdner Awards have become Canada's foremost international awards. Of the 298 individuals from 13 countries, including 42 Canadians, who have received Gairdner Awards, 73 have subsequently gone on to win the Nobel Prize. They are globally respected international prizes, and the Gairdner Foundation is the only national organization that consistently brings the world's best biomedical researchers to Canada to share their ideas and work with scientists across the country. The symposium will culminate with a Gairdner and Gairdner/Nobel Public Forum at Convocation Hall on the evening of October 30. Visit www.gairdner.org for a schedule of and registration information. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/gairdner-foundation-u-of-t-celebrate-topnotch-biomedical-science.html … read more>>

Oct. 22, 2009 - U of T researchers define barriers to successful heart cell transplants
U of T researchers define barriers to successful heart cell transplants Thursday, October 22, 2009 Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a novel cell injection test-bed to evaluate the barriers to transplanted cell integration with cardiac tissue. The results provide insights into the barriers that should be considered during heart cell transplantation studies. The research teams, led by Professor Peter Zandstra of the Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering (IBBME) in collaboration with Professor Milica Radisic of chemical engineering and applied chemistry and IBBME, have developed and tested a method that allows rapid screening of different cell types for their capacity to functionally integrate into heart tissue and provides insights into the barriers that, until now, have prevented transplanted cells from adequately merging with the patient's heart tissue. The specific outcomes are reported by lead author Hannah Song."Muscle cells that make up the heart's tissue are permanently lost during a heart attack," said Song, post-doctoral fellow in the Zandstra and Radisic labs. "This cell loss is one of the leading causes of heart failure. Although cell transplantation can result in modest improvements in cardiac function, several challenges remain, including how to increase the survival, integration and functionality of the transplanted cells within the host tissue." This study used a cardiac tissue model, engineered heart tissue, and quantitative molecular and electrophysiological analyses as a test-bed to screen transplantation conditions and specific cell populations for their potential to functionally integrate with host tissue. Of particular value to scientists is this method's ability to significantly reduce the time and effort needed to screen known or new cell populations and drugs for their cardiac cell therapy potential, as well as new knowledge about barriers that should be considered during in vivo cardiac cell transplantation studies. In addition, the study suggests, for the first time, conditions that may allow pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiac progenitor cells to be effectively delivered for cardiac cell therapy. "This is a testament to the extraordinary achievements by our leading researchers who are at the nexus of engineering and medicine in the university's world-leading Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering," said Professor Cristina Amon, dean of the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering. "Innovative engineering breakthroughs like this will enhance our healthcare treatments and advance Canada's innovation agenda." "The work of Professor Zandstra and his colleagues is a great example of how their dedication and innovation in the lab can and will have a tremendous impact on the lives of patients," said Professor Catharine Whiteside, dean of the Faculty of Medicine. The research was published Oct. 21 in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and was funded in part by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-researchers-define-barriers-to-successful-heart-cell-transplants.html … read more>>

Oct. 22, 2009 - Atherosclerosis: Understanding the Beginnings of Disease
Atherosclerosis: Understanding the Beginnings of Disease Announced on Oct 22, 2009 The development of lesions that thicken artery walls due to the build-up of cells and fatty materials, such as cholesterol, is known as atherosclerosis. While the exact mechanisms behind how atherosclerotic lesions form are currently unknown, important study findings from a team of investigators at TGRI may ultimately change this. Dr. Myron Cybulsky and his team paired a specific cell labeling technique with state-of-the-art microscopy to survey how immune cells accumulate in artery walls to form the initial lesions of atherosclerosis. They found that in response to a high-fat diet, immune cells in the artery wall divide and more immune cells are recruited from the blood into the artery wall. Over time, both divided and recruited immune cells accumulate in the artery, ingest fatty materials, and thus thicken the wall. Previously, it was not appreciated that immune cells divide in early stages of atherosclerosis. "By adding an additional molecular layer of investigations to the previously mentioned imaging studies, we were able to show that the GM-CSF protein, which is normally involved in several immune-cell functions, is responsible for immune cell division in early lesions," explains Dr. Cybulsky. "These findings provide evidence for future treatments targeting GM-CSF to specifically prevent immune cell division that contributes to the inception of atherosclerosis." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 21, 2009 - Oral Cancer: Identifying microRNAs as Potential Biomarkers
Oral Cancer: Identifying microRNAs as Potential Biomarkers Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common types of head & neck cancers, and some of these cancers may develop from pre-malignant lesions such as oral leukoplakia— lesions which present as ‘white patches’ and are classified based on clinical and histological assessments. A recent OCI study has discovered a potential microRNA signature associated with disease progression—which may be an effective tool to help assess pre-malignant lesions at risk for developing cancer. microRNAs are small RNA molecules that regulate protein expression. As explained by study lead Dr. Suzanne Kamel-Reid, the team analyzed sequential progressive leukoplakias and same-site OSCC patient samples, collected between 1991-2005, from UHN and the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Toronto. These samples were used to identify microRNA alterations as potential biomarkers that can accurately predict which leukoplakia will most likely transform to cancer at the time of diagnosis. Study findings showed that increasing abundance of three microRNAs (miR-21, miR-181b and miR-345) were associated with progressive stages from dysplasia to invasive cancer. Specifically, the over-expression of these microRNAs may be an early event during oral cancer progression. As a direct result of these findings, future studies will aim to develop a “multi-microRNA expression analysis tool,” which, together with clinical and histological analyses, could help medical teams determine which leukoplakias have a higher risk of progressing into cancer, ultimately improving treatment and patient survival. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 21, 2009 - Nasopharyngeal Cancer: Targeting New Disease Proteins
Nasopharyngeal Cancer: Targeting New Disease Proteins An important therapeutic opportunity to improve clinical outcome for patients with nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) is on the horizon thanks to the collaborative efforts of Canadian, French and Chinese investigators. Led by UHN, the team has discovered a protein involved in NPC which may help in disease prognosis, the establishment of therapeutic targets and a better understanding of the mechanism of disease. Comments study lead Dr. Fei-Fei Liu, “The Plk1 protein is important for cell growth and is commonly expressed in many different human cancers. Specifically, we wanted to understand how and why Plk1 is important in NPC, and whether it could be a potential biomarker for this disease.” Using a series of molecular tests, the team compared Plkl levels from biopsy samples from NPC and non-NPC patients. The findings show that Plk1 is over-expressed in 70% of human NPC and is significantly associated with a higher likelihood of relapse, suggesting that Plk1 is an important mediator of NPC growth and disease progression. “When we disrupt Plk1 in cancer cells, it causes a lot of problems with cell growth eventually leading to cell death,” says Dr. Liu. “When we use this approach in combination with radiation therapy, we are able to significantly impair tumor formation and prolong survival in mice. These are very exciting findings because we now understand that not only can we use Plk1 as a potential indicator of disease progress, but we can also target it in combination with radiation therapy to stop cancer growth in its tracks.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 20, 2009 - Stroke: Protein Suppression Prevents Brain Cell Death
Stroke: Protein Suppression Prevents Brain Cell Death After cardiac arrest, the brain is deprived of oxygen, which causes brain cells to die typically within a few days. Findings published from the lab of TWRI’s Dr. Michael Tymianski are helping investigators prevent the death of brain cells. “Once brain cells die, the damage is irreversible and patients are left with lifelong disabilities,” explains Dr. Tymianski. “If we can better understand how to prevent cell death following stroke, we could help reduce or remove these disabilities.” As reported in the journal Nature Neuroscience, the team used a gene therapy approach in an animal model to specifically block the production of TRPM7—a protein responsible for causing cell death—in the hippocampus, a region of the brain responsible for high level functions such as learning, memory and emotion. By selectively blocking TRPM7 in the hippocampus (a region very sensitive to oxygen deprivation), the team was able to prevent irreversible brain cell death following a stroke. "We are excited by this very promising research as it leads us a step closer to better care for the millions of people worldwide that are affected by strokes," comments Dr. Tymianski. “These findings are not only important for stroke victims but potentially also for patients with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, in which cells die after they have been deprived of oxygen.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 20, 2009 - Neurology: Mapping Nerve Changes in the Brain
Neurology: Mapping Nerve Changes in the Brain Recent results from a team of TWRI investigators is helping to determine if the brain landscape changes following upper limb surgical repair of cut nerves. Severe nerve injuries—as a result of various accidental and work-related injuries—require surgery after they have been cut. UHN investigator Dr. Karen Davis, Dr. Dimitri Anastakis and PhD student Keri Taylor used powerful magnetic resonance imaging techniques to assess functional structural changes in the brains of 14 patients who had surgical repair of major nerves in the arm that had been completely cut. These patients had impaired function of the repaired nerves, reduced grey and white matter (major structural components of the brain), and functional changes in key areas of the brain that process information related to touch and pain. Many of these brain changes correlated with the severity of sensory loss. “We see the majority of injuries in 16-35 year olds, and many of these patients suffer years of disability and economic difficulties,” says Dr. Davis. “The more we understand the consequences of nerve injury, the more we will come to know about the mechanisms of how the brain changes to deal with this trauma and its relation to sensory function. This is important because it may help to develop new treatment strategies and intervention programs.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 19, 2009 - Atherosclerosis: Understanding the Beginnings of Disease
Atherosclerosis: Understanding the Beginnings of Disease The development of lesions that thicken artery walls due to the build-up of cells and fatty materials, such as cholesterol, is known as atherosclerosis. While the exact mechanisms behind how atherosclerotic lesions form are currently unknown, important study findings from a team of investigators at TGRI may ultimately change this. Dr. Myron Cybulsky and his team paired a specific cell labeling technique with state-of-the-art microscopy to survey how immune cells accumulate in artery walls to form the initial lesions of atherosclerosis. They found that in response to a high-fat diet, immune cells in the artery wall divide and more immune cells are recruited from the blood into the artery wall. Over time, both divided and recruited immune cells accumulate in the artery, ingest fatty materials, and thus thicken the wall. Previously, it was not appreciated that immune cells divide in early stages of atherosclerosis. “By adding an additional molecular layer of investigations to the previously mentioned imaging studies, we were able to show that the GM-CSF protein, which is normally involved in several immune-cell functions, is responsible for immune cell division in early lesions,” explains Dr. Cybulsky. “These findings provide evidence for future treatments targeting GM-CSF to specifically prevent immune cell division that contributes to the inception of atherosclerosis.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 19, 2009 - Cardiology: Learning the Benefits of Salt
Cardiology: Learning the Benefits of Salt A TGRI team led by Dr. Vivek Rao and colleagues has identified a novel pretreatment strategy in an animal model that can improve the movement of blood and preserves cardiac blood vessel function following transplantation. These findings could potentially lead to improved early and late survival after cardiac transplantation. The team pretreated donor hearts with a hypertonic saline solution (HTS)—a simple salt solution—immediately before transplantation and then maintained the organs in cooler conditions for approximately six hours before transplantation. Findings show that in comparison to hearts that were not treated with HTS, HTS-pretreated donor hearts had limited injury to cells lining the interior surface of blood vessels and enhanced recovery in ventricles after transplantation. “Our findings lead us to believe that HTS treatment may represent a simple, cost-effective method of improving clinical outcomes after cardiac transplantation,” comments Dr. Rao. “Future studies will look to investigate HTS treatment in both sexes and the effects, if any, this treatment may have on other organs.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 14, 2009 - New CEO Announced for CAMH
New CEO Announced for CAMH For Immediate Release - October 14, 2009 - (TORONTO) - The CAMH Board of Trustees is extremely pleased to announce that, effective December 1, 2009, Dr. Catherine Zahn will be the President and CEO of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Canada’s largest mental health and addiction teaching hospital. Dr. Paul Garfinkel, CAMH’s founding President and CEO, will be retiring from the position at that time. Dr. Catherine Zahn “I am delighted that the CAMH Board has chosen Catherine Zahn as the new leader of the noble enterprise that is CAMH,” said Dr. Garfinkel today. “She is an exceptionally skilled, dynamic, experienced leader with a unique capacity for bringing people together in a way that builds respect and promotes consensus. Her passion for helping people with chronic illness to live fully and with dignity epitomizes the values that drive CAMH.” Dr. Zahn, a practicing neurologist, joins CAMH from the University Health Network, where she has served as the Executive Vice President, Clinical Programs and Practice since 2005. A Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto, she is internationally recognized in the field of neurologic education and has made numerous contributions to health care in Ontario in the areas of technology assessment, chronic disease management and stroke care coordination. Catherine’s reputation in hospital integration, her leadership of the renaissance of the Toronto Western Hospital and a $100M redevelopment project there are recent accomplishments in a career that spans more than 25 years and prepares her well to join CAMH. “CAMH has an ambitious mandate: to help transform the lives of people with mental illness and addictions, through a new model of care and by breaking down stigma. The redevelopment of our 27-acre institutionalized site on Queen Street West into a mixed use urban village reflects our bold agenda,” CAMH Board Chair Dan Burns said. “Catherine brings the talent, inclusive values, solid experience and momentum required to lead CAMH in accomplishing its transformational mandate.” Known as a strategic and imaginative leader who is driven to improve clinical care and quality of life for people struggling with illness, she has a track record of recruiting and retaining excellent clinicians. Her support for research as the path to improving care for patients led her to develop the Krembil Neuroscience Centre at the Toronto Western Hospital and extend its reach throughout Ontario and around the world. “Dr. Garfinkel, the CAMH Board and leadership team have laid the foundation for accelerating change in the world of mental health and addictions,” Dr. Zahn said. “I’m energized by the richness of possibility for CAMH and for the people that it serves.” “CAMH is about a spectrum of opportunity, from brain research to city building,” she continued. “It’s about social change to ensure care and support for people living with mental illness and addictions. It’s about the skills and values of a staff who care for our clients. It’s about public education and political advocacy. It’s about searching for the causes and improving the treatments for mental illness and addictions.” “I’m thrilled by the prospect of working with the talented and committed staff and leadership of CAMH to bring the organization to a new level of distinction.” Media Contact: Michael Torres, CAMH Media Relations; 416-595-6015 or Media@camh.net … read more>>

Oct. 09, 2009 - UHN Researcher Wins CIHR Award
UHN Researcher Wins CIHR Award Announced on Oct 09, 2009 Dr. Nizar Mahomed, a TWRI Scientist in the Division of Health Care & Outcomes Research, is one of eight recipients of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) - Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) Top Canadian Achievements in Health Research awards. In this inaugural award round, Dr. Mahomed is being recognized for leading 35 hospitals that introduced new procedures for hip and knee surgery. These procedures have reduced wait times, cut rehabilitation stays and dramatically improved patient outcomes. The award recognizes Canadian researchers whose discoveries and innovations have had the biggest impact on the health of Canadians and around the world. For more information on this year's winners visit Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 08, 2009 - UHN Lupus Researcher Recognized
UHN Lupus Researcher Recognized Announced on Oct 08, 2009 TWRI's Dr. Murray Urowitz is the recipient of the 2009 Evelyn V. Hess Award from the Lupus Foundation of America. Dr. Urowitz is being recognized for his contributions to advancing our understanding of the pathophysiology, etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of lupus. The prestigious award--presented annually at the American College of Rheumatology National Scientific Meeting--honours Dr. Hess' outstanding contributions to lupus research. Congratulations Dr. Urowitz! Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 08, 2009 - U of T researchers employ microfluidics to create lab-on-a-chip
U of T researchers employ microfluidics to create lab-on-a-chip Should be useful in detecting breast cancer Thursday, October 8, 2009 Scientists at the University of Toronto have developed a new "lab-on-a-chip" technique that analyses tiny samples of blood and breast tissue to identify women at risk of breast cancer much more quickly than ever before. "The concentration of the hormone estrogen and its metabolites -- the products of metabolized estrogen -- in breast tissue are known to be significantly increased in breast cancer patients compared to healthy women, and is therefore believed to increase the risk of breast cancer. Despite this, breast estrogen levels in women at risk are not routinely measured because conventional techniques require large tissue samples obtained through invasive biopsies," says Dr. Noha Mousa, a Canadian Institute of Health Research fellow at Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute and a clinical fellow in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Toronto. In response to this challenge, an interdisciplinary group of U of T scientists have used a new technology called digital microfluidics -- where instead of moving electrons across tiny wires, minute droplets of fluid are manipulated electrically on the surface of a microchip. Because these devices can be used to integrate multiple different laboratory functions, this type of technology is sometimes called a "lab-on-a-chip". "We applied this technique for the first time to analyze hormones in tiny clinical samples -- we looked at blood, serum and breast cancer tissue," says Aaron Wheeler, director of the Wheeler Microfludics lab in the Department of Chemistry. "We developed methods to move droplets of several different kinds of reagents -- a substance consumed during a chemical reaction -- to extract hormones and purify them -- all on a device that can fit into the palm of a hand." "The new methods we've developed may someday facilitate routine screening of clinical samples for analysis of hormones. This may be useful in many applications, including screening for risk of developing breast cancer, especially in high-risk populations, and monitoring the response to antiestrogen breast cancer therapies such as aromatase inhibitors. It could also help in monitoring hormone levels in infertility treatments and in detecting illegal doping in athletes," added Wheeler. The principal investigators on the project are Aaron Wheeler, Department of Chemistry, and Robert F. Casper, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine. The lead authors of the paper are Dr. Noha Mousa, a PhD candidate in medicine, and Mais Jebrail, a PhD candidate in chemistry. The work was supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Canadian Cancer Society and will be the cover story in the inaugural issue of Science Translational Medicine. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-researchers-use-microfluidics-to-create-labonachip.html … read more>>

Oct. 07, 2009 - U of T, SickKids researchers unveil 'GPS' to navigate human genome
U of T, SickKids researchers unveil 'GPS' to navigate human genome Develop 3-D map of genome Wednesday, October 7, 2009 Scientists at the University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and an international research team have made a major scientific advancement in the study of the genome. The researchers have developed the most comprehensive map yet of genetic variation. The study is published in the Oct. 7 advance online edition of Nature. Genes are usually present in two copies in a genome; one copy is inherited from each parent. However, some regions can be duplicated or deleted in a phenomenon known as copy number variation (CNV). In this latest breakthrough, the scientists developed a 3-D map that is expected to help clinicians and researchers navigate through the genome, assisting in the rapidly-evolving field of personalized medicine. Differences in our DNA sequence contribute to our uniqueness. This variability in our genetic make-up influences most traits, including susceptibility to disease. The researchers estimate they have discovered about 80 per cent of common CNVs in worldwide populations. Thirty places in the genome that could be responsible for susceptibility to certain diseases were identified. "The scale of this current project is 100 times the scale of all others," said Professor Stephen Scherer of the Department of Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto, a co-principal investigator of the study, and director of The Centre for Applied Genomics at SickKids. "Previous work in this field would be like a paper fold-up map; this advancement is like a GPS that takes you where you need to go. It allows you to navigate the landscape of the genome, from its peaks where there is vast genetic variation, to its valleys devoid of it." In 2004, Scherer's team made headlines with Dr. Charles Lee's Harvard group, when they discovered that copy number variation was a significant form of genetic variation. In 2006, the research teams, along with scientists at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, generated the first CNV map of the genome. This revolutionized the way scientists viewed evolution and disease. In the current study, the scientists mapped 75 "jumping genes," which are dynamic regions of the genome found in more than one location. All the data are stored in the Database of Genomic Variants (known as the Toronto database) the premier worldwide source for CNV information. The researchers also identified areas referred to as "deserts" of DNA variation, where they found few or no CNVs. This suggests that genetic stability in these regions is essential to health or survival. "Variation is indeed the spice of life and we now know that nature buffers this variation by using CNVs. We are harnessing this knowledge to fight disease," said Scherer. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-sickkids-researchers-unveil-gps-to-navigate-human-genome.html … read more>>

Oct. 05, 2009 - U of T researchers discover new form of circulation in the eye
U of T researchers discover new form of circulation in the eye May assist with treating glaucoma Monday, October 5, 2009 Researchers at the University of Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre have discovered a previously unidentified form of circulation within the human eye which may provide important new insights into glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness For over a century, the eye has been considered to lack lymphatics, a circulation responsible for pumping fluid and waste out of tissues. The inability to clear that fluid from the eye is linked to glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness affecting over 66 million people worldwide. "We challenged this assumption about a lack of lymphatics and discovered specialized lymphatic channels in the human eye," said Professor Yeni Yücel, a pathologist-scientist in U of T's Faculty of Medicine and St. Michael's Hospital, and lead author of the study which appears in the current issue of Experimental Eye Research. Glaucoma is a degenerative disease believed to be caused by the death of nerve cells at the back of the eye and in vision centers of the brain. It is often associated with elevated pressure in the eye. Current treatments for glaucoma rely on eye drops or surgery to lower eye pressure either by reducing fluid formation or improving fluid drainage from the eye. "Good vision depends on the stable flow of fluid into and out of the eye. Any disturbance of this delicate fluid balance can lead to high eye pressure and irreversible glaucoma damage," said study co-author Dr. Neeru Gupta, director of the glaucoma unit and nerve protection pnit at St. Michael's Hospital and professor of ophthalmology at U of T. The lymphatic circulation, distinct from blood circulation, carries a colorless fluid called, lymph containing extra water, proteins and antigens through lymphatic vessels to lymph nodes and then to the blood stream. This circulation is critical for the drainage of the fluid from tissues, clearance of proteins and immune monitoring of the tissue. Using molecular tools and three-dimensional reconstruction, the team of researchers identified a rich network of lymphatic channels in the ciliary body of the human eye. These studies were confirmed by electron microscopy. The discovery of a lymphatic circulation in the eye challenges the idea that the eye is an immune-privileged site due to the lack of lymphatics and has major implications for understanding eye inflammations and eye tumor spread, among other eye disorders. "This 'uveolymphatic' circulation plays a role in the clearance of fluid from the eye, making it highly relevant to glaucoma. This discovery is exciting because it means we can focus on innovative treatment strategies for patients with glaucoma by specifically targeting this new circulation to lower eye pressure," said Gupta. According to the researchers, future studies will be directed at better understanding how to manipulate the lymphatic circulation in the eye. "It's clear that if we want to develop new strategies to prevent blindness, we need to challenge existing beliefs, and hopefully open the door to new treatments for eye disease," said Yücel, who also serves as director of the ophthalmic pathology laboratory in U of T's Department of Ophthalmology and research scientist at the Keenan Research Center at Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, SMH. Glaucoma is expected to affect 80 million people worldwide by 2020. Although the disease can affect anybody, those with elevated eye pressure, the elderly, blacks and persons with a family member with glaucoma are at greatest risk. Other risk factors that may be associated with glaucoma include diabetes, high blood pressure and near-sightedness.This study was a collaboration between the University of Toronto and two fully-affiliated hospitals: St. Michael's Hospital and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Other co-authors include Miles G. Johnston, a professor of laboratory medicine and pathobiology and scientist at Neuroscience Program, Sunnybrook Hospital, Tina Ly, Manoj Patel, Ersin Gümüº, Stephan A. Fraenkl and Eva Horvath from SMH, and Brian Drake, Sara Moore, Dalia Tobbia, Dianne Armstrong from Sunnybrook Hospital Research Institute. This research was supported by this work was supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (85053), Nicky And Thor Eaton Fund, The Dorothy Pitts Fund, and Henry Farrugia Fund. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-researchers-discover-new-form-of-circulation-in-the-eye.html … read more>>

Oct. 02, 2009 - Neurology: Changing Current Beliefs
Neurology: Changing Current Beliefs Announced on Oct 02, 2009 Findings published in 2003 reported a new mechanism whereby the passage of impulses from a neuron to its target could be enhanced. Study lead Dr. Elise Stanley explains, "They found that a protein called PDLIM5 served as an anchor attaching an enzyme (PKC) to calcium channels that serve as the gatekeepers for the release of neurotransmitters from nerve endings." This finding gained considerable attention when later it was reported by others that defects in PDLIM5 may play a role in several severe psychiatric 'mood' disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disease and depression. It became, therefore, critically important to fully understand the normal function of this protein. In 2007, Dr. Stanley's team set out to expand on the original discovery. However, after exhaustive preliminary studies using biochemical, morphological and physiological approaches, they were forced to conclude that the original findings were incorrect. Because of the clinical significance of this protein as a possible pathological factor in psychiatric disorders, Dr. Stanley decided that the findings, though contrary, needed to be published to ensure that the scientific record is accurate, allowing researchers to find the real function of PDLIM5. She explained, "In a way, this study serves as role model where contrary findings are of equal, and possibly greater, significance for the course of medical research than the more usual positive discoveries." The Stanley laboratory will continue to study PDLIM5 but has returned to first principles to determine the biology of this interesting protein. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 29, 2009 - U of T-led research team uncovers evolutionary origins of prion disease gen
U of T-led research team uncovers evolutionary origins of prion disease gene Tuesday, September 29, 2009 A University of Toronto-led team has uncovered the evolutionary ancestry of the prion gene, which may reveal new understandings of how the prion protein causes diseases such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), also known as "mad cow disease." Diseased prion proteins are responsible for the fatal neurodegenerative Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans and BSE, scrapie and chronic wasting disease in livestock. Overall, this work holds promise for efforts to reveal the physiological function of members of the prion protein family and may provide insights into the origins and underlying constraints of the conformational changes associated with prion diseases. The study was published Sept. 28 in the online journal PLoS ONE. Principal investigator Gerold Schmitt-Ulms of the Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology at U of T and his graduate student Sepehr Ehsani teamed up with Holger Wille and Joel Watts of the University of California, San Francisco and David Westaway of the University of Alberta for this project. "The prion protein was discovered more than 20 years ago and has been studied intensively. Nobody, however, knew its evolutionary origin and much confusion surrounds its physiological function," said Schmitt-Ulms. The team's analysis suggests that the prion gene is descended from the more ancient ZIP family of metal ion transporters. Members of the ZIP protein family are well known for their ability to transport zinc and other metals across cell membranes. The U of T laboratory initially demonstrated the physical proximity of two metal ion transporters, ZIP6 and ZIP10, to mammalian prion proteins in living cells. As with the normal cellular prion protein, ZIP6 and ZIP10 exhibit widespread expression in biological tissues with high transcript levels in the brain. Schmitt-Ulms then made the startling discovery that prion and ZIP proteins contain extensive stretches of similar amino acid sequence. The researchers next documented that the respective segments within ZIP and prion proteins are computationally predicted to acquire a highly similar three-dimensional structure. Finally, the team uncovered multiple additional commonalities between ZIP and prion proteins that led them to conclude these molecules are evolutionarily related. Most proteins do not act in isolation but partner with other proteins to exert their biological roles. The relationship between ZIP-family and prion proteins may thus provide a new angle from which to study the biology of the prion protein in health and disease. The level of shared characteristics between these protein families, in addition to the presence of prion protein genes in most chordate (i.e., backboned) species, place the split from the ZIP-like ancestor gene at the base of the chordate lineage. Although no single evidence firmly established the phylogenetic relationship between ZIP and prion genes, Schmitt-Ulms is confident that the many corroborating pieces of evidence collected and, equally important, the absence of any conflicting observations, allow no other conclusion to be drawn. This project was funded with support from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health and W. Garfield Weston Foundation. The PLoS ONE article, Evolutionary Descent of Prion Genes from the ZIP Family of Metal Ion Transporters, can be downloaded at www.plosone.org. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-tled-research-team-uncovers-evolutionary-origins-of-prion-disease-gene.html … read more>>

Sep. 28, 2009 - U of T researchers create microchip that can detect type and severity of ca
U of T researchers create microchip that can detect type and severity of cancer Samples can be analysed quickly, inexpensively Monday, September 28, 2009 U of T researchers have used nanomaterials to develop an inexpensive microchip sensitive enough to quickly determine the type and severity of a patient's cancer so that the disease can be detected earlier for more effective treatment. Their groundbreaking work, reported Sept. 27 in Nature Nanotechnology, heralds an era when sophisticated molecular diagnostics will become commonplace. "This remarkable innovation is an indication that the age of nanomedicine is dawning," said Professor David Naylor, president of the University of Toronto and a professor of medicine. "Thanks to the breadth of expertise here at U of T, cross-disciplinary collaborations of this nature make such landmark advances possible." The researchers' new device can easily sense the signature biomarkers that indicate the presence of cancer at the cellular level, even though these biomolecules - genes that indicate aggressive or benign forms of the disease and differentiate subtypes of the cancer - are generally present only at low levels in biological samples. Analysis can be completed in 30 minutes, a vast improvement over the existing diagnostic procedures that generally take days. "Today, it takes a room filled with computers to evaluate a clinically relevant sample of cancer biomarkers and the results aren't quickly available," said Shana Kelley, a professor in the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy and the Faculty of Medicine, who was a lead investigator on the project and a co-author on the publication. "Our team was able to measure biomolecules on an electronic chip the size of your fingertip and analyse the sample within half an hour. The instrumentation required for this analysis can be contained within a unit the size of a BlackBerry." Kelley, along with engineering professor Ted Sargent - a fellow lead investigator and U of T's Canada Research Chair in Nanotechnology - and an interdisciplinary team from Princess Margaret Hospital and Queen's University, found that conventional, flat metal electrical sensors were inadequate to sense cancer's particular biomarkers. Instead, they designed and fabricated a chip and decorated it with nanometre-sized wires and molecular "bait." "Uniting DNA - the molecule of life - with speedy, miniaturized electronic chips is an example of cross-disciplinary convergence," said Sargent. "By working with outstanding researchers in nanomaterials, pharmaceutical sciences, and electrical engineering, we were able to demonstrate that controlled integration of nanomaterials provides a major advantage in disease detection and analysis." The speed and accuracy provided by their device is welcome news to cancer researchers. "We rely on the measurement of biomarkers to detect cancer and to know if treatments are working," said Dr. Tom Hudson, president and scientific director of the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research. "The discovery by Dr. Kelley and her team offers the possibility of a faster, more cost-effective technology that could be used anywhere, speeding up diagnosis and helping to deliver a more targeted treatment to the patient."The team's microchip platform has been tested on prostate cancer, as described in a paper published in ACS Nano, and head and neck cancer models. It could potentially be used to diagnose and assess other cancers, as well as infectious diseases such as HIV, MRSA and H1N1 flu. "The system developed by the Kelley/Sargent team is a revolutionary technology that could allow us to track biomarkers that might have significant relevance to cancer, with a combination of speed, sensitivity, and accuracy not available with any current technology," said Dr. Fei-Fei Liu, a radiation oncologist at Princess Margaret Hospital and Head of Applied Molecular Oncology Division, Ontario Cancer Institute. "This type of approach could have a profound impact on the future management for our cancer patients." This project was funded by the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, the Ontario Genomics Institute, Genome Canada, the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, CMC Microsystems and the Canada Research Chairs program. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-researchers-create-microchip-that-can-detect-type-and-severity-of-ca.html … read more>>

Sep. 25, 2009 - U of T researcher, colleagues uncover mechanism key to spread of listeria
U of T researcher, colleagues uncover mechanism key to spread of listeria Vital for an understanding of food-borne illness Friday, September 25, 2009 University of Toronto researchers are part of an international team which has uncovered a previously unknown mechanism that plays an important role in the spread of listeria, the trigger behind the food-borne disease listeriosis, which caused a deadly outbreak in Canada in the summer of 2008. Working in collaboration with colleagues from the University of Central Florida and the University of Würzburg in Germany, U of T professor Scott Gray-Owen (Department of Molecular Genetics) and his team discovered a previously unknown way in which the disease is carried from cell to cell. Their findings are published in the current edition of Nature Cell Biology. Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium linked to food processing plants, and which can be especially debilitating or fatal for people with compromised immune systems and pregnant women. The disease moves swiftly from cell-to-cell via finger-like structures formed as the bacteria pushes out from inside one human cell to pierce into the adjacent cells. The barrier between most cells would be strong enough to repel that cell-to-cell spread, but Gray-Owen, his PhD student Tina Rajabian, and their colleagues discovered a previously unknown process that accelerates the spread of bacteria between healthy cells. A protein secreted by Listeria, called InlC, softens the junction between cells, making it easier for the adjacent cells to be breached. This effect is caused by InlC inhibiting the function of a human protein known as Tuba. While InlC is unique to Listeria, this work suggests that a similar mechanism may also occur during similar diseases such as Shigellosis. "These observations show us once again that pathogenic microbes are excellent cell biologists that have learned to disturb even the most basic cellular processes in order to facilitate the infection of their host," said Gray-Owen. "Now, if we can impede the bacteria's capacity to spread between our cells, we should be able to slow the progression of disease by this dangerous bacteria." "The discovery of this novel protein that helps breach the barrier between cells could lead to new approaches and treatments to block infections caused by Listeria," said Dr. Bhagirath Singh, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research's scientific director of the Institute of Infection and Immunity. CIHR provided funding for this research. Others members of the team involved in this research: Werner Goebel, Stefanie Müller-Altrock and Martin Heisig at the University of Würzburg in Germany, Keith Ireton and Balramakrishna Gavicherla at the University of Central Florida. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-researcher-colleagues-uncover-mechanism-key-to-spread-of-listeria.html … read more>>

Sep. 25, 2009 - Lung Cancer: Enhancing the Decision-Making Process
Lung Cancer: Enhancing the Decision-Making Process Sep 25, 2009 An OCI-led study may improve our understanding of treatment impact on quality of life for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. Currently, only two thirds of patients with resected NSCLC are referred for potentially curative adjuvant chemotherapy, and less than half go on to receive chemotherapy, with the most widely cited reason for this being patient refusal.Study lead Dr. Natasha Leighl and colleagues Drs. Frances Shepherd and Andrea Bezjak examined lung cancer patients' perceptions of value pertaining to their health outcomes during and after adjuvant chemotherapy treatment. For the first 2 or 3 years, patients may have slightly lower quality-adjusted survival in exchange for longer quality-adjusted and overall survival in future. Comments Dr. Leighl, "Simply put, if living with short-term chemotherapy-related adverse effects such as fatigue, nausea, and vomiting is worth half as much as being healthy and free from lung cancer recurrence, then adjuvant chemotherapy will pay off. Over the long term, this chemotherapy not only improves overall survival, but also improves a patient's quality of survival. These findings could help patients better understand the impact of chemotherapy on their quality of life and may serve to better inform patients during the treatment decision-making process." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 24, 2009 - $10 million announced for U of T-based research networks to speed up cancer
$10 million announced for U of T-based research networks to speed up cancer detection, improve business intelligence Focus is information management, cancer detection Thursday, September 24, 2009 By Sean Bettam U of T received funding Sept. 24 for the establishment of two new large-scale, collaborative research networks, one that will develop better information management systems for business applications and another that will use nanotechnology to develop faster ways of detecting cancer. Gary Goodyear, Canada's minister of state for science and technology, announced the creation of nine new networks as part of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council's Strategic Network Grants program. The two U of T-based networks will each receive $5 million over five years. The Network for Bioplasmonic Systems (BiopSys), led by Gilbert Walker of the Department of Chemistry, aims to speed up cancer diagnosis by incorporating an emerging technology known as plasmonics into existing procedures that use cancer markers found on the surfaces of cells. Plasmonics--a technique that produces waves of electrons when light hits a metal surface--offers significant opportunities for increasing the types of cancer markers that can be identified simultaneously. "This funding will lead to healthier lives for Canadians," says Walker. "Our first goal is to determine the presence of lung cancer at an earlier stage than is currently possible, which will permit faster screening. Our second goal is to develop similar devices for detecting leukemia that will greatly decrease the time needed for diagnosis." The network brings together experts from a wide range of disciplines and skill sets. U of T researchers will be joined by scientists from the Universities of Ottawa, Victoria, Western Ontario and Windsor. The team also includes scientists from the École Polytechnique de Montréal and Toronto's Mt. Sinai and Princess Margaret Hospitals as well as industrial partners. "The BiopSys network represents a unique partnership between universities, industry and government that will lead to revolutionary improvements in cancer diagnosis," said U of T President David Naylor. "The network brings together some of the best minds from a wide range of disciplines, including biochemistry, engineering and physics. Through its industrial partners, BiopSys will be able to transfer that knowledge into practice quickly, developing equipment of significant value to Canadians." The Business Intelligence Network (BIN), to be led by U of T computer scientist Renée Miller, will create a mechanism to enhance collaboration between the top Canadian knowledge and information management researchers and the top Canadian companies in business intelligence. "Business intelligence means using information to make informed decisions," says Miller, who is the Bell Canada Chair of Information Systems at U of T. "From a research perspective, it includes everything from strategy and policy management, to information retrieval, to data integration and data exchange. Our goal is to provide new solutions for businesses and government organizations to enable them to solve modern business problems and make decisions using integrated, trustworthy, and up-to-date data." The network itself will be interdisciplinary, bringing together computer scientists, industrial engineers, and information managers to develop new systems for stewardship, curation, and information practice. In addition to Miller and other U of T computer scientists, the BIN network includes researchers from the universities of Alberta, British Columbia, Ottawa and Waterloo, as well as Carleton and Dalhousie. Investigators are working with researchers at SAP, IBM, iAnywhere, Palomino, IC-Agency, Bell Canada, and Zerofootprint. "The Business Intelligence Network represents an exceptional partnership that will transform the existing patchwork of systems currently available in complex organizations," said U of T President David Naylor. "We are delighted that two of the nine networks created today are based at U of T," said Professor Paul Young, U of T's vice-president (research). "These grants fund large-scale multi-disciplinary projects that have the potential to bring great benefit to society in the coming years, and this is exactly the kind of work that Professors Walker and Miller are leading. We will look to them and others like them who are working closely with collaborators in academia and industry for innovations that will improve the nation's economy and the quality of life of its citizens. "We are extraordinarily grateful to NSERC and to the federal government for their investment in our researchers." http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/10-million-announced-for-u-of-tbased-research-networks-to-speed-up-cancer-d.html … read more>>

Sep. 17, 2009 - Cancer: Chemical Screen Identifies New Potential Drug Use
Cancer: Chemical Screen Identifies New Potential Drug Use A recent OCI study conducted in the lab of Drs. Aaron Schimmer and John Dick has shown that ciclopirox olamine (CPX)—a drug currently approved for the treatment of fungal infections—has previously unrecognized anti-cancer capabilities in leukemia and myeloma (cancer in the bone marrow). Led by Dr. Aaron Schimmer, the team identified CPX when screening a library for off-patent drugs with previously unrecognized anti-cancer activity.Specifically, the team wanted to study agents that inhibited the protein survivin—a regulator in cell growth and death—to determine whether it is preferentially expressed in malignant cells in comparison to non-cancerous cells. Studies of cancer cells show that CPX decreased tumour cell growth and the viability of malignant leukemia, myeloma and solid tumour cells, as well as AML cells, from patient samples without injuring non-cancer cells. Moreover, when CPX was administered in a mouse model of leukemia, CPX was found to selectively target and kill cancer cells, decreasing tumour weight and volume. "In cancer cells, the survivin protein is heightened, contributing to dangerous cell growth. We showed that CPX significantly decreases these levels and in the context of future clinical trials, following survivin proteins could be a marker of biological response to the drug,” notes Dr. Schimmer. “Future large scale studies are required to determine whether CPX’s application—as a new cancer therapeutic—are feasible. With the help of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and Kansas University, we have developed CPX for clinical trial. The first clinical trial of CPX as an anti-cancer treatment will start at the Princess Margaret Hospital at the end of this month.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 17, 2009 - Malaria: Identifying New Treatment Options
Malaria: Identifying New Treatment Options Malaria is a serious global health priority—case-fatality rates for severe malaria remain high despite potent antimalarial drugs. New treatment strategies are urgently needed. In a TGRI-led clinical trial study by researchers Drs. Kevin Kain and Conrad Liles, and colleagues in Thailand, the safety and efficacy of rosiglitazone, a drug normally used for diabetes, was assessed as a novel treatment for malaria. The team found that the 70 patients who were administered rosiglitazone twice daily for four days experienced significantly enhanced clearance of malaria parasites and had reduced inflammatory responses to infection, high levels of which are associated with adverse and fatal outcomes. “In this randomized, double-blind study, we discovered that rosiglitazone was well-tolerated by patients with malaria,” comments study lead Dr. Kain. “This is the first study to use this class of drugs as an adjunctive therapy for malaria. This is an important finding because rosiglitazone works by directly modifying the host's immune system to clear the malaria parasite, rather than by simply killing the parasite. These findings set the stage for larger clinical trials to determine if these drugs can improve survival in severe malaria.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 17, 2009 - Neurology: Learning How to Prevent Ocular Cell Death
Neurology: Learning How to Prevent Ocular Cell Death Patients with glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and other visual impairments may have a new direction of treatment in the future thanks to recent findings out of TWRI. The death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs)—or visual processing cells linking the eye to the brain—is in part responsible for these visual ailments. In a study led by TWRI investigator Dr. Lyanne Schlichter, the team discovered that two ion channels play important roles in promoting RGC death in rats. A series of experiments showed that when specific potassium channels (Kv1.1, Kv1.3)—proteins that help relay signals between brain cells—were blocked or removed from retinal ganglion cells, factors promoting cell death were reduced and RGCs remained intact. “This study provides the first evidence that targeting these Kv channels might have therapeutic potential for treating central nervous system diseases or insults that promote brain cell death,” notes Dr. Schlichter. “Because several potent blockers of one of these channels (Kv1.3) have been identified and are being tested for immune suppression, these findings on RGCs in rats might be more rapidly translated into clinical trials.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 16, 2009 - Lung Cancer: Enhancing the Decision-Making Process
Lung Cancer: Enhancing the Decision-Making Process An OCI-led study may improve our understanding of treatment impact on quality of life for patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. Currently, only two thirds of patients with resected NSCLC are referred for potentially curative adjuvant chemotherapy, and less than half go on to receive chemotherapy, with the most widely cited reason for this being patient refusal. Study lead Dr. Natasha Leighl and colleagues Drs. Frances Shepherd and Andrea Bezjak examined lung cancer patients' perceptions of value pertaining to their health outcomes during and after adjuvant chemotherapy treatment. For the first 2 or 3 years, patients may have slightly lower quality-adjusted survival in exchange for longer quality-adjusted and overall survival in future. Comments Dr. Leighl, "Simply put, if living with short-term chemotherapy-related adverse effects such as fatigue, nausea, and vomiting is worth half as much as being healthy and free from lung cancer recurrence, then adjuvant chemotherapy will pay off. Over the long term, this chemotherapy not only improves overall survival, but also improves a patient's quality of survival. These findings could help patients better understand the impact of chemotherapy on their quality of life and may serve to better inform patients during the treatment decision-making process." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 16, 2009 - Diabetes: New Protein Targets the Gut
Diabetes: New Protein Targets the Gut Currently, patients with diabetes can lower their glucose through diet, exercise, anti-diabetic tablets or insulin injections. Interestingly, recent findings by Scientist Dr. Tony Lam out of TGRI may have important implications for the development of future treatment strategies to target the gut in lowering patients’ glucose levels. Findings were highlighted as the cover story of the August issue of the journal Cell Metabolism. Using an animal model, Dr. Lam and colleagues discovered that activating receptors of the CCK protein hormone in the gut rapidly, and potently, lowered blood glucose levels by triggering a signal to the brain, and then to the liver to lower glucose or sugar production. Furthermore, in the same experiment, CCK failed to lower blood glucose in a high-fat diet. “Our findings reveal a novel role for the CCK hormone and suggest that CCK-resistance in the gut may contribute to high blood sugar levels in response to high-fat feeding,” says Dr. Lam. “Understanding how to overcome CCK-resistance in the gut so that blood sugars can be lowered could be a new therapeutic approach to diabetes and obesity.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 16, 2009 - Neurology: Changing Current Beliefs
Neurology: Changing Current Beliefs Findings published in 2003 reported a new mechanism whereby the passage of impulses from a neuron to its target could be enhanced. Study lead Dr. Elise Stanley explains, "They found that a protein called PDLIM5 served as an anchor attaching an enzyme (PKC) to calcium channels that serve as the gatekeepers for the release of neurotransmitters from nerve endings.” This finding gained considerable attention when later it was reported by others that defects in PDLIM5 may play a role in several severe psychiatric ‘mood’ disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disease and depression. It became, therefore, critically important to fully understand the normal function of this protein. In 2007, Dr. Stanley’s team set out to expand on the original discovery. However, after exhaustive preliminary studies using biochemical, morphological and physiological approaches, they were forced to conclude that the original findings were incorrect. Because of the clinical significance of this protein as a possible pathological factor in psychiatric disorders, Dr. Stanley decided that the findings, though contrary, needed to be published to ensure that the scientific record is accurate, allowing researchers to find the real function of PDLIM5. She explained, "In a way, this study serves as role model where contrary findings are of equal, and possibly greater, significance for the course of medical research than the more usual positive discoveries.” The Stanley laboratory will continue to study PDLIM5 but has returned to first principles to determine the biology of this interesting protein. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 14, 2009 - Researchers discover the first-ever link between intelligence and curiosity
Researchers discover the first-ever link between intelligence and curiosity May lead to drugs that improve learning Monday, September 14, 2009 Scientists from U of T and the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital have discovered a molecular link between intelligence and curiosity, which may lead to the development of drugs to improve learning. In a paper published Sept. 10 in the highly-respected journal Neuron, Professor John Roder of U of T's Department of Molecular Genetics, a senior investigator at the Lunenfeld, and Bechara Saab, PhD candidate at the Lunenfeld, studied the interaction of two proteins in a small region of the brain called the dentate gyrus (one of three parts of the hippocampus, which plays an important role in long-term memory and spatial navigation). "Dr. Roder and Bechara Saab have made a discovery in a region of the brain that has been under-explored in the past," said Dr. Jim Woodgett, director of the Lunenfeld. "This molecular link holds promise for future cognitive therapies." For the study, the neuronal calcium sensor-1 (NCS-1), a protein which is known to affect the memory of worms and is linked to bipolar and schizophrenia in people, was increased by one-and-a-half fold specifically in the dentate gyrus of mouse models. This modest overexpression increased the ability of brain cells to change how they communicate with each other and gave the mice superior memory in complex tasks and a significant increase in exploratory behaviour (curiosity). Because the exploratory behaviour was only altered in safe environments, Roder and Saab believe they have discovered a region of the brain that generates curiosity and a model for how brain activity leads to curiosity. The researchers also discovered that both curiosity and spatial memory were impaired when a benign drug (developed at Mount Sinai) blocked the NCS-1 protein from binding to the dopamine type-2 receptors (a major target of anti-psychotics) in the dentate gyrus. "Now that we know that some of the molecules and brain regions that control learning and memory also control curiosity, we can go back to the lab and design drugs that may improve cognition in humans - that's the potential benefit for the future," explained Saab. "Immediately, however, we can put into use the knowledge that fostering curiosity should also foster intelligence and vice versa." The study was in collaboration with other scientists from Toronto, and Switzerland. It was funded by the Canadian Institutes for Health Research. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/researchers-discover-the-firstever-link-between-intelligence-and-curiosity.html … read more>>

Sep. 14, 2009 - UHN Researcher Wins Noble
UHN Researcher Wins NobleAnnounced on Sep 14, 2009 UHN congratulates Dr. Brian Wilson for being awarded the Canadian Cancer Society's 2009 Robert L. Noble Prize. The prize is awarded annually to a Canadian investigator who has made outstanding achievements in cancer research. Dr. Wilson is being recognized for his pioneering research into various optic tools that can be used for minimally-invasive cancer treatment and early diagnosis. He has been instrumental in the development of fluorescence and endoscopic imaging techniques such those used in Barrett's esophagus and colon cancer. Most recently, he has developed optical imaging to guide surgery being evaluated in clinical trials for head and neck, prostate and brain cancers. The prize honors Dr. Noble, a leading Canadian investigator, whose 1950s research led to the discovery of the widely-used anti-cancer drug vincristine. Congratulations Dr. Wilson! Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 11, 2009 - OGI Invests in UHN-SickKids Finding
OGI Invests in UHN-SickKids Finding Announced on Sep 11, 2009 The Ontario Genomics Institute (OGI) has invested in a research project working towards improving the patient outcomes for hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplants, commonly referred to as bone marrow transplants. The team has received funding through OGI's Pre-Commercialization Business Development Fund (PBDF). Project leads Drs. John Dick (UHN), his Research Associate Jean Wang, and SickKids investigator Dr. Jayne Danska have identified variants in a protein called SIRPalpha that contributes to the interaction between transplanted blood stem cells and the recipient's bone marrow environment. The research team has begun a retrospective genetic analysis of association between SIRPalpha genetic variants and outcomes of HSC transplants in 200 pairs of donors and recipients. With a panel of new genetic tests they have developed, the team will continue to develop and validate prognostic genetic tests in HSC transplant donors and recipients and evaluate the predictive power of the detected variations. Understanding the underlying individual genetic variations, and the molecular interactions they affect, may also provide insights that may lead to more effective new anti-rejection therapies. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 04, 2009 - U of T researchers identify protein controlling brain formation
U of T researchers identify protein controlling brain formation May assist in understanding Alzheimer's disease, other neurological diseases Friday, September 4, 2009 Researchers at the University of Toronto have identified a protein which plays a key role in the development of neurons, which could enhance our understanding of how the brain works and how diseases such as Alzheimer's occur. U of T graduate student John Calarco, working in the labs of Professor Ben Blencowe (Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto) and Professor Mei Zhen (Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital), has identified a protein known as nSR100, which is only found in vertebrate species and which controls a network of "alternative splicing events" that are located in the messages of genes with critical functions in the formation of the nervous system. The findings are published in a paper in the current edition of the journal Cell. Alternative splicing events greatly expand the diversity of the genetic messages and corresponding proteins produced by genes in vertebrate cells and this process partially accounts for the evolution of remarkable complexity in organs such as the mammalian brain. Calarco, recipient of a prestigious Alexander Graham Bell Studentship, together with colleagues in the Blencowe lab, identified nSR100 using computational and experimental methods and then determined its role in the control of alternative splicing in the brain. These studies revealed that nSR100 regulates splicing events in genes that help form neurons. Collaborator and co-author Brian Ciruna and his colleagues at the the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto further demonstrated that nSR100 plays a critical role in the development of the vertebrate nervous system. "The brain is by far the most complex organ in the human body and understanding how it functions represents one of the foremost challenges of biomedical research. A large number of neurological disorders arise when the development and function of certain neurons is impaired. A major research goal is therefore to identify key genes required for the specification and function of neurons in the brain, and nSR100 represents such a gene," said Blencowe, principal investigator on the study. Calarco added that the findings present a new avenue of investigation for researchers. "The study provides intriguing insight into how the evolution of a single protein has contributed to the expansion of brain complexity in vertebrates - including humans. Further investigation into the complex network of splicing events regulated by nSR100 may uncover important aspects of how neurons normally function and also how they become impaired in neurological diseases like Alzheimer's." The authors' research is supported by funds from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Ontario Research Fund and Genome Canada through the Ontario Genomics Institute. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-researchers-identify-protein-controlling-brain-formation.html … read more>>

Sep. 04, 2009 - Unique UHN Resource Featured Nationally
Unique UHN Resource Featured Nationally Announced on Sep 04, 2009 UHN's Centre for Global eHealth Innovation is one of the featured stories in this month's innovationcanada.ca publication, the Canada Foundation for Innovation's (CFI) monthly publication highlighting uniquely Canadian research resources. Partially funded by the CFI, the Centre for Global eHealth Innovation has been operating since 2004 and contains a $6M test-bed laboratory and has become what founders believe is the largest hospital-based human factors 'usability' institution in the world. The facility has approximately 18 full-time staff and graduate students who look at how the purpose for which a machine is designed often collides with the seemingly endless way people can become confused about how to use technology properly. The idea is both to help industry make better devices and to pinpoint the best equipment for hospitals that are in the market for new machines. To read more about the facility and the exciting new pain-medication pump developed in conjunction with the British Company Smiths Medical, visit innovationcanada.ca or ehealthinnovation.org. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Aug. 28, 2009 - UHN Researcher Awarded an ERA
UHN Researcher Awarded an ERA Announced on Aug 28, 2009 Ontario's Ministry of Research and Innovation has selected TGRI's Dr. Tony Lam as a recipient in Round 5 of the Early Researcher Award competition. The award will support Dr. Lam's research program in understanding the physiology and molecular aspects of central nervous system sensing and its potential novel regulation of blood cholesterol levels. His work also aims to identify new molecular candidates and strategies targeting the brain to lower blood cholesterol levels in cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity. Congratulations Dr. Lam! Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Aug. 21, 2009 - AL-amyloidosis: Finding New Treatment Strategies
AL-amyloidosis: Finding New Treatment Strategies Announced on Aug 21, 2009 New findings from a UHN phase I study show that the once- and twice-weekly administration of the drug bortezomib is generally well-tolerated and holds promising findings in terms of disease response in patients. A rapid response to treatment is imperative in AL-amyloidosis to prevent organ failure and death. AL-amyloidosis is a protein conformational disorder related to multiple myeloma where the structure of certain proteins becomes mutated and abnormally deposited in organs and/or tissues. In collaboration with international colleagues, the OCI-led study has shown that bortezomib demonstrated a good safety profile when administered once- or twice-weekly in relapsed patients with AL. These preliminary patient findings also generally show a short time to response--approximately 1.2 and 2.3 months, respectively. "Having a rapid response, as detected through patient blood samples, is critically important for patients with AL because we need to ensure timely therapeutic benefit of treatment in terms of organ response," comments study lead Dr. Donna Reece. "We are in critical need of treating this disease sooner. The phase two study currently underway is looking to determine precisely the activity and tolerability of bortezomib in AL." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Aug. 20, 2009 - U of T wins big in Ontario's Early Research Awards competition
U of T wins big in Ontario's Early Research Awards competition 26 researchers receive funds Posted Thursday, August 20, 2009 Does being the victim of prejudice affect everyday decision-making? How can we protect the Great Lakes? Can bacteria trigger asthma? These are a few of the questions being investigated by some of U of T's most promising early-career researchers, winners of the prestigious Early Researcher Awards. Seventeen researchers from U of T received $140,000 each from the province plus $50,000 in matching funds from the university; Nine researchers from partner hospitals also won awards. The Early Researcher Award Program seeks to attract and retain the best research talent by helping promising early-career Ontario researchers build their research teams. "We are investing in the bright ideas and bright future of 338 up-and-coming researchers across Ontario," said John Milloy, minister of research and innovation. "The McGuinty government understands that when we invest in our research talent, we are investing in the future of our health care, our environment and our economy." Overall, the province funded 82 projects. U of T and partner hospitals received just over a third of the funding awarded province-wide. "In making these awards, the province is demonstrating its faith in the next generation of research talent and making a long-term investment in the prosperity of our society," said Professor Paul Young, U of T's vice-president (research). "It is from our early-career researchers that some of the most innovative ideas arise and we will look to them for years to come to help us solve society's pressing problems. I am delighted that so many of our faculty members have been honoured and extend my heartfelt congratulations." The following U of T researchers received awards:• Edgar Acosta of chemical engineering and applied chemistry;• Adam Keith Anderson of psychology; • George B. Arhonditis of physical and environmental sciences at the University of Toronto Scarborough;• Michael Brudno of computer science;• Ulrich Werner Fekl of chemical and physical sciences at the University of Toronto Mississauga;• Anthony Gramolini of physiology;• Axel Guenther of mechanical and industrial engineering;• Michael Inzlicht of psychology at the University of Toronto Scarborough;• Josee Johnston of sociology at the University of Toronto Mississauga;• Emma Master of chemical engineering and applied chemistry;• John Peter McPherson of pharmacology;• Mark Nitz of chemistry;• John Howard Peever of cell and systems biology;• Dana Jean Philpott of immunology;• Joyce Kai See Poon of electrical and computer engineering;• Datong Song of chemistry; and• Sabine Stanley of physics. The following researchers from U of T's partner hospitals were also recipients: • Gregory Czarnota of Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre;• Karen Ann Gordon of the Hospital for Sick Children;• Tony K.T. Lam of University Health Network;• Aleixo Michael Muise of the Hospital for Sick Children;• Laurence Pelletier of Mount Sinai Hospital;• John Lennard Rubinstein of the Hospital for Sick Children;• Lisa Strug of the Hospital for Sick Children;• Neil Vasdev of the Centre for Addition and Mental Health; and• George Yousef of St. Michael's Hospital … read more>>

Aug. 20, 2009 - U of T Mississauga researchers disrupt destructive duo
U of T Mississauga researchers disrupt destructive duo Discover new way to split dangerous cancer proteins, potentially improve chemotherapy Posted Thursday, August 20, 2009 A research team led by U of T Mississauga scientists has developed a new way to split up a dangerous pair of cancer proteins, a finding that could ultimately lead to chemotherapy that is more effective and has fewer side effects. Working with scientists at the University of Central Florida and the Princess Margaret Hospital, Professor Patrick Gunning of the Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences has created several molecules that inhibit Stat3, a protein that--in cancer cells--pairs with another copy of itself and goes haywire. The findings appear in the September issue of the journal ChemBioChem: A European Journal of Chemical Biology. "The molecules we have created are particularly nice because they're showing selectivity against cancer cells but not against healthy cells," said senior author Gunning. "This molecule could be used in conjunction with typical chemotherapeutics, and it could mean that drugs will have less resistance--so you could use lower dosages and cause fewer side effects." The Stat3 protein is involved in almost all cancers, and is known to contribute to the resistance of cancer cells to current drug therapies. "Most currently available therapeutics aim to induce cell death," said Gunning. "We wanted to make small molecules that could try and stop this protein." In cancerous cells, Stat3 proteins bind together to work as a lethal pair, and inhibitors work to prevent this. This type of protein-protein interaction is notoriously difficult to counter. Gunning's team targeted binding "hotspots" on a known Stat3 inhibitor called S3I-201. They chemically altered the inhibitor to produce several new variants, which they then tested on Stat3. In in vitro studies, some variants proved to be even more powerful than S3I-201, and showed activity against prostate, breast and acute myeloid leukemia cancer cell lines. "These are some of the most potent inhibitors in the literature so far for this particular protein," said Gunning. "In some cases, they were more than twice as effective as the existing inhibitor." When the team used more complex cancer cell models, they found the inhibitors survived the passage across the cell membrane and still targeted the Stat3 cancer proteins inside. Gunning and his colleagues are working to make the new inhibitors even more effective, as well as more metabolically stable, meaning that they can survive the chemical defense mechanisms within the cell. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada, the University of Toronto and the National Institutes of Health funded the study. Gunning's team is currently studying the use of their new inhibitors alongside traditional chemotherapy drugs. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-mississauga-researchers-disrupt-destructive-duo.html … read more>>

Aug. 19, 2009 - Aging seniors mentally fit: study
Aging seniors mentally fit: study Aging seniors have a longer memory than previously thought, finds a new study led by Ryerson University psychologist Dr. Lixia Yang. That old saying, "your mind as is sharp as a steel trap", seems to hold true for seniors well into their 80s, according to a new study by led by a Ryerson University researcher. In a study published in this month's issue of the Journal of Gerontology: Psychological Sciences, Dr. Lixia Yang of Ryerson University and her co-author, Ralf Krampe of the Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Germany, found that seniors were able to retain 50 per cent of concepts they learned almost a year ago. "This finding was astonishing," says Dr. Yang, who is the study's lead author and heads up the Cognitive Aging Lab at Ryerson's Department of Psychology. "We always assumed that seniors would have great difficulty in grasping new concepts and maintaining what they've learned. But our research demonstrates this is not always the case." Forty-seven seniors in their 70s and 80s completed a series of tests that measured three areas that normally decline with age: reasoning, processing speed and visual attention. They then repeated the same tests eight months later in a follow-up study. For example, to test the older adults' visual attention, one test involved finding "target" letters, like the letter "D" with dots above and below, among other letters with similar patterns as fast as possible. "This study suggests that seniors' minds are still sharp, and they can be productive members of the workplace, as long as they receive appropriate training," says Dr. Yang. The study was funded by Ryerson University and the Max-Planck Institute for Human Development in Berlin, Germany. http://www.ryerson.ca/news/media/General_Public/20090819_MR_AGING.html … read more>>

Aug. 06, 2009 - New approach targets gut hormones to lower blood sugar levels
New approach targets gut hormones to lower blood sugar levels Potential boon for coping with diabetes Thursday, August 6, 2009 A research team led by Dr. Tony Lam at the Toronto General Research Institute and the University of Toronto discovered a novel function of a hormone found in the gut that might potentially lower glucose levels in diabetes. In this ground-breaking study on a rat model, Lam's team discovered that activating receptors of the cholecystokinin (CCK) peptide hormone in the gut rapidly and potently lowers blood glucose levels by triggering a signal to the brain and then to the liver to lower glucose or sugar production. In the same experiment, CCK failed to lower blood glucose in rodents fed a high-fat diet for three days. The research is published as the cover story in the August issue of the internationally prestigious journal Cell Metabolism. The paper is entitled, "Intestinal Cholecystokinin controls Glucose Production through a Neuronal Network". "Our findings reveal a novel role for the CCK hormone and suggest that CCK-resistance in the gut may contribute to high blood sugar levels in response to high-fat feeding in rodents. Understanding how to overcome CCK-resistance in the gut so that blood sugars can be lowered could be a novel therapeutic approach to diabetes and obesity," said Lam, who holds the John Kitson McIvor (1915 - 1942) Chair in Diabetes Research at the Toronto General Research Institute and University of Toronto and is an assistant professor in the Departments of Physiology and Medicine at the University of Toronto. "This paper complements our study that was published last year in Nature indicating that in the future, we may be able to design a drug to target the gut to lower glucose levels in patients with diabetes." Lam stressed that the clinical therapeutic implications of the current findings remain largely unknown. A large amount of time will be required to determine whether enhancing CCK action in the gut of humans is effective and safe in lowering glucose levels in healthy individuals as well as patients with diabetes and obesity. Many laboratories around the world are in a race to find alternatives ways in which to lower glucose levels because of the severe complications which can result from high sugar levels. Currently, those with diabetes lower their glucose through diet, exercise, anti-diabetic tablets or insulin injections. "Diabetes is a growing epidemic in our society, and finding better ways to prevent and treat it is a research priority at the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)," noted Dr. Philip Sherman, scientific director of CIHR's Institute of Nutrition, Metabolism and Diabetes. "We are very impressed with Dr. Lam's findings. His work is an important contribution to the search for better treatments to reduce glucose levels for those living with the disease." "Dr. Lam is a rising star in the field of diabetes research. His pioneering research continues to identify the importance of the intestine and brain in regulating blood glucose. This exciting research opens up new possibilities for therapy," said Stephen Matthews, Ernest B. and Leonard B. Smith Professor and chair of the Department of Physiology at the University of Toronto. Other researchers involved in the study include Grace Cheung, Andrea Kokorovic, Carol Lam and Madhu Chari from the graduate Department of Physiology at the University of Toronto and the Toronto General Research Institute. The work was funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. Diabetes Facts: • More than two million Canadians have diabetes and that number is expected to increase to three million by 2010• A North American child born in 2000 has a one in three chance of being diagnosed with diabetes in his or her lifetime• Diabetes is a contributing factor in the deaths of approximately 41,500 Canadians each year; Canadian adults with diabetes are twice as likely to die prematurely, compared to people without diabetes• Life expectancy for people with diabetes may be shortened by 5 to 15 years• By 2010, it is estimated that diabetes will cost the Canadian healthcare system $15.6 billion a year, and that number will rise to $19.2 billion by 2020• A person with diabetes can be faced with medication and supply costs up to $15,000 a year http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/new-approach-targets-gut-hormones-to-lower-blood-sugar-levels.html … read more>>

Aug. 06, 2009 - C4 releases new template IICA
C4 releases new template IICA Aug. 6, 2009 Too many cooks won’t spoil the broth if all the cooks understand their responsibilities. That’s the message of a jointly developed Inter-Institutional Commercialization Agreement (IICA) template released today by C4, the technology transfer consortium that links universities across Southwest Ontario. The C4 IICA provides a template for splitting up the commercialization work for technologies which were created jointly by researchers at different institutions. It addresses important issues such as: who manages the commercialization activities, what kind of input or approval is to be given by the non-lead (partner) institution, and what happens if a partner fails to contribute financially to the commercialization expenses or wants to withdraw from commercialization. The C4 IICA will be used at McMaster, Guelph, Waterloo, Western, Windsor, and Wilfrid Laurier universities whenever a technology is jointly created by researchers at more than one C4 institution. Other universities are free to adopt this template agreement. The C4 IICA is based upon a collaborative approach to commercialization in which one institution takes the lead on commercialization but consults with and engages the partner institution in major decisions, such as patents and licenses. It reflects the standard approach at many C4 institutions, as well as the approach advocated by MATTO, the Massachusetts Association of Technology Transfer Offices. “The C4 IICA establishes a baseline of expectations for multi-institution commercialization cooperation,” says Elsie Quaite-Randall, executive director of the McMaster Industry Liaison Office. “It is a template that universities across Canada will find useful.” The new IICA realizes C4’s joint goals of sharing best practices between institutions and reducing the barriers for collaboration between both C4 members and other institutions. The template IICA is available on the C4 website at: www.c4ontario.ca/templates along with an explanatory guide. About C4 C4 fosters innovation in Southwest Ontario by promoting technology transfer and commercialization. Comprised of ten universities and research institutions, C4 members coordinate their resources, cooperate with governmental and industrial bodies, collaborate in multi-disciplinary research to solve real world problems, and commercialize the results of their research. C4’s members are McMaster, Guelph, Waterloo, Western, Windsor, and Wilfrid Laurier universities, and Robarts Research Institute, the Lawson Health Research Institute, Hamilton Health Sciences, and St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. This diverse group of universities and research institutions generates hundreds of new discoveries each year. It is C4’s mission to help its members transfer these discoveries to society. For additional information contact:: Sheldon SmartC4 Communications Coordinator905-525-9140 x28643smart@c4ontario.ca … read more>>

Aug. 04, 2009 - Stem cell hierarchy offers potential for isolating, growing cells
Stem cell hierarchy offers potential for isolating, growing cells Researchers determine hierarchy for mesenchymal stem cells Tuesday, August 4, 2009 Researchers at the University of Toronto Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering (IBBME) and Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH), led by U of T's Professor J.E. Davies, have made important progress in stem cell research that will allow for numerous applications of multi-faceted stem cells known as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). This research will advance the selection of specific cells to target specific diseases, ultimately enabling clinicians to "personalize" treatment for patients. The important research published today in the Public Library of Science journal, PloS-ONE [http://www.plosone.org/home.action], is entitled Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Self-Renew and Differentiate According to a Deterministic Hierarchy. The paper represents the work of Davies' fellow investigators Professors William Stanford (IBBME) and Armand Keating (director, cell therapy program, PMH) and their jointly supervised students Rahul Sarugaser and Lorraine Hanoun. The paper finally provides the experimental proof of the existence of a human MSC at the single cell level, a key step that has previously eluded the scientific community. The researchers have for the first time, defined a mesenchymal stem cell hierarchy that introduces the possibility of isolating and growing MSCs of different capacities for different clinical applications or drug discovery.This development builds on the team's previous finding that the richest source of MSCs in the body is found in umbilical cord tissue that is normally discarded at birth. "The significance of this discovery is huge," Davies said. "These cells are quite different to blood stem cells; they are thought to give rise to all the so-called connective tissues of the body including bone, cartilage, muscle, tendons and ligaments. Also, unlike blood stem cells, MSCs are considered to be immune-privileged, meaning that donor and recipient don't need to be matched." Pre-clinical work is already showing promising results for the practical applications for these stem cells. Davies and his team report implanting MSC cells derived from what is effectively medical waste, into bone marrow cavities and observing that the cells both stimulate and contribute to the formation of new bone and cartilage. In separate experiments they have also shown that the cells can accelerate skin wound healing, and also have all the immune-regulatory properties known to be important in the treatment of many diseases. Beyond its promise for healing, Dr. Davies says the discovery has other important implications for research and health care.The team is working with adult stem cells which are not subject to either the ethical or scientific concerns associated with the use of embryonic stem cells. And this pioneering work can provide cost savings because today, the close to 60 MSC trials in progress throughout the world depend upon volunteers providing some of their bone marrow to harvest a much smaller population of MSCs. With 130 million babies born every year, the umbilical cord represents a virtually inexhaustible and accessible source of cells. "From a clinical perspective," said Keating, "characterization of these MSCs at a single cell level may provide an opportunity to identify stem cells that may be particularly effective in regenerating specific tissues and organs. As a next step, once the pre-clinical studies have been completed, we can take advantage of the existing state-of-the-art good panufacturing practice-level facilities at Princess Margaret Hospital and University Health Network to manufacture clinical-grade cells for clinical use." Davies founded Tissue Regeneration Therapeutics Inc. (TRT) in 2004, and obtained a United States patent earlier this year for his first discovery. The cell harvesting technology was licensed, by TRT, to CReATe Cord Blood Bank in Toronto and now a growing number of Canadian parents are using CReATe's services to store these very special MSCs (marketed as Peristem™) at the birth of their children - along with the umbilical cord blood which is stored as a source of blood stem cells. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/stem-cell-hierarchy-offers-potential-for-isolating-growing-cells.html … read more>>

Jul. 31, 2009 - U of T researchers discover new way to fight drug-resistant fungal infectio
U of T researchers discover new way to fight drug-resistant fungal infections Compromising molecular chaperone makes fungus more vulnerable Friday, July 31, 2009 The secret to fighting often lethal drug resistant fungal infections is to knock out the bug's molecular chaperone, according to U of T researchers. An international team led by Professor Leah Cowen of the University of Toronto's Department of Molecular Genetics has discovered that the fungal pathogen Candida albicans (known as C. albicans) is able to resist drug treatment because of an associated protein - or molecular chaperone -- called heat shock protein 90, or Hsp90. In research published today in the journal PLoS Pathogens, the researchers found that compromising Hsp90 function renders the fungal-fighting drugs known as echinocandins more effective at killing C. albicans laboratory strains and clinical isolates. Enhancing the ability of existing drugs to battle often drug-resistant fungal infections greatly enhances the ability to treat the most vulnerable patients. "Our results suggest that interfering with Hsp90 function provides a powerful and much-needed strategy to render existing antifungal drugs more effective in the treatment of life-threatening fungal infections," said Cowen, who collaborated with colleagues from Duke University on the project. By impairing the function of C. albicans Hsp90 - through the use of either using potent drugs or genetic techniques -- Cowen's team discovered that this rendered the fungus much more sensitive to killing by the echinocandins. This strategy to cripple the fungus worked even against isolates that evolved resistance to echinocandins in human patients. The strategy was shown to be effective in both test tube experiments and mouse models. Cowen's research suggests that treating patients with combination therapy, including a drug that inhibits Hsp90 along with an echinocandin, could have major benefits for individuals with life-threatening fungal disease. Candida albicans can cause a wide range of disease from superficial infections such as yeast infections to life-threatening infections in the bloodstream. They can be especially lethal for people with compromised immune systems, such as those with AIDS or people undergoing treatment for cancer or organ transplantation, and they are the fourth leading cause of hospital acquired infectious diseases. C. albicans is the most frequently encountered Candida species in the clinic and is the fourth most common cause of hospital acquired infectious disease with mortality rates approaching 50 per cent. Cowen, Canada Research Chair in Microbial Genomics and Infectious Disease, has spent many years focusing on Hsp90's role in enabling the evolution of fungal drug resistance and developing strategies to harness Hsp90 as a tool to block the emergence of drug resistance and render resistant pathogens more responsive to treatment. Last March, in a paper published in the journal Current Biology, she reported that Hsp90 acted as a kind of thermostat for C. albicans; shutting down the protein's temperature-sensitivity can shut down the spread of infection. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-researchers-discover-new-way-to-fight-drugresistant-fungal-infection-1.html … read more>>

Jul. 30, 2009 - U of T first in Canada in international research rankings
U of T first in Canada in international research rankings Annual rankings consider life sciences, engineering, natural sciences, social sciences Thursday, July 30, 2009 The University of Toronto has been recognized as the top Canadian university - placing 11th overall - in a prestigious ranking that measures the performance of scientific papers for world universities. The ranking, compiled by the Higher Education Evaluation and Accreditation Council of Taiwan (HEEACT), measures the productivity, impact and excellence of published scientific papers. Five hundred universities around the world are evaluated annually. UofT finished 14th in the rankings last year and 12th in 2007, the inaugural year of HEEACT. Harvard was the top university in this year's rankings, followed by Johns Hopkins University and Stanford University. "While these rankings are relatively new, they are an important and methodologically robust measure of the quantity and quality of research performed by universities around the world," said Professor Paul Young, vice-president (research). "We're thrilled that the work of UofT's researchers has been recognized as being among the best in the world." HEEACT is the main institution authorized by the Taiwanese government to conduct university evaluation in Taiwan. Its performance measures are composed of eight indicators in three areas:• The relevance of the university's research, as measured by the number of articles that are published in peer-reviewed journals over a period of time;• The impact of a university's research, as measured by the number of citations of a published article in a specified timeframe; and• The excellence of a university's research, as measured by the number of highly-cited articles and the number of articles published in high-impact journals over a period of time. The rankings also provide a breakdown by scientific field in six categories. UofT ranked sixth in clinical medicine, 14th in life sciences, 16th in social sciences, 24th overall in agriculture, 26th in engineering and 34th in natural sciences. UofT was the top-ranked Canadian university in all of these fields except for agriculture. "The tremendous dedication of our faculty members, both on campus and at our affiliated hospitals, is reflected in these results," said Professor Catharine Whiteside, dean of the U of T Faculty of Medicine. "We are very proud of their achievements, and honored by this recognition from the global academic community." http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-first-in-canada-in-international-research-rankings.html … read more>>

Jul. 20, 2009 - Pfizer and MRI Inject Funds to UHN
Pfizer and MRI Inject Funds to UHN Announced on Jul 20, 2009 On July 16, 2009, Pfizer Inc. and the Ministry of Research and Innovation (MRI) announced a new partnership with the University Health Network (UHN) and the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) that will invest $6.9M in new funding towards finding abnormalities in the genetic makeup of colon cancer cells and developing drugs to target these aberrations. Led by Dr. Bradly Wouters, a Senior Scientist at OCI, the project could lead to new treatments for colon cancer patients that have a poor chance of recovery. In addition to developing drugs that target abnormal genes, the project will aim to develop tests to determine what kind of tumour a patient has and whether the patient is likely to benefit from a particular treatment strategy. The team is also working towards creating tests that evaluate the success of a treatment after it has been administered. Other investigators involved in the proposed project include: Drs. John Dick and Catherine O'Brien who are establishing new experimental models of cancer directly from cancer stem cells in patients; and Dr. Patricia Shaw who runs the tumour bank with tissue from patients treated at TGH. Dr. Shaw will be providing healthy or tumour tissue from colon cancer patients treated up to a decade ago. To read more visit mri.gov.on.ca … read more>>

Jul. 15, 2009 - Ontario Leading World-Class Research On New Cancer Drugs
Ontario Leading World-Class Research On New Cancer DrugsMcGuinty Government Invests In Groundbreaking R&D On Colorectal CancerNEWSOntario is joining forces with Pfizer Inc. and leading Ontario research institutions to develop a new generation of drugs to fight colorectal cancer. Pfizer Inc., the world's largest pharmaceutical company, is collaborating on a landmark $6-million oncology research project with the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research and the Ontario Cancer Institute. These research institutions are global leaders in genomics and cancer stem cell research aimed at finding a cure for cancer. The province is investing $900,000 in this initiative through its Biopharmaceutical Investment Program, part of the government's Next Generation of Jobs Fund. Investing in research and innovation has been a cornerstone of Ontario's economic planning since 2003. Ontario?s Innovation Agenda is a $3.2-billion strategy to make Ontario one of the best places in the world to turn new ideas into new businesses and jobs. QUOTES"Pfizer's decision to advance their R&D through collaboration with Ontario researchers is a testament to the strength of our talent and our global leadership in cancer research. New breakthroughs will continue to be made, and we want these people, these ideas, and these high-value jobs right here in Ontario." Minister of Research and Innovation John Milloy"Today's investment will continue to support Ontario researchers in their efforts to make new discoveries that will lead to increased quality of care for patients, and better lives for families that are dealing with cancer." Minister of Health and Long-Term Care David Caplanwww.mri.gov.on.ca … read more>>

Jun. 30, 2009 - MaRS Innovation selects Diabetic Wound Healing Technology from The Universi
MaRS Innovation selects Diabetic Wound Healing Technology from The University of Toronto as its second commercialization opportunity TORONTO (June 30, 2009) – MaRS Innovation and The University of Toronto (U of T) are pleased to announce that they have entered into an agreement to collaboratively commercialize a novel sustained release formulation of nitric oxide (NO) for applications in wound healing, including diabetic ulcers. “There are 300 million diabetics worldwide, of which some 15 per cent develop troublesome foot ulcers. This wound healing technology is extremely exciting, making it an early commercialization opportunity that MaRS Innovation has identified as being a potential win for some 45 million diabetics globally,” said Dr. Rafi Hofstein, President and CEO of MaRS Innovation. Briefly, this disruptive technology that facilitates continued therapeutic release of NO over a two week period has been developed by Dr. Ping Lee, Professor at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy and GlaxoSmithKline Chair in Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery at U of T. The role of NO in various biological applications, including wound healing, has been well documented for some time. However, widespread clinical utility of NO has been limited by the short duration of NO release and its half-life of two to four seconds. Although there have been other sustained release NO formulations in preclinical development, stability and duration of NO release have hampered further development. Preliminary data demonstrate a therapeutic benefit of this novel technology developed at U of T in diabetic ulcers with a single administration. Furthermore, NO has a dual mechanism of action – not only does it enhance wound quality and closure rates, but it can also act as an anti-infective agent, which is also an important clinical property in wound healing. “My co-inventor Dr. Yan Li and I are very enthusiastic about the development of this technology as well as working with MaRS Innovation in order to commercialize this important discovery,” said Dr. Ping Lee. “We have encouraging animal results that could translate into potentially beneficial, long-lasting effects in patients with a single application.” “This is one of many new commercilization ventures that will be initiated by MaRS Innovation, our partner in commercialization of research with 13 other academic institutions across the Greater Toronto Area,” said Paul Young, U of T’s Vice-President, Research. “We at U of T are delighted that this innovation from Dr. Lee will be taken to the marketplace to the benefit of society and the economy of Ontario and Canada.” With the launch of this second commercial opportunity, MaRS Innovation will continue to aggregate the exceptional science of its institutional members by being a one-stop commercialization centre for industry, entrepreneurs and investors. MaRS Innovation is expediting the transformation of the Toronto-based research into a powerful commercialization engine. “MaRS Innovation is deeply committed to facilitating strategic research collaborations with industry partners, strengthening the innovation capacity of Canadian industry through adoption of new technologies, and launching a new generation of robust, high-growth Canadian companies that will become global market leaders,” added Dr. Hofstein. “We look forward to working closely with all of our institutional members and to continue to jointly announce exciting commercial opportunities.” Once again, today’s announcement demonstrates that MaRS Innovation is dedicated to bringing brilliant discoveries to market by converting the outstanding science of its member institutions into outstanding economic results for Canada and the world. ABOUT MaRS INNOVATION MaRS Innovation (www.marsdd.com/mars-innovation) provides an integrated commercialization platform that harnesses the economic potential of the exceptional discovery pipeline of 14 leading Toronto academic institutions. MaRS Innovation is a non-profit organization with an independent industry-led Board of Directors, funded through the Government of Canada’s Networks of Centres of Excellence and contributions of its member institutions. For more information please contact Susan McGovern, Vice President MaRS Innovation, at smcgovern@marsinnovation.com or 647-260-7878. … read more>>

Jun. 29, 2009 - MaRS Innovation selects umbilical cord stem cell technology from Samuel Lun
MaRS Innovation selects umbilical cord stem cell technology from Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital as its first commercialization opportunity TORONTO (June 29, 2009) – MaRS Innovation and the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital are pleased to announce that they have entered into an agreement to collaboratively initiate commercialization of an umbilical cord stem cell technology for potential treatment in cardiovascular disease, diabetes and neurological disorders. “With the Toronto area identified as a world-leading cluster in stem cell research, we are extremely excited to have identified this technology as our first commercialization opportunity,” said Dr. Rafi Hofstein, President and CEO of MaRS Innovation. The technology – invented by Mount Sinai scientists Dr. Ian Rogers and Dr. Robert Casper – offers a proprietary method to create multi-potent stem cells (MPSCs) from human umbilical cord blood. With preclinical data demonstrating efficacy of MPSCs in diabetes, peripheral vascular disease (a complication of diabetes that can lead to amputation) and neurological conditions, the technology has significant potential to address multiple unmet medical needs. MaRS Innovation, along with the inventors and Mount Sinai, will initially focus on the diabetes application for the technology, as research has demonstrated that these cells uniquely secrete insulin in response to glucose, thereby mimicking the “normal” physiological state. Although there are other technologies currently being developed for diabetes treatment, very few have the potential to replace insulin injections like the MPSC technology developed at Mount Sinai. “The great advantages of stem cells from umbilical cord blood are their abundance worldwide," explained Dr. Rogers, Scientist, Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital. "Transferring this knowledge to the clinic could mean a feasible alternative to insulin injections and treatment for peripheral vascular disease." "We are delighted to be collaborating with the MaRS Innovation team on this exciting project,” said Terry Donaghue, Mount Sinai's Director, Technology Transfer & Industrial Liaison, noting that safety studies are the next step toward receiving regulatory approval for clinical studies. "With Drs. Rogers and Caspers' research, we knew there was a significant opportunity to potentially develop innovative therapies for patients. With MaRS Innovation's participation, we are optimistic we will succeed." Dr. Jim Woodgett, Director, Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital, underscored the Institute’s drive to improve patient care. "Mount Sinai is focused on translating discoveries into technologies that will improve patient care," Dr. Woodgett said. "Our partnership with MaRS Innovation on developing methods for using stem cells for diseases such as diabetes will allow us to work towards advancing care for these critical conditions." With the launch of this first exciting opportunity, MaRS Innovation has embarked on a journey to transform the Toronto-based research enterprise into a successful commercialization cluster. Furthermore, today’s announcement demonstrates that MaRS Innovation is building its own internal infrastructure to support intellectual property and market due diligence to identify the most promising commercial opportunities. MaRS Innovation is dedicated to converting the outstanding science of its member institutions into products and services, making a significant contribution to Canada’s future economic outlook and the quality of life for Canadians and others around the world. “We are deeply committed to creating a powerful engine for commercialization that brings together an experienced team to identify and validate market opportunities, develop technologies to market requirements and build the linkages that will advance the exceptional research of all of our institutional members,” added Dr. Hofstein. “We look forward to announcing additional technologies to add to our pipeline over the next several weeks.” ABOUT MaRS INNOVATION MaRS Innovation (www.marsdd.com/mars-innovation) provides an integrated commercialization platform that harnesses the economic potential of the exceptional discovery pipeline of 14 leading Toronto academic institutions. MaRS Innovation is a non-profit organization with an independent industry-led Board of Directors, funded through the Government of Canada's Networks of Centres of Excellence and contributions of its member institutions. For more information please contact Susan McGovern, Vice President MaRS Innovation, at smcgovern@marsinnovation.com or 647-260-7878. ABOUT THE SAMUEL LUNENFELD RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF MOUNT SINAI HOSPITAL The Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital (www.lunenfeld.ca), a University of Toronto affiliated research centre established in 1985, is one of the world's premier centres in biomedical research. Thirty-four principal investigators lead research in diabetes, cancer biology, epidemiology, stem cell research, women's and infants' health, neurobiology and systems biology. For more information please contact Melissa McDermott, Media Relations, at mmcdermott@mtsinai.on.ca or 416-586-4800 ext 8306. … read more>>

Jun. 19, 2009 - U of T and hospitals win $134.8 million in CFI research funding
U of T and hospitals win $134.8 million in CFI research funding Largest-ever CFI investment at U of T Friday, June 19, 2009 The research powerhouse made up of the University of Toronto and its partner hospitals got a colossal boost June 18, when the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) awarded $134.8 million to U of T and five hospitals. The partner hospitals receiving CFI investment include the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the Hospital for Sick Children, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and the University Health Network. U of T was awarded $76.6 million for16 projects. This is the largest amount of investment the CFI has ever awarded to U of T since the program was founded in 1997. "On behalf of the University of Toronto, we extend a huge thanks to the Government of Canada and the CFI. This is a marvelous day for the U of T community," said Professor Paul Young, vice-president (research). "This was a national competition based on research excellence and there is no question that this quality is at the root of the innovative projects that have been awarded. It is also important to note the diversity and societal relevance of the research. The global community will see benefits from this work for years to come." Of the total $76.6 million, $58.9 million comes through two CFI programs - the Leading Edge Fund (LEF), designed to enable institutions to build on and enhance already successful and productive initiatives supported by past CFI investment, and the New Initiatives Fund (NIF), designed to enhance Canada's capacity in promising new areas of research and technology development. In addition to the $58.9 million, the university's projects were awarded a total of $17.7 million from the Infrastructure Operating Fund (IOF). These funds support the operating costs of the new infrastructure. The Canada Foundation for Innovation is an independent corporation created by the Government of Canada to fund research infrastructure. CFI's mandate is to strengthen the capacity of Canadian universities, colleges, research hospitals and non-profit research institutions to carry out world-class research and technology development that benefits Canadians. "Through the CFI, our government is creating leading-edge facilities to attract world-class researchers," said Tony Clement, minister of industry. "Our government understands that these investments provide a significant short-term economic stimulus while making a difference in the lives of Canadians." The U of T funding is part of a $665 million investment by CFI to support 133 projects at 41 research institutions across the country. "By investing in leading-edge research infrastructure, we are ensuring that our country continues to prosper as a nation of innovation," said Dr. Eliot Phillipson, president and CEO of the CFI. "This new investment will substantially increase Canada's capacity to carry out important world-class scientific research and technology development that will benefit all Canadians." Young said the CFI investment will strengthen the ability of U of T and the partner hospitals to attract and keep world-class researchers. "We compete hard with institutions around the world for excellent talent. Receiving funding like this CFI investment is an important plus in enabling us to bring top scientists and scholars of all ages and in all disciplines to U of T and Canada." The following is a summary of the U of T projects (including Infrastructure Operating Funds generated) and project leaders who have been awarded funding: Leading Edge FundAdvanced Thermal Spray Process Diagnostics and Coating Characterization Facilities, Javad Mostaghimi, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, $2,083,550 Centre for the Neurobiology of Stress, Ian Brown, Biological Sciences, U of T Scarborough, $2,737,456 Centre for Industrial Application of Microcellular Plastics, Chul Park, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, $4,737,847 Centre for Spectroscopic Investigation of Complex Organic Molecules and Polymers (CSICOMP), Mark Lautens, Chemistry, $3,365,393 Deciphering Cellular Networks In Health and Disease Using Automated Genetics and Cell Biology, Brenda Andrews and Charlie Boone, Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Disease, $3,045,175 High Field NMR Studies of Protein Molecules in Health and Disease, Lewis Kay, Biochemistry, $5,974,596 The Canadian Aerosol Research Network (CARN): Climate, Air Quality and Health in 2020, Jonathan Abbatt, Chemistry and Gregory Evans, Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, $7,876,790 New Initiatives FundAdvanced Laboratory for Fluorinated and Other New Substances in the Environment (ALFONSE), Scott Mabury, Chemistry, $925,600 BioZone: A Bioengineering Research Facility for Energy, Environmental and Economic Sustainability, Elizabeth Edwards, Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, $3,293,750 Centre for Microsatellite Science and Technology Development and Low-Cost Space Research, Robert Zee, U of T Institute for Aerospace Studies, $5,210,657 Centre for Microfluidic Systems in Chemistry and Biology, Michael Sefton, Institute for Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering/Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, $4,874,940 Construction of a Centre for Collaborative Interactive Digital Media, Eugene Fiume, Computer Science, $3,120,000 Diet, the Digestive Tract and Disease: The 3D Centre, David Jenkins, Nutritional Sciences, $7,068,459 Inclusive Design Institute, Jutta Treviranus, Faculty of Information, $8,070,236 Molecular Imaging Facility: From Single Proteins to Atomically-Resolved Structural Dynamics, Dwayne Miller, Chemistry/Physics, $1,302,717 Ontario Initiative in Personalized Stem Cell Medicine, Janet Rossant, Molecular Genetics, $12,911,614 U of T partner hospital awards (also including IOF generated) include: Centre for Addition and Mental HealthNew Initiatives FundneuroIMAGENE, the convergence of genetics and brain imaging in mental health and addictions, Bruce Pollock, $3,649,086 Hospital for Sick ChildrenNew Initiatives FundDisruptive Technologies in Paediatric and Fetal Intervention, Peter Kim, $2,860,000 Leading Edge FundIntegrative Genomics For Health Research - Phase II, Steve Scherer, $5,559,719 Mount SinaiLeading Edge FundCMHD: An Integrated and Regional Platform for Mouse Models of Human Disease, Lee Adamson, $9,543,422 Quantitative Cell Biology and Proteomics, Tony Pawson, $15,005,136 A clinical phenotyping and computational facility for the study of complex disease, J. Knight, $575,836 Sunnybrook Health Sciences CentreLeading Edge FundAn Integrated Breast Cancer Research Biomatrix, Martin Yaffe, $958,420 University Health NetworkNew Initiatives FundRobotic Positioning for Image-guided Surgery and Radiation Therapy, David Jaffray, $7,226,574 NanoMed Fab: A nanofabrication centre for personalized medicine, Gang Zheng, $3,232,470 Leading Edge FundOntario Regional Centre for Cell and Vector Production, Armand Keating, $9,590,783 http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-and-hospitals-win-1348-million-in-cfi-research-funding.html … read more>>

Jun. 19, 2009 - Better blood sugar control for diabetics possible
Better blood sugar control for diabetics possible Blocking peptide hormone may be answer, say U of T researchers Monday, June 15, 2009 Researchers at the University of Toronto have discovered that new hope for diabetics fighting to control their blood sugar may lie in blocking a common peptide hormone. Under the leadership of Professor Mladen Vranic, a 2009 Canadian Medical Hall of Fame inductee, the team from the Faculty of Medicine's Departments of Physiology and Medicine looked at one of the biggest challenges facing people with diabetes - the control of blood sugar. The team's findings were presented June 6 at the American Diabetes Association conference in New Orleans. Low blood sugar - or hypoglycemia - is one of the most worrying consequences of diabetes and can cause irritability, loss of consciousness, seizures and in extreme cases, coma. Frequent hypoglycemic attacks can affect many brain functions including the hippocampus - the area that controls cognitive functions. Diabetes complications include blindness, terminal kidney disease, stroke and neuropathy. Although the amount of insulin administered to diabetes patients can be calculated based on blood sugar, it is not exact and the consequence of that imprecision can be hypoglycemia. The risk of hypoglycemia can be decreased by decreasing the tightness of blood glucose control. This however increases danger of complications. Thus hypoglycemia is the limiting factor for precise glucose control in diabetics. Vranic and his team focused on the complex relationship between insulin, the hormone glucagon and the hormone peptide somatostatin. In people with diabetes, researchers have noted higher levels of somatostatin, which inhibits glucagon. Using mouse models, Vranic's team introduced a peptide - developed by Dr. David Coy at Tulane University - that acts as a blocking inhibitor to somatostatin's effect on the pancreatic alpha cell, which in turn permitted glucagon and insulin to interact normally. The result is better control of blood sugar. "There is great potential for the introduction of the somatostatin antagonist as part of the diabetes control regime," Vranic said. "If people with diabetes were to take the antagonist along with their insulin treatment, the result could be much healthier patients with fewer long-term negative effects of hypoglycemia." Vranic's team, which has patented its discovery, has already discussed the possibility of developing a commercial application for the findings, once further research and testing has been completed. Vranic's team included graduate student Jessica Yue and research partners Suad Efendic (Karolinska Institute, Stockholm) and David Coy (Tulane University, New Orleans). http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/better-blood-sugar-control-for-diabetics-possible.html … read more>>

Jun. 16, 2009 - Lung Transplantation: Tackling the Topic of Rejection
Lung Transplantation: Tackling the Topic of Rejection Understanding the mechanics behind chronic rejection following a transplant is critical to developing improved outcomes in all organ transplant fields. Findings from UHN researchers Drs. Shaf Keshavjee, Mingyao Liu, Thomas Waddell and David Hwang reveal a novel finding: that lymphoid neogenesis—the growth of new lymph tissue in the lung graft itself—following transplant plays a role in the immune response after lung transplantation. Explains study lead Dr. Keshavjee, “If we can more clearly understand the underlying mechanisms of organ rejection, we can work towards lowering the incidence of this in patients who are in need of a transplant and hopefully prolong the survival of the graft.” Using a series of investigations on human and mouse lung samples, the TGRI team discovered that new tissue growth in human samples of obliterative bronchitis—a late form of transplanted lung airway obstructive lung disease—was composed of specific immune cells, providing strong evidence to suggest that lymphoid neogenesis occurs in transplanted lungs similar to that seen in rejected human kidneys, livers and hearts. Findings from the animal study were complimentary to the human tissue study. Mice receiving transplants from different breeds of mice had large numbers of new lymphoid tissues in comparison to samples transplanted between the same breed. “In addition, there appears to be a period of time where lymphocyte aggregates are reversible, which suggests a maturation process,” comments Dr. Keshavjee. “The discovery of this particular type of tissue growth is important to our understanding of organ rejection and how we can prevent it in the future.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jun. 16, 2009 - Esophageal Cancer: Identifying Markers of Disease
Esophageal Cancer: Identifying Markers of Disease Cancer researchers led by OCI’s Dr. Geoffrey Liu have discovered two commonly inherited genetic variations in patients with esophageal cancer that may be relevant to determining tailored treatments for the disease. In collaboration with Harvard School of Public Health’s Dr. David Christiani, genetic studies were conducted on samples from 371 patients with esophageal cancer on two known genetic variations—one in p53, another in a downstream gene, MDM2 (which controls cell growth). The less common genetic variation in p53 was strongly associated with an 11.8 month median survival compared with the common genetic form, that was associated with a 29.1 month median survival. The less common variant in MDM2 was strongly associated with a 10.3 month median survival, compared to patients carrying the more common form of the genetic variant (49.4 months). “This suggests that these specific genetic variations are strongly associated with a shorter overall and progression-free survival,” says Dr. Liu. “Using a simple blood test, health care teams could determine these specific genetic changes and add to the prediction of prognosis in esophageal cancer, identifying high-risk subgroups that may benefit from new therapeutic strategies.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jun. 15, 2009 - Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: Surveying Disease Genetics
Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: Surveying Disease Genetics Findings from a UHN-led study published in the New England Journal of Medicine highlight the significant association between primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC)—an autoimmune disease of the liver targeting the small bile ducts—and genetic predisposition to the disease due to genetic changes or mutations to specific genes. Led by Drs. Katherine Siminovitch and Jenny Heathcote, DNA samples from over 2,000 North American subjects, with and without PBC, were analyzed. The genomewide studies showed that changes in the HLA, IL12A and IL12RB2 genes were strongly associated with risk for this disease. Comments Dr. Siminovitch, "The proteins these genes produce are critical components of the immune response, so our findings confirm a major role for the immune system in development of this disease. Our study also identifies the IL12 pathway as a potential therapeutic target in PBC and because drugs that regulate this pathway are already available, our data pave the way for a new approach to treating PBC patients."Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jun. 15, 2009 - Ovarian Cancer: Determining Safety and Efficacy
Ovarian Cancer: Determining Safety and Efficacy According to recent findings from an PMH-led international study, when patupilone—part of the epothilone drug family responsible for stopping cell growth—is administered once every three weeks, it results in a manageable safety profile in patients with advanced ovarian, fallopian or peritoneal cancer. Led by Dr. Amit Oza, the team—which included clinical trials nurse Lisa Tinker and Drs. Helen Mackay, Joan Murphy, Barry Rosen and Stephane Laframboise—enrolled 45 women in the study. Unlike previous studies, the OCI investigation included standardized diarrhea management, a common side effect of patupilone, and allowed the dose to be increased to levels that show good antitumor activity. Other commonly reported patient side effects were fatigue and peripheral neuropathy. “Our study shows improved results from a previous study in similar patients using a weekly schedule,” notes Dr. Oza. “In addition to being well-tolerated by patients, patupilone administered on the three week schedule showed disease stabilization for 15.8 months and has prompted a phase III study.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jun. 15, 2009 - Arthritis: Determining How Gender Affects Disease
Arthritis: Determining How Gender Affects Disease Approximately 2-3% of the working-age population has reported arthritis disability and findings from a TWRI-led study are providing strong evidence that gender differences may be at the root of this statistic. “Arthritis may marginalize women and men in different ways and our findings here underscore the importance of looking more closely at differences in the employment experiences of women and men,” comments study co-author Dr. Simone Kaptein. With study lead Dr. Elizabeth Badley and colleague Dr. Monique Gignac, the team analyzed self-reported data of over 28,000 Canadians to show that women with arthritis may be more likely to leave employment, whereas men may be more likely to remain working and report negative workplace experiences. The study also shows that factors such as older age, not being married, having no children, long duration of disability, and more severe pain and disability were significantly associated with being out of the labor force. “Education was significantly associated with being in the labor force for men and women as well as the financial ramifications of retirement, losing medication coverage, and extended health care benefits,” notes Dr. Badley. “Future studies with greater knowledge of gender’s role in arthritis will be important when establishing workplace interventions.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jun. 12, 2009 - Two professors win Humboldt Research Awards
Two professors win Humboldt Research Awards Will work with researchers in Germany Friday, June 12, 2009 Germany beckons Professors Mark Lautens of chemistry and John Sipe of physics. Both men are winners of 2009 Humboldt Research Awards, bestowed by Germany's Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, an organization that promotes academic co-operation between excellent scientists and scholars from abroad and from Germany. Awardees, who must each be nominated by a German academic, receive 60,000 euros (about $93,000 Cdn) and an opportunity to spend up to a year co-operating on a long-term research project with colleagues at a research institution in Germany. The research awards are earmarked for eminent researchers at the peak of their academic careers whose fundamental discoveries, new theories or insights have had a significant impact on their own discipline and who are expected to continue producing cutting-edge achievements in future. "I'm very, very pleased," said Lautens, "and I'm very much looking forward to going to Germany. This is a great way to get our work known to German scientists all over the country, to make linkages and share results." Sipe is equally enthusiastic. "It will be a great chance to do work with a couple of groups in Germany who are doing exciting research," he said. "I'm keen to make my own contributions to these efforts." Lautens' work focuses on the discovery of new chemical reactions to make pharmaceuticals and agri-chemicals in ways that are environmentally friendly. He was nominated for the award by colleagues at three German universities: Berlin, Aachen and Göttingen. He will be visiting each of the universities for a period of weeks, fitting the trips in between teaching responsibilities and his children's school schedules. Sipe's research centres on quantum aspects of the interaction of light with matter. His nomination came from colleagues at the University of Marburg and he will be working with them and with colleagues in Karlsruhe during the next few summers. His Marburg project will centre around the optical properties of semi-conductors, while in Karlsruhe, he will be seeking to better understand bioplasmonics, the metallic structures used for optics, sensing and biosensing. Another bonus of being Humboldt awardees, said Lautens, is that he and Sipe are now part of a large network of fellows and will be eligible to accept post-doctoral fellows sponsored by the foundation. "The University of Toronto is delighted to see our superb researchers receive recognition of this nature from their peers," said Professor Paul Young, vice-president (research). "Opportunities to work abroad help spread the university's reputation for scholarship far and wide." Lautens and Sipe are among 14 U of T faculty who have received the Humboldt Research Award since 1990. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/two-professors-win-humboldt-research-awards.html … read more>>

Jun. 09, 2009 - Plant-based, low-carb diet may promote weight loss and improve cholesterol
Plant-based, low-carb diet may promote weight loss and improve cholesterol levels Monday, June 8, 2009 Overweight individuals who ate a low-calorie, low-carbohydrate diet high in plant-based proteins for four weeks lost weight and experienced improvements in blood cholesterol levels and other heart disease risk factors, according to a report in the June 8 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. A high-carbohydrate, low-fat vegetarian diet also resulted in weight loss but without the additional cardiovascular benefits. "There is a dilemma relating to the proportion and source of fat, protein and carbohydrate that constitutes the optimal weight loss and cholesterol-lowering diet," the authors write as background information in the article. Newer dietary approaches for the prevention and treatment of chronic disease emphasize increased fruit and vegetable intake and reduced meat consumption. However, low-carbohydrate diets with increased meat consumption have also been promoted for body weight reduction and the prevention and treatment of diabetes and coronary heart disease. These diets have been shown to be effective in inducing weight loss, reducing insulin resistance, lowering blood fats known as triglycerides and raising high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, or "good" cholesterol) levels, but have tended to increase low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, or "bad" cholesterol) levels. "This lack of a benefit for LDL-C control is a major disadvantage in using this dietary strategy in those already at increased risk of coronary heart disease," the authors write. David Jenkins, M.D., of St. Michael's Hospital, a professor at the University of Toronto, and colleagues tested the effects of a low-carbohydrate diet high in vegetable proteins from gluten, soy, nuts, fruits, vegetables, cereals and vegetable oils among overweight men and women with high LDL cholesterol levels. A total of 25 participants were randomly assigned to consume this diet--the "Eco-Atkins" diet--for four weeks, while an additional 25 participants ate a control diet that was high-carbohydrate, lacto-ovo vegetarian and based on low-fat dairy and whole grain products. Study food was provided to participants at 60 percent of their estimated calorie requirements. Of the 47 participants who began the study, 44 (22 in each group) completed the four-week period. Weight loss was similar--about 4 kilograms or 8.8 pounds--in both groups. However, reductions in LDL-C levels and improvements in the ratios between total cholesterol and HDL-C were greater for the low-carbohydrate diet compared with the high-carbohydrate diet. The low-carbohydrate diet also appeared to produce beneficial changes in levels and ratios of apolipoproteins, proteins that bind to fats. In addition, small but significantly greater reductions were seen in both systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) blood pressure for the low-carbohydrate vs. the high-carbohydrate group. Pending answers to important questions, including whether further reducing carbohydrate intake would produce additional benefits, "a plant-based low-carbohydrate diet high in vegetable proteins and oils may be an effective option in treating those with dyslipidemia for whom both weight loss and lower LDL-C concentrations are treatment goals," the authors conclude. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/plantbased-lowcarb-diet-may-promote-weight-loss-and-improve-cholesterol-lev.html … read more>>

Jun. 05, 2009 - Parkinson's Disease: Defining Patterns of Communication
Parkinson's Disease: Defining Patterns of CommunicationJune 05, 2009 Recent findings from a TWRI investigation have found strong evidence outlining differences in dopamine binding and release in the brain that may act as markers of vulnerability to addiction, associated with pathological gambling in a number of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). PD is characterized by reduced levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. The current treatments of choice for PD include medications that help to increase dopamine levels in the brain. The team used positron emission tomography (PET imaging) to compare dopaminergic function during gambling in patients with PD. Interestingly, patients with pathological gambling showed greater decreases in binding dopamine in specific regions of the brain than those patients that do not exhibit pathological gambling. Comments study lead Dr. Antonio Strafella, "For the first time we've been able to show that in two important regions of the brain, there is a significant difference in dopamine release for PD patients with pathological gambling. This suggests that there are abnormalities in dopamine binding and release that may be markers of disease vulnerability. With future studies, PD patients may provide a model to better understand the development of this disorder." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jun. 03, 2009 - MaRS INNOVATION APPOINTS PRESIDENT AND CEO
MaRS INNOVATION APPOINTS PRESIDENT AND CEODr. Raphael (Rafi) Hofstein brings global perspective to important leadership role at MaRS InnovationTORONTO (June 1, 2009) – The Board of Directors of MaRS Innovation is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Raphael (Rafi) Hofstein as President and CEO, effective June 8, 2009. “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Hofstein to Canada and to MaRS Innovation,” said Mary Jo Haddad, Chair, MaRS Innovation Board of Directors, and President and CEO, The Hospital for Sick Children. “His outstanding credentials and experience stood out in our extensive international search. He is exceptionally qualified to build and lead this important partnership to a recognized success.” MaRS Innovation was created as a single, market-facing commercialization storefront for Toronto’s renowned academic institutions. It aggregates the discovery pipeline in life sciences, physical sciences, information and communication technology, and cleantech from its member institutions, which include three universities, 10 academic teaching hospitals and the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research. MaRS Innovation, with support from MaRS and BioDiscovery Toronto, will advance commercialization through industry partnerships, licensing and company creation. Dr. Hofstein joins MaRS Innovation from Israel, where he has held the position of President and CEO of Hadasit Ltd., the technology transfer company of the Hadassah Medical Organization in Jerusalem, since 1999. He has also served as Chair of Hadasit BioHolding Ltd., publically traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE), since 2005. In these roles, he was responsible for the commercialization of intellectual property emerging from the Hadassah Medical Organization, clinical trials with industry partners, as well as the launch, development and strategic oversight of a series of medical devices, biomedicine and diagnostic equipment spin-off companies.“I am delighted to take on this new challenge,” said Dr. Hofstein. “MaRS Innovation is a unique global initiative, and I must commend the institutional leaders in Toronto for pulling this innovation powerhouse together to strengthen commercialization output. In my experience, good science is the single most important ingredient for success in this business. Toronto is already known as one of the strongest science cities in the world, and it continues to grow. Leading MaRS Innovation is a wonderful opportunity to do something remarkable.”From 1997 to 1999 Dr. Hofstein was President of Mindsense Biosystems Ltd., an Israeli company that develops neuropsychiatric immune assays. Previously, he was Vice President Business Development for Ecogen Inc., a subsidiary of Monsanto, in Langhorne, Pa. Dr. Hofstein is a co-founder and Board member of ILSI, the Israeli Life Science Industry Organization, and a co-founder and executive in Israel’s Tech Transfer Network (ITTN). Other Directorships held on TASE publicly traded companies include: Bioline RX (drug development); Exalenz (medical devices); and Evogene (agri-bio). He has also served as Chairman of BIOMED, Israel’s annual biomedical conference, from 2005 to 2007.“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Dr. Ilse Treurnicht, CEO MaRS Discovery District, for her important contribution to the launch of MaRS Innovation, and for serving as Interim Managing Director for the past year,” said Ms. Haddad. “The foundations are built and the organization is well-positioned for this next phase. We are pleased that Ilse will remain an active board member, providing a wealth of knowledge and experience as MaRS Innovation matures.” About MaRS InnovationMaRS Innovation (http://cts.vresp.com/c/?MaRSDiscoveryDistric/67065e73fa/e49c35fde9/99cc104c51) provides an integrated commercialization platform that harnesses the economic potential of the exceptional discovery pipeline of 14 leading Toronto academic institutions. MaRS Innovation is a non-profit organization with an independent industry-led Board of Directors, funded through the Government of Canada’s CECR Program and contributions of its member institutions, as well as support from the Province of Ontario. Contact Information:For more information or to arrange an interview with Dr. Hofstein please contact Susan McGovern,Vice President MaRS Innovation, at smcgovern@marsinnovation.com or 647-260-7878. … read more>>

May. 29, 2009 - Secret to addiction 'switch' may lie in protein
Secret to addiction 'switch' may lie in protein Friday, May 29, 2009 Researchers from the University of Toronto and Brigham Young University have discovered a naturally occurring protein may be a key culprit in drug addiction. When someone becomes dependent on drugs or alcohol, the brain's pleasure center gets hijacked, disrupting the normal functioning of its reward circuitry. Researchers investigating this addiction "switch" have now implicated the naturally occurring protein -- called BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) -- a dose of which allowed them to get rats "hooked" (assuming drug-dependent behavior) with no drugs at all. The research appears in the journal Science. "This work may reveal a mechanism that underlies drug addiction," said Hector Vargas Perez,a post-doctoral fellow with the University of Toronto's Department of MolecularGenetics. "Our work suggests that BDNF is crucial for inducing a drug dependent state, one important aspect of drug addiction." This new understanding of BDNF's role in addiction could yield new strategies for combating addiction. Earlier research has noted that chronic drug users can experience an increase in BDNF in the brain's reward circuitry, a region scientists call the ventral tegmental area. In this study, the researchers took the drugs out of the equation and directly infused extra BDNF onto this part of the brain in rats. The Toronto team noted that a single injection of BDNF made rats behave as though they were dependent on opiates (which they had never received). In collaboration with a team from Brigham Young University, the researchers determined that after the BDNF injection, specific chemicals that normally inhibit neurons in this partof the brain instead excited them, a "switch" known to occur when people become dependent on drugs. "If we can understand how the brain's circuitry changes in association with drug abuse, it could potentially suggest ways to medically counteract the effects of dependency," saidScott Steffensen, a neuroscientist at Brigham Young University and collaborator on the research. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/secret-to-addiction-switch-may-lie-in-protein.html … read more>>

May. 29, 2009 - Society Recognizes TWRI Researcher
Society Recognizes TWRI Researcher May 29, 2009 UHN congratulates Dr. Karen Davis, head of the Division of Brain, Imaging and Behaviour - Systems Neuroscience at TWRI and Associate Director of the Institute of Medical Science at the University of Toronto, on being inducted as a new member of the Johns Hopkins Society of Scholars. Dr. Davis' induction recognizes her as a former postdoctoral fellow at Johns Hopkins who has gained marked distinction in her field of research. During her three-year postdoctoral fellowship in the Pain Research Laboratory at Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Davis published 14 papers. Her research at UHN has led to achieving the first functional magnetic resonance images of brain networks underlying the human pain experience and the first images visualizing the impact of deep brain stimulation for Parkinsonian tremor. Her work has significantly increased the understanding of pain, attention and plasticity associated with neurological and psychiatric disease. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 27, 2009 - Novel cancer gene accelerates or stops tumour growth
Novel cancer gene accelerates or stops tumour growth 'Junk' protein is found to be the culpritWednesday, May 27, 2009 Researchers at the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and the University of Toronto have found a gene that plays a crucial role in the development of rhabdomyosarcoma - the most common childhood sarcoma (soft tissue cancer). The gene is called integrin-linked kinase (ILK) and is unique in that it can act as both a tumour suppressor and a tumour promoter. The study is published in the June issue of The Journal of Clinical Investigation. "Think of tumour growth as a car; most genes either act to drive the growth, or to put the brakes on it. We were surprised to find that in patients who had different types of rhabdomyosarcoma, ILK could act as either the brake pedal or the accelerator," said Dr. David Malkin, a professor in the Department of Paediatrics at the University of Toronto, pediatric oncologist and senior scientist at SickKids. Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) originates in muscle tissue and comes in two forms: embryonal RMS and alveolar RMS. Scientists have found that in patients with embryonal RMS, the ILK gene acted like the brakes and high levels of ILK suppressed tumour growth. However, in patients with alveolar RMS, ILK acted like the gas pedal, promoting the growth of tumours. "Having found that ILK could act both as a tumour suppressor and a promoter, we needed to find out what was causing the gene to change its behaviour," said Adam Durbin, lead author of the study and a University of Toronto MD/PhD student. "We determined that it must be something that ILK was communicating with." The researchers found the culprit was another protein in the cell called JNK1 (pronounced "Junk-1"), which can act to control cell growth and cell death. The scientists determined that the levels of this protein dictated whether the ILK gene acted like the gas pedal or the brakes. By understanding the mechanism behind this interaction, the scientists hope to be able to improve treatment options for RMS patients. There are about 135 new cases of RMS in Canada every year. The cancer is commonly found in two age groups; in children aged two to three and then at a later stage, in teenagers. Depending on the type and stage of RMS, the survival rate can be as low as 20 to 30 per cent. Like many cancer therapies, the current treatment for RMS is toxic and debilitating, so doctors are looking for ways to more effectively target the cancer cells while enabling healthy cells to remain intact. In their study, the scientists found the gas pedal could be destroyed by knocking out the gene using genetic manipulation in mice. The researchers say new drug treatments for RMS may not be too far off in the future. There are drugs in early clinical trials that are currently being tested for their ability to turn off or inhibit ILK in other cancers. However to turn on ILK, new drugs would need to be developed. "A significant element of this study is that ILK is not unique to RMS; this gene is found in many other types of cancers," said Malkin. "The key would be to try to find the right way to kill the gas pedal and not the brakes." The research was supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, SickKids Foundation and the University of Toronto Open Fellowship. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/novel-cancer-gene-accelerates-or-stops-tumour-growth.html … read more>>

May. 25, 2009 - Breast Cancer: Assessing Risk Early On
Breast Cancer: Assessing Risk Early On Announced on May 25, 2009 OCI investigators have conducted a unique mother-daughter study that provides further understanding of breast density, an inheritable characteristic known to be a strong risk factor for breast cancer, and suggests that risk assessment and prevention of breast cancer might start early in life. Led by Dr. Norman Boyd, the team recruited 400 pairs of mothers and daughters and used Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to examine breast tissue in daughters, aged 15-30 years, as well as a random sample of 100 of the mothers. Mothers underwent mammography and a random sample of 100 also consented to have a breast MRI. Results showed that percent breast water variation was higher in 15-19 year olds than in 20-30 year olds, and that this variation decreases with age. Height and weight, the mothers' breast tissue characteristics, and higher blood growth hormone concentrations were also linked to higher percent breast water. The team found that every additional 5 cm in the daughters' heights was associated with a 3% increase in percent breast water, which suggests a mechanism by which growth might affect the risk of cancer. "Our findings suggest that differences in breast tissue composition in early life may be a potential mechanism for this increased susceptibility to the effects of carcinogens at early ages," comments Dr. Boyd. "By identifying the environmental and genetic factors that influence breast tissue composition early in life, we may be able to develop safe and effective methods of prevention." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 21, 2009 - Ontario-on-a-Chip
Ontario-on-a-ChipMay 21, 2009 University of TorontoThe George Ignatieff Theatre and the Buttery of Trinity College St. George Campus 9:30AM to 4:30 PM Keynote: "Continuous-Flow Microsystems for Accelerating Chemical and Biological Discovery" Professor Klavs F. JensenWarren K. Lewis Professor of Chemical Engineering, Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, MIT Please join us for Ontario-on-a-Chip, the fourth event on microfluidics, microreactors and labs-on-a-chip, which facilitates contact between university researchers and the chemical, pharma, biotech, advanced materials and analytical device companies. Please register before April 30, 2009 at http://mfl.mie.utoronto.ca/Ontario-on-a-Chip/registration.php Registration Fee $75.00 CAD (includes a light lunch, and an information packet/CD describing current microfluidics research efforts pursued at the University of Toronto and other Ontario universities) For more information and agenda please visit: http://mfl.mie.utoronto.ca/Ontario-on-a-Chip/index.php … read more>>

May. 20, 2009 - Cancer: Boosting the Body’s Immune System
Cancer: Boosting the Body’s Immune System An international team of investigators led by OCI’s Drs. Pamela Ohashi and Tak Mak, have devised a method that can boost the body’s immune system and direct it to specifically target cancer cells. Currently, it is clear that a patient's immune system can destroy tumor cells however, the majority of current approaches to enhance this action are not optimal. “The promise of using the body’s own defenses to fight cancer is enormous,” comments study co-lead Dr. Mak. “The day is coming when immunotherapy may help spare cancer patients the toxic side effects of traditional therapies and greatly improve their quality of life while treating the disease.” Using an animal model, the team combined a viral vaccine with interleukin-7 (IL-7)—an important protein of the immune system necessary for proper immune development—to show that the combination was able to significantly improve the ability of key immune cells to attack tumors. Comments study lead Dr. Ohashi, “We are extremely excited because our research has revealed the unexpected ways IL-7 works to break down barriers that naturally block the immune responses to tumors. This is important because current vaccine approaches for immune therapy induce a response in just 2-5% of patients.” Future studies of IL-7 therapy will help determine the ways it can most effectively be used, including extending the length of therapy, combining IL-7 with other strategies or using alternative repeated vaccination protocols. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 20, 2009 - Nephrology: Identifying Pathways Promoting Growth in Cystic Kidney Disease
Nephrology: Identifying Pathways Promoting Growth in Cystic Kidney Disease Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common hereditary kidney disorder that accounts for 5% of end stage renal disease in Canada. Findings from a TGRI-led study associated with the gene activity of this disease is leading investigators closer to understanding where future targeted therapies for the disease may exist. “For most patients with ADPKD, end stage renal disease occurs by late middle age due to massive enlargement and distortion of normal kidney architecture,” explains study lead Dr. York Pei. “It is important to understand how these cysts grow so that we can develop novel treatments targeting this aspect of the disease that leads to kidney failure and other serious complications.” The team conducted a global analysis of gene activity on 13 renal cysts of different sizes, 5 minimally cystic tissue samples, and 3 normal renal samples and found significant activation and ‘cross-talk’ of pathways responsible for cell growth in renal cysts. Furthermore, in comparison to normal renal samples, cysts had lost proper programming of the signals that allow cells to develop into normal kidney cells. “Being able to detect which signaling pathways have increased their activity, in particular those pathways responsible for promoting cell growth and proliferation, provides us with an initial point of focus for future studies,” says Dr. Pei. “This knowledge is of critical importance as we work towards developing treatments to reduce cyst enlargement to delay progression to kidney failure.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 19, 2009 - ADHD: Identifying the Interplay of Genetics
ADHD: Identifying the Interplay of Genetics Findings from a recent UHN investigation studying children with reading disabilities (RD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have revealed the possible contribution of shared genetic factors to these disorders. Led by TWRI's Dr. Cathy Barr, the team studied over 200 families to conduct a series of genetic tests in specific regions of chromosome 6—a region known to hold a risk gene for RD—to show that one particular gene region (VMP/DCDC2) is strongly associated with ADHD and inattention and hyperactivity symptoms in children with ADHD. This suggests that, in addition to RD, this region on chromosome 6 may contribute to ADHD. “We’ve been able to narrow the search area suggesting that genes associated with ADHD might be found in this area of chromosome 6,” says Dr. Barr. “This provides us with a better understanding of the genetics behind these disorders and highlights this area as being potentially involved in inattention and hyperactivity. Future studies will be conducted to conclusively show if and how this region is responsible for these two different effects.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 18, 2009 - Parkinson’s Disease: Defining Patterns of Communication
Parkinson’s Disease: Defining Patterns of Communication Recent findings from a TWRI investigation have found strong evidence outlining differences in dopamine binding and release in the brain that may act as markers of vulnerability to addiction, associated with pathological gambling in a number of patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). PD is characterized by reduced levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. The current treatments of choice for PD include medications that help to increase dopamine levels in the brain. The team used positron emission tomography (PET imaging) to compare dopaminergic function during gambling in patients with PD. Interestingly, patients with pathological gambling showed greater decreases in binding dopamine in specific regions of the brain than those patients that do not exhibit pathological gambling. Comments study lead Dr. Antonio Strafella, “For the first time we’ve been able to show that in two important regions of the brain, there is a significant difference in dopamine release for PD patients with pathological gambling. This suggests that there are abnormalities in dopamine binding and release that may be markers of disease vulnerability. With future studies, PD patients may provide a model to better understand the development of this disorder.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 15, 2009 - Noonan Syndrome: Understanding the Mechanics of Disease
Noonan Syndrome: Understanding the Mechanics of Disease Findings from the lab of OCI Director Dr. Benjamin Neel highlight how exactly mutations participate in the development of Noonan syndrome (NS)—the most common single-gene cause of congenital heart disease. With co-author Dr. Toshiyuki Araki and colleagues, the team used a mouse model to show that cardiac defects typically found in patients with NS—due to mutations in the gene PTPN11—are the result of the incorrect activation of Shp2 in the endocardium (the lining of the interior surface of heart chambers) of the developing heart. The team was also able to show that cardiac defects in NS are a result of signaling pathways extending a specific period of development. Comments Dr. Neel, “For the first time we’ve been able to provide detailed ‘mechanics’ behind cardiac defects seen in this disorder. Mutations in same locus are the likelihood of leukemia. Future studies in this area will work towards understanding the signaling dynamics to determine the best course for therapeutic intervention.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 15, 2009 - UHN Salutes OCI Investigator
UHN Salutes OCI Investigator Announced on May 15, 2009 UHN congratulates Dr. Brenda Gallie on being recognized by the Scientific Selection Committee of the Alcon Research Institute (ARI) for her outstanding research in the study of vision. The award provides $200,000 in unrestricted grant money for Dr. Gallie to continue her research into the underlying causes of retinoblastoma. Dr. Gallie will present her research at the 2011 ARI symposium. The ARI supports global advancements in eye health by honouring those who make outstanding research contributions to the vision sciences. Congratulations Dr. Gallie! Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 15, 2009 - CFI Leaders Opportunity Fund Awardees Announced
CFI Leaders Opportunity Fund Awardees Announced Announced on May 15, 2009 The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) announced its most recent application round awardees, which includes OCI's Dr. Senthil Muthuswamy who was awarded funds from the Leaders Opportunity Fund (LOF) to help establish the Laboratory for the Study of Polarity Proteins in Breast Cancer. In total, the CFI-LOF program announced $26M in support for 117 projects across 29 Canadian research institutions. Since its creation in 1997, the CFI has committed almost $4.5B in support of more than 6,000 projects at 129 research institutions in 64 municipalities across Canada. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 14, 2009 - Malaria: Focusing Treatment Efforts During Pregnancy
Malaria: Focusing Treatment Efforts During Pregnancy TGRI researchers have discovered how a specific protein of the immune system contributes to the development of placental malaria (PM). PM—the accumulation of malaria parasites in the placenta during pregnancy—is a leading cause of maternal and infant mortality and this recent discovery will help in the development of future treatment options for patients with PM. “There is significant activity in the immune system during pregnancy and we wanted to determine what factors are involved in the development of PM as it is currently poorly understood,” comments study lead Dr. Kevin Kain. With TGRI’s Dr. W. Conrad Liles and colleagues from the US and Kenya, the team conducted a series of molecular investigations on plasma and placental blood samples taken from Kenyan women with and without PM at the time of birth. Their studies revealed that infected blood cells activated the immune protein C5 (a potent inflammatory protein and essential component of the immune response), which in turn amplified the inflammatory response to malaria—particularly with immune proteins known to be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as premature delivery and intrauterine growth restriction. “Of particular importance, C5a levels were significantly elevated in women with PM,” says Dr. Kain. “We were able to show that blocking C5a and its receptor responsible for mediating its inflammatory effects caused significant decreases in immune activity. With continued investigations, the team plans to confirm that C5a is a clinically useful biomarker of PM and that disrupting C5a and/or its receptor could be a novel therapeutic approach to improve outcomes in placental malaria.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 13, 2009 - Breast Cancer: Assessing Risk Early On
Breast Cancer: Assessing Risk Early On OCI investigators have conducted a unique mother-daughter study that provides further understanding of breast density, an inheritable characteristic known to be a strong risk factor for breast cancer, and suggests that risk assessment and prevention of breast cancer might start early in life. Led by Dr. Norman Boyd, the team recruited 400 pairs of mothers and daughters and used Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to examine breast tissue in daughters, aged 15-30 years, as well as a random sample of 100 of the mothers. Mothers underwent mammography and a random sample of 100 also consented to have a breast MRI. Results showed that percent breast water variation was higher in 15-19 year olds than in 20-30 year olds, and that this variation decreases with age. Height and weight, the mothers' breast tissue characteristics, and higher blood growth hormone concentrations were also linked to higher percent breast water. The team found that every additional 5 cm in the daughters’ heights was associated with a 3% increase in percent breast water, which suggests a mechanism by which growth might affect the risk of cancer. “Our findings suggest that differences in breast tissue composition in early life may be a potential mechanism for this increased susceptibility to the effects of carcinogens at early ages,” comments Dr. Boyd. “By identifying the environmental and genetic factors that influence breast tissue composition early in life, we may be able to develop safe and effective methods of prevention.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

May. 13, 2009 - OCI Director Honoured with Prestigious Award
OCI Director Honoured with Prestigious Award Announced on May 13, 2009 UHN congratulates Dr. Benjamin Neel on receiving one of two prestigious Premier's Summit Awards in Medical Research presented at a gala event held in MaRS Tuesday May 12, 2009. Dr. Neel is recognized for his significant and distinguished ongoing contributions to the field of cell signaling in several human diseases including developmental defects and cancer. The province will provide Dr. Neel with $2.5M in funding over the next five years towards expanding a research program to determine the detailed pathophysiology underlying developmental disorders associated with several types of childhood and adult leukemias. In addition, the award will also support studies to elucidate the mechanisms underlying HER2+ breast tumor development. To read more about the Summit event and biographies on Dr. Neel and other awardees, visit mri.gov.on.ca. … read more>>

May. 12, 2009 - Premier’s Innovation Awards Support New Ideas, Knowledge Economy
Premier’s Innovation Awards Support New Ideas, Knowledge Economy A one-shot vaccine that protects children from five diseases and a new type of hearing aid are among thirteen outstanding scientific achievements recognized today at the 2009 Premier's Innovation Awards. Ontario celebrated the ideas, imagination and innovation of its top researchers and entrepreneurs, awarding a total of $12.95 million to the science and business winners. The award recipients are working to conquer disease, find solutions to climate change and develop advanced digital technologies. Their research and development is helping to create Ontario's next generation of jobs. Award recipients included: * Best Young Innovator: Dr. Bin Ma, whose company Bioinformatics Solutions Inc. provides accurate and rapid protein identification which helps accelerate drug development to treat a host of diseases. * Innovator of the Year: Dr. Navid Zargari, who was instrumental in developing the world's first transformer-free medium voltage motor drive, a technology that is helping make manufacturing and industry more energy-efficient, reliable and competitive. * Start-up Company with the Best Innovation: Cinevate, a Thunder Bay company whose camera adapter equipment is revolutionizing filmmaking and capturing the attention of the film and video industry worldwide. Awards were given in three categories: Catalyst, Discovery and Summit. http://www.premier.gov.on.ca/news/event.php?ItemID=6031&Lang=EN … read more>>

May. 04, 2009 - McGuinty Government Launches New Fund For Genomics Research
McGuinty Government Launches New Fund For Genomics Research Ontario is launching a new fund to attract and retain world-leading genomics researchers in the province. The $100-million Global Leadership Round in Genomics and Life Sciences will support globally-significant, collaborative research projects that are headquartered in Ontario. This fund will create high-skilled jobs in research and technology, and brings Ontario’s commitment to funding science since 2003 to a historic high of $1.4 billion. Focused on genomics and gene-related research, the new fund will aim to accelerate new knowledge that could lead to cures, better treatment and prevention for diseases like cancer, diabetes and heart disease. It will also support innovation in agriculture, environmental protection and clean technologies. Investing in research and innovation has been a cornerstone of Ontario’s economic planning since 2003 and Ontario’s Innovation Agenda. The agenda is a $3.2 billion plan to make Ontario one of the best places in the world to turn world-class research into world-class jobs. QUOTES “At a time when economic challenges are tempting some governments to scale back on their innovation spending, Ontario is more committed than ever to its vision of global leadership through collaboration. The McGuinty government is committed to growing an innovation economy that supports the groundbreaking work of our leading scientists and their teams. New discoveries and breakthroughs will continue to be made – and we want those people, those ideas, and http://www.mri.gov.on.ca/english/news/GL2050409.asp … read more>>

May. 01, 2009 - Three professors, five alumni named to Top 40 Under 40
Three professors, five alumni named to Top 40 Under 40 Friday, May 1, 2009 Three of U of T's faculty members and five alumni have been named to Canada's Top 40 under 40 list for 2009, an honour that recognizes a success achieved at a youthful age. Professors Ray Jayawardhana of astronomy and astrophysics, Michael Taylor of surgery and laboratory medicine and pathobiology and Shana Kelley of the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy and director of the division of biomolecular sciences have all been awarded the honour. Canada's Top 40 Under 40 is a prestigious national program founded and managed by the Caldwell Partners to celebrate leaders of today and tomorrow and to honour Canadians below the age of 40 who have achieved a significant level of success. The program is designed to promote mentorship and professional development by introducing these leaders to the established business community and by promoting them as role models for young Canadians. In choosing the recipients, the board at Caldwell Partners considers the nominees' vision and leadership; innovation and achievement; impact; community involvement and contribution; and growth/development strategy. "Congratulations to Professors Jayawardhana, Taylor and Kelley. This is a tremendous achievement for them and a great honour for the University of Toronto to have such strong representation in this prestigious program," said Professor Paul Young, vice- president (research). "If we are going to make an impact on global society, it is crucial that we do everything we can to support the next generations of researchers in all disciplines. These honours prove we have an extremely talented team of young scholars here at U of T." Award winners are generally nominated by their colleagues or their institutions. Taylor said he was extremely humbled by his nomination from his peers at the Hospital for Sick Children. "I was honoured that people at SickKids nominated me because there are so many talented people here," said Taylor. "SickKids is full of overachievers and everyone should be a Top 40 under 40." Jayawardhana, who is also a Canada Research Chair in observational astrophysics, sees the award as another opportunity to showcase the importance of science. "I wasn't even sure that I wanted to be a scientist when I was younger but I did know that I if I was to become one, I wanted to be a publicly engaged scientist," he said. "As a scientist winning this award, it is another opportunity to showcase scientists and science as an integral part of Canada's cultural landscape and its economic endeavours." Professor Shana Kelley is new to Canada and said this recognition is especially meaningful to her. "I think it's quite important that those of us who pursue careers in academics make sure that we maximize the tangible positive impact we make -- whether it be through our research or teaching or whatever we pursue as faculty," said Kelley. "This award recognizes impact and thus I think it encourages us to be all we can be." Five U of T alumni were also recognized on this year's Top 40 list. They are Michael Cole, executive vice-president and chief information officer, Bell Canada; Dr. Sam Daniel, a surgeon and director, pediatric otolaryngology, head and neck surgery at the Montreal Children's Hospital; Jerome Dwight, president and chief executive officer, BNY Trust Canada, the Bank of New York Mellon ; Wade Felesky, managing director of GMP Securities L.P. and Cameron Piron, president and co-founder of Sentinelle Medical Inc. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/campus-news/three-professors-five-alumni-named-to-top-40-under-40.html … read more>>

Apr. 28, 2009 - BioDiscovery Toronto Technology Showcase 2009
BioDiscovery Toronto Technology Showcase April 28th, 2009 1:00-5:00 pm MaRS Convergence Centre Toronto, Ontario SAVE THE DATE You are invited to an early-stage showcase of healthcare technologies from the research institutions, hospitals and universities of the Toronto region. A list of presenters will be available April 1st. Please RSVP to Stephanie De Grandis e-mail: sdegrandis@biodiscovery.ca or tel: 416-673-8476 by April 5th. Great science and great investment potential. Link … read more>>

Apr. 27, 2009 - Scientists discover how to improve immune response to cancer
Scientists discover how to improve immune response to cancer Research led by U of T medical faculty Monday, April 27, 2009 A team of scientists at the Campbell Family Institute for Breast Cancer Research (CFIBCR) at Princess Margaret Hospital and international collaborators have discovered how to trigger an improved immune response to cancer that could be included in new clinical trials that use a patient's own cells to destroy tumours. The findings, published online today in Nature Medicine (DOI: 10.1038/nm.1953), demonstrate the tantalizing potential of immunotherapy in cancer treatment, said principal investigator Pamela Ohashi, co-director of CFIBCR and a University of Toronto professor of medical biophysics in the Department of Medical Biophysics and Immunology.In the lab study, the scientists combined interleukin-7 (IL-7) - a key component of the immune system - with a viral vaccine to improve the ability of the cells of the immune system to attack tumours. The result was clear: the combination boosted immunity to tumours. "We are extremely excited because our research has revealed the unexpected ways IL-7 works to break down barriers that naturally block the immune response to tumours. This is important because current vaccine approaches for immune therapy induce a response in just one to three per cent of patients," said Ohashi, a senior scientist in signalling biology who holds a Canada Research Chair in autoimmunity and tumour immunity. University Professor Tak Mak, co-author and CFIBCR director, said, "The promise of using the body's own defences to fight cancer is enormous. The day is coming when immunotherapy may help spare cancer patients the toxic side-effects of traditional therapies and greatly improve their quality of life while treating the disease. This is why we are planning to expand our immunotherapy research program at PMH." Mak is also a professor in U of T's Department of Medical Biophysics and Immunology.This research was also financially supported by grants and fellowships from the Canadian Institute for Health Research, the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, the Terry Fox Foundation, the National Cancer Institute of Canada, the Boninchi Foundation (Geneva) and the Irvington Institute with the Cancer Research Institute (New York). http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/scientists-discover-how-to-improve-immune-response-to-cancer.html … read more>>

Apr. 08, 2009 - Breast Cancer: Revisiting Cancer Diagnoses with Biopsy
Breast Cancer: Revisiting Cancer Diagnoses with Biopsy OCI researchers have conducted the first prospective study comparing original breast cancer tumors with a biopsy of newly suspected metastasized tumors that may change the way oncologists currently treat patients—using only data collected from original tumors. Dr. Mark Clemons and colleagues evaluated 29 biopsies of recurrent tumors taken from patients whose breast cancer had spread to bone, skin, lymph nodes, lung or liver. Biopsy results were then compared to original cancer results by evaluating estrogen, progesterone, and Her2 receptors. Oncologists use these receptors to decide which drug treatments to give patients. While 15 patients had unchanged receptors, 10 patients had results that had changed, three patients now had benign disease, and one patient had a different type of cancer that required an entirely different treatment. “Cancers may change over time and not respond to treatment that was appropriate for the original cancer,” says study lead Dr. Mark Clemons. “These early findings are leading us in a new direction as we understand more about why some women don’t respond to treatment so we can change our treatment strategy appropriately.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Apr. 08, 2009 - VENTURE CAPITAL FUND INVESTS IN JOBS OF THE FUTURE
VENTURE CAPITAL FUND INVESTS IN JOBS OF THE FUTURE McGuinty Government Welcomes Second Ontario-Based Commitment For Immediate ReleaseApril 8, 2009 NEWSThe Ontario Venture Capital Fund is committing $20 million in EdgeStone Capital Venture Fund III (EdgeStone) to help support innovative, high-growth businesses, including high-potential companies in Ontario. EdgeStone is an Ontario-based venture capital firm investing in early and growth stage Canadian information technology companies. EdgeStone?s track record of successful investments includes Ontario-based companies such as Workbrain, SlipStream Data, Protus IP Solutions, and Varicent. The $205-million Ontario Venture Capital Fund, managed by TD Capital Private Equity Investors, is a joint initiative between the provincial government and leading institutional investors to invest primarily in Ontario-based and Ontario-focused venture capital and growth equity funds. Today?s announcement by TD Capital Private Equity Investors comes on the heels of TD announcing its first Ontario-based commitment of up to $15 million to Georgian Partners on March 24, 2009. It also follows a recent announcement by Ontario to create a new $250-million Emerging Technologies Fund, to help drive private sector investment into new Ontario technology start-ups. QUOTES?In these tough economic times it is important to give Ontario?s cutting-edge companies the support they need to grow and succeed right here at home. By supporting innovative Ontario ideas and high-growth technology companies today, we are helping to create the products, services and jobs that will drive our economy in the future.? - John Wilkinson, Minister of Research and Innovation.?Through the Ontario Venture Capital Fund, we are helping to ensure innovative companies continue to seize global market opportunities. The McGuinty government's 2009 Budget, proposes to enhance these opportunities through its comprehensive tax reform, which will cut the marginal effective tax rate on new business investment in half, making Ontario one of the most competitive jurisdictions in the industrialized world for new investment.? - Dwight Duncan, Minister of Finance. http://www.mri.gov.on.ca/french/news/OVCF040809.asp … read more>>

Apr. 07, 2009 - Parkinson’s Disease: Examining the Motor Cortex
Parkinson’s Disease: Examining the Motor Cortex Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a movement disorder caused by the loss of brain cells responsible for producing dopamine, a key chemical in relaying signals from one cell to another. A TWRI group has examined the consequences of preventing these specific cells from communicating to one another and how this might play a role in PD. “We wanted to look at the motor cortex—the region of the brain responsible for directly controlling muscles that produce movement—and what happens to communications between brain cells in PD,” explains study lead Dr. Robert Chen. Working with 11 patients ‘on’ and ‘off’ of PD medications, the team stimulated the motor cortex during short (SICI) or long (LICI) intervals of 2, 100 and 150 milliseconds. The team found that while there was no difference in SICI for groups, LICI and more importantly, the influence of LICI on SICI were significantly reduced in PD. “These findings showed that in PD, a form of communication between brain cells known as presynaptic inhibition is disturbed,” says Dr. Chen. “This could ultimately be contributing to the movement symptoms, such as bradykinesia and akinesia, which are common in PD. This doesn’t appear to be corrected by current medications and as such, future studies will investigate how we can alleviate this.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Apr. 07, 2009 - Neurology: A Different Way of Seeing the Brain
Neurology: A Different Way of Seeing the Brain A new way to visualize blood vessels in the brain may be possible—thanks to findings from a TWRI team led by Dr. David Mikulis—that overcomes current restrictions. Conventional imaging of abnormal brain blood vessels requires the injection of contrast agents into the blood carried by arteries supplying the brain. The images show defects in the column of blood caused by abnormalities that actually lie within the blood vessel wall. The problem is that the defects in the blood column can look similar even when caused by very different blood vessel wall diseases. The new advance uses a more powerful magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system that is able to image the blood vessel wall directly thus enabling a more accurate diagnosis of the disease that is affecting the blood vessel. TWRI investigators, including researchers from Johns Hopkins Hospital, recruited 37 patients with various blood vessel diseases that were affecting the brain's blood vessels, including atherosclerosis, dissecting (tears in blood vessel walls) aneurysms, and inflammation using a powerful form of MRI, specifically 3T MRI, demonstrating higher-definition and improved image clarity of blood vessels in the brain. “The 3T MRI technology was quite useful in providing clear imaging of blood vessel wall architecture that was specific to the disease,” says Dr. Mikulis. “The ability to make a more accurate diagnosis will allow physicians to initiate more timely and definitive treatment preventing brain injury from deficits in blood flow (stroke). Future studies will examine a broader range of patients to determine how sensitive, specific and predictive a tool like 3T MRI can be, in terms of the best treatment strategy for each patient.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Apr. 06, 2009 - Malaria: Discovering Diagnostic Tools
Malaria: Discovering Diagnostic Tools Currently, there are few tools that can determine which individuals infected with Plasmodium falciparum—the parasite responsible for causing malaria in humans—will progress to severe and potentially fatal complications such as cerebral malaria (CM). However, in a world first finding, TGRI investigators have discovered promising biomarkers for CM that may one day serve as a prognostic test for severe malaria, according to study lead Dr. Kevin Kain. Dr. Kain's team collaborated with colleagues from Thailand and Uganda to analyze blood samples, from malaria-infected and non-infected Thai adults as well as Ugandan children, for changes in proteins involved in maintaining vascular integrity and the blood-brain-barrier including angiopoietin-1 (ANG-1) and angiopoietin-2 (ANG-2). Findings show that ANG-1 and the ratio of ANG-2:ANG-1 had a sensitivity and specificity of 100% for distinguishing CM in Thai adults and 70% and 75% respectively for Ugandan children. Also, low levels of the ANG-1 protein were able to predict subsequent mortality in children. “Specifically, we found that ANG-1 and ANG-2 proteins may play a role in the pathogenesis of CM and are accurate biomarkers to discriminate cerebral malaria from uncomplicated malaria,” says Dr. Kain. “Of particular interest, they also help to predict survival in African children and may assist health care providers in triaging critically ill patients and in individualizing treatments in the future.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Apr. 06, 2009 - Liver Cancer: A New Treatment Direction
Liver Cancer: A New Treatment Direction For patients with liver metastases that are inoperable and who are not candidates for standard treatment therapies, findings from an UHN-led phase I study are 'casting light' towards a new radiotherapy treatment option that is individualized and does not cause radiation-induced liver disease. To determine the safety and efficacy of individualized six-fraction stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)—which involves delivering high doses of radiation precisely to tumor sites within the body—OCI's Dr. Laura Dawson and colleagues Drs. James Brierley, Rebecca Wong, Bernard Cummings, Jolie Ringash and Jennifer Knox recruited 68 patients with inoperable colorectal (40 patients), breast (12 patients), or other (16 patients) liver metastases. Among patients who had undergone SBRT, the one-year survival rate was 60% and overall, SBRT was well tolerated by patients with no radiation liver toxicity observed. "What we've seen here is that with this group of patients with focal liver metastases unsuitable for standard therapies, SBRT was safe, and it led to sustained local control for the majority of patients treated" says Dr. Dawson. "Taking this into phase II and III studies will help us determine the benefits of SBRT, which may be greatest when delivered earlier in a patient's treatment course." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Apr. 01, 2009 - SickKids’ Corporate Ventures office licenses peptide discovered by Research
SickKids’ Corporate Ventures office licenses peptide discovered by Research Institute scientists to treat chronic pain A new pharmaceutical technology licensed in February by the Corporate Ventures office at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) may help treat neuropathic and nflammatory pain in children and adults, but without the serious side effects that can accompany currently available treatments. The peptide was discovered in the laboratory of Dr. Michael Salter, Senior Scientist at the SickKids Research Institute and the Director of the University of Toronto Centre for the Study of Pain and reported in a paper in the journal Nature Medicine in December 2008. The peptide was patented by the Corporate Ventures office, and was licensed on February 24 to NoNO Inc, a Toronto biotech firm founded by Dr. Michael Salter and Dr. Michael Tymianski, Senior Scientist at the University Health Network. Corporate Ventures considers NoNO Inc. to be an excellent licensee for this technology, as the company has extensive experience in the development of peptide therapeutics similar to that developed by Dr. Salter's laboratory. “A major roadblock in chronic pain research has been translating knowledge of biological mechanisms into therapeutic approaches that are both effective and safe” said Salter. “We were able to move past that roadblock with our discovery of a novel peptide based therapeutic approach, which may lead to a new and previously unsuspected way of treating chronic pain.” Hypersensitivity in chronic pain depends on the activation of receptors in the brain and spinal cord known as NMDA receptors, which are regulated by a protein called Src. Current treatments for pain block the activation of NMDA receptors, however in doing so certain physiological functions of the receptors are also blocked, leading to unwanted side effects. The peptide discovered by Salter prevents the Src protein from interacting with NMDA receptors, which helps mitigate pain hypersensitivity without the unwanted side effects. This discovery may have relevance in the management of chronic pain. Acute pain, like stubbing your toe or cutting your finger, only lasts for a short time, but chronic pain can be much more serious and last for decades. Adults and children suffering from nerve injury, cancer, HIV-AIDS, stroke and some neuroimmune disorders can become hypersensitive to pain stimuli, and even stimuli that are usually not painful, such as a light touch or slight cooling. The researchers at SickKids have conducted studies using different rat and mouse models, which showed that the peptide lowered pain hypersensitivity without affecting other brain functions. Additional research and development will be needed prior to a drug based on this peptide technology entering clinical trials.Find this story on the web at: http://www.sickkids.ca/corporateventures/News/index.html … read more>>

Apr. 01, 2009 - SickKids Corporate Ventures office licenses new compound that may treat lys
SickKids Corporate Ventures office licenses new compound that may treat lysosomal storage and neurological disorders The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) has licensed its rights to a new compound to Neuraltus Pharmaceuticals in order to further research and development, and move the technology into clinical trials. The compound, which was developed in collaboration with Neuraltus, may be useful in treating certain lysosomal storage disorders and neurological disorders. Neuraltus approached Dr. Clifford Lingwood, Senior Scientist in the Molecular Structure & Function program at the SickKids Research Institute when they noticed synergies between work they were doing and a publication he had authored. After a year and a half of collaboration between the two groups, enough data was generated to patent the pharmaceutical technology and focus on the development of a novel compound for the treatment of lysosomal storage disorders. “In a healthy human, cell structures called lysosomes process and breakdown unwanted substances inside the cell,” said Lingwood. “Individuals suffering from a lysosomal storage disorder have a build up of the unwanted substances within the cells.” This can lead to any of approximately 40 known lysosomal storage disorders with a wide variety of symptoms, including developmental delays, muscular disorders, seizures, deafness and blindness, and can end in death. Neuraltus and Lingwood will continue to perform research in hopes of developing the compound as a treatment for a number of these disorders. The compound, collaboratively developed by Lingwood and Neuraltus, affects lysosomal storage disorders by reducing the rate at which a molecule called a glycolipid is created within the body. Overproduction of glycolipids can interfere with how the cells grow and mature, how the cells adhere to each other and their ability to prevent tumours from forming. This can lead to serious disorders like Tay-Sachs, Gaucher's, and Fabry's diseases. After an initial patent application had been filed, the compound was also found to have an additional affect on neurodegenerative disorders, and researchers at the Parkinson’s Institute in Sunnyvale, CA joined the collaboration. Neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease damage or destroy cells in the brain and spinal cord, and can impede movement and interfere with memory and brain function. A patent application has also been filed for this new use for the compound. The license for SickKids’s patent rights to the technology was developed and negotiated by SickKids’ Corporate Ventures office and is effective as of February 1. SickKids will continue to collaborate with Neuraltus and the Parkinson’s Institute to further develop the compound. Find this story on the web at: http://www.sickkids.ca/corporateventures/News/index.html … read more>>

Mar. 27, 2009 - Bioengineered protein yield new way to tackle cancer
Bioengineered protein yield new way to tackle cancer Friday, March 27, 2009 U of T researchers have discovered that re-engineering a protein that helps prevent the growth and spread of tumours has created a potentially powerful therapy for people with many different types of cancer. In a study published in the first issue of EMBO Molecular Medicine, Professor Michael Ohh of laboratory medicine and pathobiology describes how his research team modified the tumour inhibiting protein known as von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) and demonstrated that it could suppress tumour growth in mice. When solid tumours grow they often have relatively poor and disorganised blood supplies. As a result, various regions including the centre of the tumour have low levels of oxygen and are said to be hypoxic. Cells in these hypoxic areas produce hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) that helps them carry on growing. Consequently HIF is associated with aggressiveness in some of the most common types of cancer, including prostate, breast, colon and lung cancer. Under normal conditions VHL degrades HIF but VHL is deactivated when oxygen levels are low. So, in hypoxic regions of a tumour, just where VHL is needed to inhibit cancer, it is ineffective. The researchers, therefore, created a new version of VHL that does not stop working when oxygen is scarce. Introducing this newly engineered version of VHL into mice that had kidney tumours dramatically reduced levels of HIF, caused tumours to regress and limited the formation of new blood vessels within the tumors. "We have genetically removed the Achilles' heel of VHL to permit unrestricted destruction of HIF," said Ohh, Canada Research Chair in molecular oncology. "The level of HIF is usually very high under conditions of low oxygen but when we put in our bioengineered VHL its levels go right down to a level that would be comparable to that in normal oxygen levels." Their findings could have implications for any type of cancer in whichHIF plays a role. "We used kidney cancer as a model because it is one of the most resistant tumours to conventional radiation and chemotherapy, but our findings provide a novel concept that could potentially serve as a foundation for smarter anti-cancer strategy for a wide variety of cancers," Ohh said. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/bioengineered-protein-yield-new-way-to-tackle-cancer.html … read more>>

Mar. 26, 2009 - Barriers to Success in Negotiation: CEO Entrepreneur Quarterly Series
Barriers to Success in Negotiation: CEO Entrepreneur Quarterly Series Sessions on negotiation skills seldom focus on understanding how differently the various parties may perceive a given situation or how those different perceptions may undermine the possibility of a successful negotiation. Even seasoned negotiators can find themselves frustrated by seemingly intractable disputes. All too often, complex psychological issues lurk beneath the surface, unspoken and unrecognized, protracting disputes and turning opportunities for successful resolution into conflicts that leave everyone worse off. This seminar, led by an experienced professor and practitioner/negotiator, will help you recognize some of these problems and develop creative solutions to move from deadlock to deal. The presentation will be followed by a panel of seasoned medical technology entrepreneurs who will share their experience overcoming barriers in negotiation. Presenter: Casey Chisick, Partner, Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP Casey holds an LL.M. from Harvard Law School with a special focus on negotiation and dispute resolution. Before joining Cassels Brock, where he specializes in copyright and entertainment law, he taught negotiation and ADR at the University of Manitoba Moderator: Stuart English, Partner, Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP. Stuart is a partner in the Business Law Group where he practices corporate and commercial law, and has been involved in a number of significant business acquisitions/divestitures, venture capital financings and joint ventures, and has particular expertise in transactions involving pharmaceutical and other healthcare companies. Panelist: Paul Chipperton is responsible for all aspects of the corporate and operational advancement of Profound Medical. He has significant successful international biotech “start-up” and New Product Development (NPD) management experience, and has previously led Business Development & Marketing with a number of companies, most notably in the successful commercial launch of three diverse brands; Affinity™ Drug Discovery instrumentation (CRi & Beckman-Coulter), [FP]2Fluo-peptide™ reagents (PerkinElmer) , and Oragene™ diagnostics (DNAGenotek). He is also a co-founder and Board member of InDanio Bioscience Inc, and a guest lecturer at both McGill University and University of Toronto on managing innovation and entrepreneurship in the Life Science sector. Panelist: Geneviève Lavertu is the Director, Legal Affairs and Business Development, Medtronic of Canada, a leading medical technology company. She is involved in the distribution and marketing of medical devices in Canada, and provides legal advice on related regulatory aspects under the Food and Drugs Act, field actions and product liability litigation. Panelist: Peter Suma is responsible for the development and execution of the firm’s business strategy including the company’s day to day operations. Prior to joining PCAS in 2006, he was Vice-President, Investments, at GrowthWorks Capital Ltd., a leading venture capital fund. As principal at Start Seed Capital he invested in early stage technology companies. Peter founded, built and sold SRG Software Inc., a software development firm and repeat winner of Profit Magazine’s ‘Top 100 Fastest Growing Companies’ award and Microsoft’s Partner of the Year award. Peter has an hon. B.Sc. degree from the University of Toronto, an MBA from the University of Chicago, L.L.M. in Securities Law from Osgoode Law School, and a PDAM from the Schulich School of Business. Peter is a certified corporate director with an ICD.D from the Rotman School of Management. AGENDABreakfast 9:00 AM - 9:30 AMWelcome 9:30 AM - 9:35 AMPresentation: Barriers to Success in Negotiation, C. Chisick 9:35 AM – 10:35 AMBreak 10:35 AM – 10:50 AMPanel Discussion 10:50 - 12:00 PM For more information please contact the HTX Office 416-673-8463 To register please visit: http://ceobootcamp.eventbrite.com/ Location: MaRS Collaboration Centre (CR-2) Event Dates: Thursday, March 26, 2009 URL: ceobootcamp.eventbrite.com/ … read more>>

Mar. 24, 2009 - VENTURE CAPITAL FUND INVESTS IN JOBS OF THE FUTURE
VENTURE CAPITAL FUND INVESTS IN JOBS OF THE FUTURE McGuinty Government Welcomes First Ontario-Based Commitment March 24, 2009 The Ontario Venture Capital Fund is committing up to $15 million in Georgian Partners ?Growth Fund I? to help support innovative, high-growth businesses, including high-potential companies in Ontario. Georgian Partners is an Ontario-based venture capital firm investing in companies in the information technology, information aggregation, and enterprise software sectors. The $205-million Ontario Venture Capital Fund, managed by TD Capital Private Equity Investors, is a joint initiative between the provincial government and leading institutional investors to invest primarily in Ontario-based and Ontario-focused venture capital and growth equity funds. Today?s announcement by TD Capital Private Equity Investors comes on the heels of Ontario announcing a new $250-million Emerging Technologies Fund, to help drive private sector investment into new Ontario technology start-ups. The co-investment fund, which is expected to be up and running by July 2009, would match small to medium private sector investments and receive an interest in companies it supports. http://www.mri.gov.on.ca/english/default.asp … read more>>

Mar. 23, 2009 - St. Michael's Hospital appoints Professor Robert Howard as president and CE
St. Michael's Hospital appoints Professor Robert Howard as president and CEO Monday, March 23, 2009 The board of St. Michael's Hospital announced March 20 the appointment of Professor Robert Howard of U of T's Department of Medicine as president and chief executive officer, effective April 27. Jeff Lozon will become transition adviser to the president until June 1. "Bob Howard is a gifted individual with deep roots in the organization, expert medical knowledge and exceptional leadership qualities," said Bill Downe, chair of St. Michael's Hospital Board of Directors and president and CEO of BMO Financial Group. "Dr. Howard begins his mandate leading an organization that is a beacon of good management and a model for our healthcare system. St. Michael's is on firm financial footing and has become a growing global player in research, innovative care and education." On behalf of the board, Downe offered his thanks to the board's search committee for recommending this appointment. Led by Bill Morneau, the board's search committee worked to identify candidates from across Canada who could maintain the hospital's core values and long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion. "I have been part of St. Michael's Hospital for more than 25 years and I have had the privilege to work with outstanding people within our hospital and from our community and academic partners," Howard said. "These individuals exemplify compassionate caring and a devotion to excellence that have become the hallmarks of St. Michael's. Together, with the guidance of our board members, the continuing support of our government and through the help of our donors, I am looking forward to what we will accomplish in the future. I am deeply honoured to step into this role and thank my mentor Jeff Lozon, the man who helped put our hospital on such a good track." Howard has held the position of executive vice-president of programs and chief medical officer since 1998. During this time, he has served as acting CEO on numerous occasions and also sees patients one day a week. Prior to his appointment in 1998, Howard was medical director of the heart program (1994-1998) and acting chief for the cardiology division (1993-1994). He joined St. Michael's Hospital in 1982 as a staff cardiologist with a special interest in echocardiography. He is an associate professor in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto. In 1989, he became director of the University of Toronto training program in cardiology. Howard has an undergraduate degree in industrial engineering from the University of Toronto (1972) and a medical degree from McMaster University (1975). He also holds an executive MBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business (2003). A search for a candidate to assume Howard's current responsibilities will begin immediately. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/st-michaels-hospital-appoints-professor-robert-howard-as-president-and-ceo.html … read more>>

Mar. 18, 2009 - Ontario launches $200M technology fund
Ontario launches $200M technology fund THE CANADIAN PRESS … read more>>

Mar. 18, 2009 - McGuinty Government Creates New Fund To Support Green Tech Companies and Jo
McGuinty Government Creates New Fund To Support Green Tech Companies and Jobs Ontario is creating a new fund to drive start-up investment in green technology companies and other high-tech businesses. The move is a response to the challenges emerging technology companies are experiencing in raising venture capital due to tightening credit markets. The long-term goal of the fund is to create a dynamic, vibrant venture capital community that will help Ontario companies grow and compete globally. Starting in July, the Emerging Technologies Fund would invest $250 million dollars over five years together with qualified venture capital funds and private sector investors. The fund would match small to medium private sector investments and receive an interest in companies it supports. http://www.mri.gov.on.ca/english/news/ETF031809.asp … read more>>

Mar. 17, 2009 - Major Depressive Disorder: Tracking Multiple Drug Treatments
Major Depressive Disorder: Tracking Multiple Drug Treatments TWRI researchers have determined that young children and adolescents with major depressive disorders (MDD) are receiving broad regimens of pharmacotherapy that are within FDA approved and unapproved standards for the management of mood syndromes. Comments study lead Dr. Roger McIntyre, “In the past twenty years, the occurrence of mood and behavioral disorders among children and adolescents has increased significantly and we wanted to understand what was being done to help treat this group of patients.” Examining pharmacotherapy patterns for 1544 children and adolescents diagnosed with MDD, the TWRI team has shown that polypharmacy has significantly increased over the years, especially between 1997 and 2003. In particular, individuals with ADHD, bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders, especially in males and non-Africans, were more likely to be prescribed multiple medications. “What we’ve found here is that the pattern of antipsychotic drug use in children and adolescents has increased and changed in accordance with FDA warnings and regulations,” says Dr. McIntyre. “Future studies should continue to evaluate the therapeutic benefits of drug combinations for mood and related disorders and in particular, the efficacy and safety of newer medications in these patients." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Mar. 17, 2009 - HIV: Evaluating the Value of New Treatment Options
HIV: Evaluating the Value of New Treatment Options TGRI’s Dr. Sharon Walmsley and an international team of colleagues have confirmed that use of the boosted protease inhibitor saquinavir/ritonavir (SQV/r) in HIV-1-infected patients is as effective as existing treatments when used as part of combination HIV therapy. Currently, the most effective initial treatment for patients with the HIV-1 virus is a combination of drugs aimed at preventing the virus from multiplying rapidly. “This Gemini study, unlike other research initiatives, followed patients, who had never been treated for HIV-1 infection, for 48-weeks to determine if SQV/r is as effective as the currently widely prescribed lopinavir/rionavir (LPV/r) treatment strategy when used in combination with Truvada,” notes Dr. Walmsley. In fact, the study findings show that SQV/r was as effective as LPV/r in keeping HIV-1 virus counts low in patients. Surprisingly, unlike LPV/r, patients prescribed SQV/r treatment experienced smaller increases in triglyceride levels, an important finding as HIV-1 patients are at an increased chance of experiencing metabolic syndrome, and in some cases, coronary artery disease. “This is very important in terms of future treatment strategies because SQV/r works as effectively as current practices but without as severe risks to the heart,” says Dr. Walmsley. “These findings add additional support to current treatment guidelines and reinforce their use as a viable component for first-line therapy of HIV-1-infected patients." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Mar. 16, 2009 - Cancer: Deciphering Important Gene Patterns
Cancer: Deciphering Important Gene Patterns Tumor stage is currently the best predictor of patient survival in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but new evidence from a team of OCI investigators may provide important prognostic information—independent of tumor stage—that may affect treatment strategies. Explains Dr. Igor Jurisica, “Many useful molecular markers have been identified for several cancers, including NSCLC. However, for many technical reasons these small predictive sets of genes usually have poor overlap across studies. Our recent study provides another explanation for this lack of overlap, and is the first comprehensive study of predictive signatures.” Dr. Jurisica and his graduate student Paul Boutros, along with team members Drs. Frances Shepherd, Ming-Sound Tsao and Linda Penn (Paul's co-supervisor), developed an algorithm and used it to analyze data from four previous lung cancer studies—a follow-up study to one led by Dr. Tsao (2007). The team found that the algorithm could accurately predict patient survival outcomes, a result validated in four external datasets, and the largest pooled data set from eight separate NSCLC studies comprising 589 patient samples. “Based on our calculations, we've found another half million different six-gene signatures—gene activity between six genes—that could predict NSCLC,” comments study author Paul Boutros. “The six-gene signatures we've found have a potential to help us understand the biology of NSCLC, and provide alternative markers for identifying patients with poor prognosis." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Mar. 16, 2009 - Lung Cancer: A New Three-Sided Approach to Therapy
Lung Cancer: A New Three-Sided Approach to Therapy Findings from a recent UHN investigation are shedding light on a new course of therapy that may be available to patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM)—cancer of the lining of the chest or abdomen—to overcome current challenges relating to diagnosis and treatment. Led by TGRI’s Dr. Marc de Perrot and colleagues, 60 patients with MPM from Princess Margaret Hospital were administered a ‘three-sided’ treatment approach which consisted of cisplatin-based chemotherapy, surgery and high-dose radiation. Results showed that half of the patients were able to successfully complete the study and that up to a 5-year disease-free survival rate was observed in 53% of patients. “These results are very encouraging for patients with tumors that can be surgically removed and can complete each stage of treatment,” comments Dr. de Perrot. “For some patients, disease stage remains a strong predictor of outcome and additional clinical studies are needed to help manage treatment strategy for these patients.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Mar. 16, 2009 - Neurology: New Tools Investigating Development
Neurology: New Tools Investigating Development TWRI researcher Dr. Philippe Monnier and colleagues have developed a tool that will allow investigators to study protein function in a new manner. It has also enabled the discovery of the importance of two protein regions involved in axon (brain cell connector) outgrowth in the pathway responsible for vision. Using a variety of molecular tools, the team engineered several specific antibodies (scFvs) and found that they were capable of maintaining regions of proteins in an orientation that allowed the proteins to be studied over a two week period. The antibodies also specifically recognized the target protein RGMa, the protein responsible for regulating proper axon pathfinding during development. Says Dr. Monnier, “scFvs antibodies are capable of holding regions of proteins ‘motionless’, making possible new functional studies. This new tool has been significant to our work because we have been able to provide the first evidence that both regions of the RGMa protein are important for properly directing cells involved in vision during the development of the central nervous system in the chick. These new tools will be used in future studies to help us better understand vision and where treatment strategies for vision loss can be used one day.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Mar. 12, 2009 - U of T scientists selectively erase fear memories and gain insight into how
U of T scientists selectively erase fear memories and gain insight into how the memory worksThursday, March 12, 2009 It may sound like something out of a science fiction movie - but bad memories can be erased in mice and this finding sheds light into how memories are normally encoded and stored in the brain. In a study published in the March 13 issue of the journal Science, researchers at the University of Toronto and The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) have established a link between specific neurons and a given memory. The human brain contains over 100 billion neurons (there are over 100 million in the mouse brain), yet memories are thought to be stored in only small groups of them. Identifying the precise neurons encoding a given memory has been a longstanding challenge. In the past, scientists had deleted an entire brain region in mice to try and erase a memory in the hopes of finding out about how memories are normally stored, but in this study led by Sheena Josselyn, assistant professor of physiology, Canada Research Chair in Molecular and Cellular Cognition and a SickKids scientist, researchers took a more targeted approach and removed only the small portion of neurons thought to be involved in a specific memory. "Though previous studies have provided important evidence suggesting that specific neurons are involved in a memory, we believe this paper is the first to establish causal links," said Josselyn. In a previous paper, the research team showed evidence suggesting that in mice, fear memories are stored in specific neurons within a brain structure known as the lateral amygdala (LA) that have a high amount of a specific protein (CREB). This means that CREB levels helps dictate which neurons are involved in storing a memory. In the latest study, the scientists went on to destroy only these LA neurons with high levels of CREB and found that mice no longer remembered the fearful event. More importantly, they illustrated that random removal of a similar number of LA neurons does not impact the fear memory. These findings are the first to definitively show which specific set of neurons store a memory. "Our experiences, both good and bad, teach us things," said Josselyn. "If we didn't remember that the last time we touched a hot stove we got burned, we would be more likely to do it again. So in this sense, even memories of bad or frightening experiences are useful. However, there are some cases in which fearful memories become maladaptive, such as with post-traumatic stress disorder or severe phobia. Selectively erasing these intrusive memories may improve the lives of afflicted individuals," she said. "Do our results suggest that someday this might be possible? Our studies suggest that one strategy would be to target interventions to that small subset of neurons actually involved in storing a memory, rather than the entire brain. It sounds like a futuristic film, but our results in mice do provide proof-of-principle that this may one day be possible in humans," added Paul Frankland, SickKids Scientist, assistant professor ofphysiology, Canada Research Chair in Cognitive Neurobiology andco-investigator of the study. "Our memories are an essential part of who we are, in fact some believe it is the ongoing connection between our thoughts and memories that constitutes our identity," said Christine Harrison, SickKids director of bioethics. "As the research in this area continues to evolve, so do the ethical considerations related to potential future therapies." http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-scientists-selectively-erase-fear-memories-and-gain-insight-into-how.html … read more>>

Mar. 06, 2009 - Two researchers win NSERC Steacie Fellowships
Two researchers win NSERC Steacie Fellowships A pair of U of T faculty members -- Professors Ray Jayawardhana of astronomy and Brendan Frey of electrical and computer engineering -- have been awarded two of six 2009 E.W.R. Steacie Memorial Fellowships. The highly competitive fellowships are awarded annually by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada (NSERC) to enhance the career development of outstanding and highly promising scientists and engineers. Fellows are relieved of teaching and administrative duties for two years so that they can devote all their time and energy to research. Jayawardhana is interested in the origin and diversity of planetary systems and the formation of stars. His work recently made media headlines when his research group captured the first direct image of an Earth-like planet revolving around a star. He holds the Canada Research Chair in observational astronomy. "Ray Jayawardhana is an extraordinary scientist whose international impact belies his age. His recognition with a Steacie Fellowship is further proof that some of the biggest stars in astronomy are actually here on Earth, at the University of Toronto," said Professor Meric Gertler, dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science. "It's a wonderful recognition not only for myself but for my research group," said Jayawardhana of the award, "especially given that this is the International Year of Astronomy." Frey's research focuses on the theory and implementation of artificial and natural mechanisms for inferring patterns from masses of data. He is currently working on understanding how genes interact with one another and how they get amplified to make up to a million transcripts controlling complex processes such as the formation of intricate neural structures in the human brain. He is a Canada Research Chair and a fellow of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research. "Brendan Frey is an outstanding scholar in the field of machine learning," said Professor Cristina Amon, dean of the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering. "We are grateful to NSERC and delighted that he is the recipient of the Steacie Fellowship, which will enable him to focus on leading-edge research." "Scientific research has a major, long-term influence on the success of Canadian society," said Frey. "Because of this award, my graduate students and I are more likely to make scientific breakthroughs." "We are grateful to NSERC for this recognition," said Professor Paul Young, vice-president (research). "The Steacie Fellowship is one of the nation's highest awards for scientists, so we are all enormously proud of Professors Jayawardhana and Frey. They are asking fundamental questions about our world and ourselves -- this kind of curiosity and creativity is the hallmark of great science." The fellowships will be awarded March 16 in Ottawa as part of NSERC's Tribute to Research Excellence celebration. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/campus-news/two-researchers-win-nserc-steacie-fellowships.html … read more>>

Mar. 06, 2009 - Three Canada Research Chairs Renewed
Three Canada Research Chairs Renewed UHN congratulates the following awardees on the recent renewal of their Canada Research Chairs (CRC) totaling approximately $3.5M in research dollars over the next seven years. Chair awardees include: Dr. Kevin Kain, Tier I Canada Research Chair in Molecular Parasitology; Dr. Alejandro Jadad, Tier I Canada Research Chair in eHealth Innovation; and Dr. Peter Cheung, Tier II Canada Research Chair in Chromatin Regulation. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Feb. 27, 2009 - Regenerative Medicine: Discovering New Lung Repair Methods
Regenerative Medicine: Discovering New Lung Repair Methods Announced on Feb 27, 2009 A new population of cells from the bone marrow, discovered by a team of TGRI investigators, have the potential to reconstruct damaged airways and to be developed as a new method of cell-based or regenerative therapies for lung disease. Led by Dr. Thomas Waddell and colleagues Amy Wong (PhD student) and Dr. Armand Keating, the team discovered the population of cells expressing the Clara cell secretory protein (CCSP)--a marker of airway progenitor and stem cells--through a series of experiments. When these CCSP-expressing cells were injected into naphthalene-damaged lungs, they preferentially migrated to the damaged areas and developed into multiple airway cell types. "For the first time we've been able to show that these CCSP-expressing cells are able to engraft in the lung and grow into different lung epithelium," explains Dr. Waddell. "With continued research, these bone marrow CCSP cells may have substantial value as a cell replacement therapy for lung epithelial diseases. We know these cells do exist in humans and are currently determining if they change in a variety of lung diseases". Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Feb. 24, 2009 - Molecular and cellular sensors aid early diagnosis of cancer
Molecular and cellular sensors aid early diagnosis of cancer When Professor Shana Kelley walks down the street to her lab at University and College she is sometimes mistaken for a student. A casual observer would likely never guess that the five-foot-one youthful-looking tenured professor of chemistry is consumed with developing a cost-effective technology that will revolutionize the way we treat disease. Kelley's lab is producing new diagnostic tests using technology similar to that used in computers -- microchips that will enable cost-effective disease diagnosis. In addition to working on diagnostic tools to enhance cancer treatments, her lab is developing microchips that detect infectious pathogens and that can predict whether a patient will have adverse reactions to drugs. "We are in the midst of developing a chip-based platformthat will allow us, for just a few dollars, to detect genes that would make people poor responders to certain drugs, diagnose cancer at an earlier stage and allow us to detect infectious disease," said Kelley, who teaches at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy. The chip is important is because it is practical. There are technologies that can detect specific genes but they cost hundreds of dollars and are not easily implemented in a hospital setting. Kelley's research will have an impact on drug development primarily by providing tools for physicians to help classify cancers and other diseasesmore accurately. Often the exact drug that should be used in treatment depends on the type and stage of the disease and getting this specific information using current tools is difficult, she said. Although there is related research, Kelly said that no other lab has the combined features in one system. Kelley is also working on other techniques to make drugsmore effective. One subset of her work -- controlling the intracellular localization of synthetic molecules -- is essential for effective drug development. This research concentrates on controlling the fates of drugmolecules once they are inside the cell. "We have developed strategies to control the trafficking of drugs with anti-cancer properties so that they end up in the right compartment,making them more effective," said Kelley. "We match the chemical properties of the things we are developing to the chemical properties of the cell compartments. One of the basic rules of chemistry is, like attracts like." She used hydrophobicity as an example. "If you takes something that is greasy and find a compartment in the cell that is greasy and then we tailor the greasiness of the drug, the result is better targeting of the grease to the grease." Cancer treatment provides a prime example of the significance of this application. "One thing that is very tricky with developing anti-cancer drugs is to make them very specific for cancer cells versus healthy cells. A lot of the agents used for chemotherapy aren't very specific so you end up with really unpleasant side effects -- because both kinds of cells are affected.We need to work on that aspect of the drugs and help them recognize a cell that is diseased versus one that is healthy." http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/molecular-and-cellular-sensors-aid-early-diagnosis-of-cancer.html … read more>>

Feb. 24, 2009 - Confronting pain: multiple approaches required
Confronting pain: multiple approaches required Got pain? Well, your petsmay receive better painmanagement than you do, including pain pills. Research shows some clinicians are reluctant to prescribe needed pain medications, perhaps due to inadequate education, resulting misbeliefs and regulatory scrutiny. "Drugs are one part of treatment for pain," said Professor Judy Watt- Watson of U of T's Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing. "They are an important part of significant acute pain and they can be an important part along with other modalities for chronic pain. They are primary for any severe acute pain such as with trauma and surgery. But they aren't the only modality." Research conducted by Watt-Watson with Professors Michael McGillion and Judi Hunter, shows that there is a poor level of pain education across Canada. Their study concluded that veterinary graduates receive three times more training in pain management than other health grads, including doctors and nurses. In the survey, commissioned by the Canadian Pain Society, veterinary medicine students received an average of 87 hours of designated pain education, including medications coursework ranging from 27 to 200 hours. In contrast, medical schools identified an average of 16 hours of identifiable pain content in the curriculum, ranging from zero (where the respondent couldn't identify any specific training on the subject) to 38 hours and nursing programs averaged 31 hours, ranging from zero to 109 hours. "While we can't take away all pain, we need to do better than we're doing," Watt-Watson said. "The patients expect us to be using everything we know in terms of all the latest thinking around strategies including drugs and we are not." Watt-Watson said the team collected data from 41 programs at 10 major universities across Canada, representing seven of eight provinces with medical schools, and had an overall 79 per cent response rate. "We noted with some concern that more than two-thirds of respondents were unable to specify any designated hours on pain, either in the course or clinical conferences," said Watt-Watson, principal investigator for the study. "While 90 per cent of health sciences and all veterinary programs professed to include 'formal' pain content in their curricula, the fact that this training wasn't quantifiable for 68 per cent suggests that pain education may not be a priority in a significant number of health science faculties. This is supported by the fact that many respondents also expressed a need for pain-related curriculum resources." Other studies have already shown that acute pain is not well managed and that 25 per cent of Canadians suffer from chronic pain. Despite this, access to effective treatment for chronic pain is also poor. Watt-Watson does say, however, that there have been a number of changes in pain management training over the years, with U of T taking a lead on education in this area. The U of T Centre for the Study of Pain inter-faculty pain curriculum delivers a mandatory 20-hour curriculum for students from six faculties and departments in health sciences. "They have 20 hours where they come together and learn the latest evidence on mechanisms for treatment and hear patient stories of those with different pain problems," she said. "They are also given several patient cases to work on ... in small groups where they learn the importance of inter-professional collaboration." Extensive evaluation indicates the curriculum effectively changes knowledge and beliefs in the short term but future research will examine its impact in clinical practice. As well, research is now underway to develop web-based models to facilitate teaching pain curricula in universities across Canada. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/confronting-pain-multiple-apporaches-required.html … read more>>

Feb. 24, 2009 - Polymers may aid drug absorption
Polymers may aid drug absorption Getting the right drug at the right time is key for almost any patient but making sure the drug is actually being absorbed properly by the body is even more important. Pharmacy professor Ping Lee and his teamare looking at ways to "get thatmedicine down" and improve how the body absorbs several poorly soluble drugs. Lee has discovered that by engineering a glass-like carriermaterial for the drug, it is possible to enhance its solubility and control the rate at which a drug is released in the body. Low availability of drugs to the body due to poor solubility has become one of the biggest challenges in drug delivery and Lee's research could be pivotal on this front. He said solubility is one of the key factors affecting drug absorption as it will determine how well a compound dissolves in the aqueous environment of the gastrointestinal tract. Low solubility willmean that only a smaller amount of the drug can dissolve and will be less accessible to the body, so the goal is to maximize solubility for these poorly soluble drugs. "Many poorly soluble drugs require the patients to takemultiple capsules several times a day to achieve the desired therapy. But with thismethodology one can conceivably reduce the number of dosage forms a patient needs to take," Lee said. "Once you've improved the solubility and bioavailability of the drug, you don't have to put in as much drug in the dosage formto achieve the desired therapeutic effect and economically it would bemore attractive as well." The patient compliance will also be improved as the number of capsules a patient needs to take will be reduced. Through his research Lee found that molecularly dispersing the drug in a polymer can create a buffer between the drugmolecules, thereby preventing it from crystallizing in the body. The large molecule or polymer acts to delay the thermodynamic transition of the drug from the amorphous or non-crystalline state. Keeping the amorphous drug in a polymer can significantly increase its apparent solubility and enhances its bioavailability. This particular hydrogel or glassy hydrophilic polymer is most desirable for this purpose, he said, because it behaves just like glass. "The hydrogel polymers are like glass in the dry state but once they're swollen in an aqueous environment they behave like rubber and release the entrapped drug. The hydrogel polymers in the glassy state basically stabilize the entrapped amorphous drug by dramatically reducing itsmobility until it is released in the body." His research, he said, focuses not only on developing a polymer that enhances solubility but also finding one that allows control of the rate at which a drug is released in the body. Lee said this kind ofmanipulation in drug delivery can be of great value to the healthcare system, both for the patient and the systemas a whole. "It will help bringmore pharmacologically active but poorly soluble compounds onto the market and provide the opportunity to utilize drugs that would otherwise be poorly absorbed by the body due to inadequate solubility. This could be one of the most effective methods to deliver poorly soluble drugs in the future." http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/plymers-may-aid-drug-absorption.html … read more>>

Feb. 20, 2009 - ONTARIO SUPPORTS WORLD-CLASS SCIENCE
ONTARIO SUPPORTS WORLD-CLASS SCIENCE McGuinty Government Matches Kyoto Prize Funding For Dr. Anthony Pawson NEWS Ontario is supporting world-class biomedical research by matching renowned University of Toronto cell biologist Dr. Anthony Pawson’s $500,000 Kyoto Prize . Dr. Pawson conducts research at the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital. His discoveries have been instrumental in the fight against diseases including diabetes and cancer. His work has also led to the development of a new generation of drugs that stop the growth of diseases like cancer. He is one of the first Canadians to ever receive the Kyoto Prize. Supporting world-class research is part of the McGuinty government’s Innovation Agenda and five-point plan for growing Ontario’s economy. QUOTES “Ontario is proud to recognize Dr. Pawson for his groundbreaking work. I am pleased to once again demonstrate our government’s commitment to science by investing in Ontario’s greatest asset – our people. It is their imagination, talent, skills and hard work today that will strengthen our economy, improve our lives and create good jobs for the future,” said Minister of Research and Innovation John Wilkinson. “The fact that the Ontario government is matching the Kyoto Prize is very exciting – it establishes a very real bond between Ontario and Kyoto, two globally recognized centres of scientific excellence. This enlightened support is essential to maintain the outstanding quality of biomedical research in Ontario, and to promote the careers of outstanding young scientists who will be the research leaders of the future,” said Dr. Pawson. “We are delighted that the government continues to lead Ontario forward with its research and innovation agenda. The University of Toronto community takes particular pride in Professor Pawson’s path-breaking scientific research – research that has already led to life-saving advances in the field of cancer therapeutics,” said University of Toronto President David Naylor. QUICK FACTS With 25 research and academic hospitals employing 10,000 scientists, clinical investigators and other researchers conducting $850 million in research annually, Ontario is the largest hub of biomedical activity in Canada and the fourth largest biomedical research centre in North America. Dr. Anthony Pawson is a British-born Canadian microbiologist whose research has revolutionized the understanding of how cells in a body communicate and control one another’s behaviour through chemical signals. The Kyoto Prize, similar in intent to the Nobel Prize, recognizes outstanding works in the fields of philosophy, arts, basic sciences and technology. http://www.mri.gov.on.ca/english/news/default.asp … read more>>

Feb. 11, 2009 - Regenerative Medicine: Discovering New Lung Repair Methods
Regenerative Medicine: Discovering New Lung Repair Methods A new population of cells from the bone marrow, discovered by a team of TGRI investigators, have the potential to reconstruct damaged airways and to be developed as a new method of cell-based or regenerative therapies for lung disease. Led by Dr. Thomas Waddell and colleagues Amy Wong (PhD student) and Dr. Armand Keating, the team discovered the population of cells expressing the Clara cell secretory protein (CCSP)—a marker of airway progenitor and stem cells—through a series of experiments. When these CCSP-expressing cells were injected into naphthalene-damaged lungs, they preferentially migrated to the damaged areas and developed into multiple airway cell types. "For the first time we've been able to show that these CCSP-expressing cells are able to engraft in the lung and grow into different lung epithelium," explains Dr. Waddell. "With continued research, these bone marrow CCSP cells may have substantial value as a cell replacement therapy for lung epithelial diseases. We know these cells do exist in humans and are currently determining if they change in a variety of lung diseases". Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Feb. 11, 2009 - Cardiology: Tackling the Challenge of Kidney Risk Factors
Cardiology: Tackling the Challenge of Kidney Risk Factors A TGRI team led by Dr. Keyvan Karkouti with colleagues Drs. Terrence Yau, Stephen Fremes, Stuart McCluskey, Scott Beattie, and Duminda Wijeysundera has identified modifiable risk factors of acute kidney injury (AKI) following cardiac surgery that could greatly affect patient outcome. “AKI is a common complication of cardiac surgery and by understanding how these risk factors play a role in the onset of this condition, health care teams can tweak current practices to try and avoid it,” comments Dr. Karkouti. Looking at a group of over 3400 patients at seven hospitals who had undergone cardiac surgery, the team showed that several independent risk factors—including comorbidities diabetes mellitus, preexisting kidney disease, and left ventricular dysfunction—contributed to AKI. “Of particular interest, the three factors independently associated with AKI that can be controlled by the healthcare team are preoperative anemia (or low red blood cell counts), red blood cell transfusions and surgical reexploration,” says Dr. Karkouti. “Knowing the important role these factors play in the development of this complication, we can now look at therapies aimed at mitigating these factors to decrease the chances of AKI in patients.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Feb. 11, 2009 - Leukemia: Harnessing Genetics to Understand Susceptibility
Leukemia: Harnessing Genetics to Understand Susceptibility Results highlighted in recent work from a team of Korean and UHN investigators is providing important information on variations in genes from an apoptosis pathway—a pathway responsible for causing cell death—and the implications each of these variations have in terms of susceptibility to chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Leukemia occurs when too many white blood cells are being produced in the bone marrow, and unlike acute leukemia, CML usually progresses slowly over time. Comments study senior author Dr. Jeffrey Lipton, “We’re trying to simultaneously look at single DNA base changes in multiple pathways known to be involved in the development of CML.” Former UHN fellow Dr. Dennis Kim with Dr. Lipton and co-investigators Drs. Katherine Siminovitch and Hans Messner, conducted a series of genetic and molecular analyses on blood taken from CML patients receiving or not receiving therapy at the Princess Margaret Hospital and compared results to patients that did not have CML. Regardless of treatment, individuals with a specific DNA change in the gene Bcl-2 (which is involved in the survival of blood stem cells) had increased susceptibility to CML. “This single DNA base change was significantly associated with susceptibility to CML,” comments Dr. Lipton. “Our approach could be useful to predict the risk of CML, an uncommon leukemia in the general population, and future studies will work on further validating current results with larger numbers of cases from different ethnic groups.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Feb. 11, 2009 - Ankylosing Spondylitis: Translating Gene Findings into Biomarkers
Ankylosing Spondylitis: Translating Gene Findings into Biomarkers Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine, and a recent TWRI initiative has discovered that a broad screening of changes in gene activity may be an effective tool for determining treatment response. “We see significant changes in gene expression when patients with AS are administered a monoclonal antibody against Tumor Necrosis Factor. We then used a global screening tool to analyze gene activity. This could give us insights into disease development,” comments Dr. Nigil Haroon, Research Fellow in Rheumatology. Drs. Haroon, Florence Tsui, Robert Inman and colleagues analyzed the blood of patients with AS for changes in gene activity at the onset of the study, and again at two weeks following infliximab treatment. The team found six genes, related to changes in other known markers of inflammation that significantly differed in activity. “For those patients who were treated with infliximab, we detected activity change in four genes,” says Dr. Inman. “The sLIGHT gene was most significantly down regulated, or ‘turned down’ with treatment and was clinically associated with a decrease in inflammation. This particular strategy could be used in future studies to look at a larger patient population. The study highlights the strengths of integrating a clinical database with a bioprofiling database to develop new insights into basic mechanisms of disease.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 16, 2009 - Cancer: Molecular Structure Illustrates Form and Function
Cancer: Molecular Structure Illustrates Form and Function Announced on Jan 16, 2009 Recent progress in structural biology at OCI has yielded interesting findings that will leave their mark on future targeted cancer therapies. The team, led by UHN's Dr. Cheryl Arrowsmith, has discovered the molecular structure of the cancer protein Pirh2 and the mechanics behind how it contributes to a cancer promoting environment. "Pirh2, originally discovered at UHN by Dr. Sam Benchimol, is a member of a unique group of proteins that bind to the cancer fighting protein p53, preventing it from stopping dangerous cancer cell growth," explains Dr. Arrowsmith. Using an arsenal of structural biology techniques, the team has discovered the 3-dimensional shape of Pirh2 and the areas within this protein that bind to the p53 protein thereby tagging the latter as 'cellular waste'. Notes Dr. Arrowsmith, "The family of proteins that Pirh2 belongs to has garnered a lot of attention in cancer research recently because of the important role it plays in cancer development and growth, and its involvement in many types of cancers. Continued research will aim to develop therapies that target the removal of these proteins to promote p53 activity and control of dangerous cancer cell growth." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 14, 2009 - Thyroid Cancer: Stopping Cancer Growth Where it Starts
Thyroid Cancer: Stopping Cancer Growth Where it Starts Investigations by TGRI researcher Dr. Mingyao Liu and doctoral student Monika Lodyga, together with their colleagues from the Universita Federico Il di Napoli in Italy, have uncovered an important onco-protein in the growth and survival of thyroid cancer cells. Using thyroid cell lines from humans, Dr. Liu and his team were able to successfully show that the XB130 protein contains a region in its structure that is targeted by RET/PTC kinase—a protein pathway responsible for promoting thyroid cancer. “When XB130 is phosphorylated by RET/PTC, it prefers to associate with PI 3-kinase. This association acts as a bridge to link the two pathways, so that they are activated to specifically promote thyroid cell growth and survival,” says Dr. Liu. “Knowing where the thyroid cancer growth process begins will allow us to develop novel therapies that stop the disease in its tracks.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 14, 2009 - Virology: Understanding the Mechanisms of Infection
Virology: Understanding the Mechanisms of Infection A new finding from TGRI adds important knowledge to our understanding of how infection, especially poxviruses, spreads throughout the human system and where the spread may potentially be stopped. The immune system contains chemokines, or proteins responsible for relaying messages that ignite T cells into action launching an immune response. During an immune response, a chemokine receptor, CCR5, plays a pivotal role in how the immune system responds. “When we conducted a CCR5 bone marrow transplant into mice without CCR5, virus infection occured as evidenced by lung and spleen infection,” says study lead Dr. Eleanor Fish. The team showed that CCR5 plays a role in spreading vaccinia virus (VACV), a poxvirus that led to the global eradication of smallpox. When mice deficient for CCR5 were infected with VACV, viral loads were diminished in the spleen and brain in comparison to mice with CCR5. “This is the first evidence showing that CCR5 is important for the migration of T cells out of affected lungs following intranasal VACV infection,” comments Dr. Fish. “We show that CCR5 expression in T cells contributes to the spreading of VACV beyond lung tissue, which suggests CCR5 may in fact be required for whole body poxvirus infection.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 13, 2009 - Parkinson’s Disease: Characterizing the Impact on Brain Cell Connections
Parkinson’s Disease: Characterizing the Impact on Brain Cell Connections A missing piece in the Parkinson’s Disease (PD) puzzle has been the knowledge of how synaptic plasticity—the ability of connections between brain cells to change—affects the development of disease in the absence of dopamine. Recent work by a TWRI team has brought new evidence to light regarding this missing puzzle piece. Led by Dr. William Hutchison and his doctoral student Ian Prescott and colleagues Drs. Jonathan Dostrovsky, Elena Moro, and Andres Lozano, the team characterized the synaptic plasticity of a specific region of the brain in 18 PD patients undergoing deep brain stimulation. Their findings show that when comparing patients ‘on’ or ‘off’ dopamine medication, the drug (or absence of it) clearly impacts brain signals and regulates synaptic plasticity in an activity-dependent manner. "This is very interesting for PD patients because we’ve been able to show that levodopa acts to control synaptic plasticity in a region of the brain that was not known before. The close correlation of patients' symptoms to activity in this region suggests that it may play an important role in the development and progression of PD symptoms,”says Dr. Hutchison. “By better understanding the mechanics behind this disease, we can come closer to more targeted treatment therapies used in symptom management.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 13, 2009 - Lupus: Monitoring the Advantages of Methotrexate
Lupus: Monitoring the Advantages of Methotrexate Researchers at TWRI with collaborators across Canada recently revealed advantages in using methotrexate to treat patients with moderately active lupus. Methotrexate is a commonly prescribed drug for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis that increases the body’s production of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Findings from the UHN double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study of patients with moderate systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), led by Dr. Paul Fortin, show that in comparison to study participants on placebo, patients prescribed methotrexate experienced decreasing disease activity and lowered daily prednisone dose. “Methotrexate was not only significant in reducing time-average prednisone use but patients also scored significantly better on the mental health component of the quality of life scale,” says Dr. Fortin. “As with any medication, there are some common side effects which patients should discuss with their physicians but our findings show that methotrexate use is beneficial for patients with moderately active lupus, especially in patients without damage.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 12, 2009 - Cancer: Molecular Structure Illustrates Form and Function
Cancer: Molecular Structure Illustrates Form and Function Recent progress in structural biology at OCI has yielded interesting findings that will leave their mark on future targeted cancer therapies. The team, led by UHN’s Dr. Cheryl Arrowsmith, has discovered the molecular structure of the cancer protein Pirh2 and the mechanics behind how it contributes to a cancer promoting environment. “Pirh2, originally discovered at UHN by Dr. Sam Benchimol, is a member of a unique group of proteins that bind to the cancer fighting protein p53, preventing it from stopping dangerous cancer cell growth,” explains Dr. Arrowsmith. Using an arsenal of structural biology techniques, the team has discovered the 3-dimensional shape of Pirh2 and the areas within this protein that bind to the p53 protein thereby tagging the latter as ‘cellular waste’. Notes Dr. Arrowsmith, “The family of proteins that Pirh2 belongs to has garnered a lot of attention in cancer research recently because of the important role it plays in cancer development and growth, and its involvement in many types of cancers. Continued research will aim to develop therapies that target the removal of these proteins to promote p53 activity and control of dangerous cancer cell growth.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 12, 2009 - Cancer: Studying the Benefits of Outpatient Palliative Care Intervention
Cancer: Studying the Benefits of Outpatient Palliative Care Intervention An OCI research initiative led by Dr. Camilla Zimmermann is one step closer to understanding how outpatient palliative care clinic (OPCC) consultations can improve patient symptom control and satisfaction. This is important in the growing interest of palliative care not only in the inpatient and home setting, but also in the outpatient setting. The prospective study, conducted at the Princess Margaret Hospital, evaluated consultation feedback from 123 patients and found that one week after the initial palliative care consultation, patients experienced a 10% change on the scale of overall symptom control which was sustained at one month. Specifically, patients experienced significant improvement in symptom control for anxiety, insomnia, dyspnea, depression and pain. Patient satisfaction also improved for a number of criteria, such as “Information given about how to manage pain,” "Doctor’s attention to symptoms,” “Pain relief,” “How thoroughly the doctor assesses symptoms,” and “Speed with which symptoms are treated.” “Our study has been able to show that the OPCC is efficacious for the improvement of symptom control and helps increase patient satisfaction with care at a very critical period,” comments Dr. Zimmermann. “It is also the first study to show feasibility of recruitment of patients attending a palliative care clinic. Our future studies are continuing to expand our knowledge on this important area of research by investigating the effect of early palliative care intervention.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Jan. 06, 2009 - SUPPORTING NEW ONTARIO COMPANIES THROUGH THE INVESTMENT ACCELERATOR FUND
SUPPORTING NEW ONTARIO COMPANIES THROUGH THE INVESTMENT ACCELERATOR FUND Ontario has announced new investments in eight promising high-tech companies. The funding comes from the $29-million Investment Accelerator Fund, which helps eligible start-up companies develop their technology and gain entrepreneurial expertise to bring their product or service to market. INVESTMENT ACCELERATOR FUND PROJECTS Ontario is investing up to $500,000 in each of the eight companies receiving Investment Accelerator Fund support. The companies are: C2C Link (Hamilton) – This McMaster University start-up makes optical crystal chips that efficiently convert laser light from one colour to another. The company’s technology is the only known method for producing commercially viable green and blue optical chips. Industry experts believe these chips will be the driving force behind a new generation of laser-based displays so advanced that they will even replace LCD-based TVs and monitors, due to better quality and greater energy efficiency. Echologics Engineering (Toronto) – According to an International Water Supply Association study, 20 to 30 per cent of drinking water produced gets lost on the way to the tap. A December 2007 Sustainable Asset Management study estimated that total water lost in the US alone is 23 million m3 per day – roughly the equivalent of 9,200 Olympic-size swimming pools. Leaks are considered to be the major cause of this water loss. Echologics Engineering Inc. is developing and commercializing technology to reduce leaks in water distribution systems. IPeak Networks (Kanata) – IPeak Networks has developed a solution for improving the performance of applications across wide area networks like the Internet. IPeak's technology dramatically reduces packet loss and boosts file delivery speed. The results include smooth and uninterrupted VOIP calls and video transmissions, and increased realism for online games. In December 2007, the Ottawa Centre for Research and Innovation voted IPeak one of Canada’s Top 10 technology companies. Kneebone (Toronto) – Kneebone Inc. offers proprietary software and related services to corporate clients seeking to make their marketing more effective. Marketing performance measurement tools make it possible for clients to measure the impact of their marketing initiatives, helping them maximize the return on their marketing investments. Nulogy (Toronto) – Nulogy Inc. develops supply-chain management software for logistics and contract manufacturing companies. Its flagship PackManager product provides real-time labour, production and inventory information, helping businesses operate more efficiently. Nulogy has received several accolades, including winning a 2008 Red Herring Award for being one of the most innovative and promising companies in Canada. Regen Energy (Toronto) – A building’s 15-minute peak demand can account for 20 to 50 per cent of each month’s electricity bill. Regen has developed a wireless controller that automatically manages electrical peak demand levels for commercial heating and cooling applications, potentially reducing energy consumption at peak demand by up to 25 to 30 per cent. Historically, optimizing peak demand has only been an option for large commercial operations that could afford complex building automation systems. Regen controllers promise to bring better energy management to smaller organizations. Skymeter (Toronto) – Skymeter Corporation is a Toronto-based company that provides vehicle-use information using a combination of in-vehicle sensors and a patented data processing system. Potential applications of its system (either available now or in development) include road-use charging, parking metering, location-based marketing and pay-as-you-drive insurance. Sysomos (Toronto) – Sysomos Inc.’s patent-pending technology can monitor the entire social media space, including blogs, social networks, online forums and news sources. Customers use the company’s data analytics services to monitor how their products and brands are perceived online, and gauge customer reaction to ad campaigns and media coverage – all in real time. Investment Accelerator Fund support for two other companies – Atreo Medical Inc. and Metabacus Inc. – was announced in May. FROM IDEAS TO MARKET The Investment Accelerator Fund is a component of the Market Readiness Program. This program, which also includes the Business Mentorship and Entrepreneurship Program, is delivered on behalf of Ontario by the Ontario Centres of Excellence and MaRS, with the support of the National Angel Organization – Ontario. http://www.mri.gov.on.ca/english/news/IAF010509_bd1.asp … read more>>

Dec. 16, 2008 - UHN Research Gets Boost from OICR:
UHN Research Gets Boost from OICR: UHN’s Cancer Stem Cell program, led by Dr. John Dick, received $17M from the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research to continue its efforts in identifying cancer stem cells. UHN researchers are involved in other funded projects including the Imaging Research Laboratories, Robarts Research Institute in London; and the One Millimetre Cancer Challenge, led by Sunnybrook Research Institute. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 16, 2008 - Campbell Family Donation Sparks Creation of New Institute:
Campbell Family Donation Sparks Creation of New Institute: In early June, UHN announced a $37.5M gift that will create the new Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (CFCRI) housed at the Ontario Cancer Institute. Funding for the new institute will support a high content tumour bank, a state-of-the-art advanced molecular profiling lab and research in tumour metabolism, cancer stem cells, cancer genomics, proteomics, informatics, and guided therapeutics. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 16, 2008 - Landmark Funding Awarded to UHN:
Landmark Funding Awarded to UHN: The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) announced a $119.9M investment towards UHN's Advanced Therapeutics Research Platform. The award—the largest in UHN's history—includes $92.3M in new funding towards construction projects at Venus/TWRI, OCI and TGRI. It will fund significant new equipment across 7 research themes including signaling, clinical studies, stem cells, medical imaging, immunity, biomarkers, and drug discovery programs. CFI also announced a contribution of $27.6M in institutional operating funding related to the award. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 16, 2008 - 2M Boost to TWRI Hepatitis Program:
2M Boost to TWRI Hepatitis Program: A multidisciplinary team of investigators led by Dr. Jenny Heathcote was awarded $2M NIH funding towards the creation of a Clinical Centre for Chronic Hepatitis B at TWH. The only clinical centre in Canada to be funded, the centre will support a clinical therapeutic trial and infrastructure examining dual antiviral therapy. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 16, 2008 - Stem Cell Network Supports UHN Research:
Stem Cell Network Supports UHN Research: A UHN project is one of 10 new awards announced by the national Stem Cell Network. The large, multi-disciplinary initiative led by OCI’s Dr. Gordon Keller will produce liver cells from human embryonic stem cells and induced human pluripotent stem cells to test toxicity levels of drugs related to drug metabolism. Research will improve the drug discovery process and increase the potential for patient-specific therapy—a breakthrough that would mean less animal testing and results more applicable to human biology. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Alzheimer's Disease: TWRI Triggers Stimulating Findings:
Alzheimer's Disease: TWRI Triggers Stimulating Findings: Deep brain stimulation—implanting battery-powered electrodes into the brain to deliver electrical signals to the brain—has been primarily used in Parkinson's patients and other movement disorders. Drs. Andres Lozano, Mary Pat McAndrews, Colin Shapiro and Richard Wennberg found increasing electrode stimulator intensity caused memories to become more vivid and detailed. This may lead to the development of new treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and other memory problems. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Stroke: Taking Time to Understand Delayed Responses:
Stroke: Taking Time to Understand Delayed Responses: A TWRI team led by Dr. Lyanne Schlichter has developed a new ‘stroke-in-a-dish’ model, allowing scientists to study the events occurring in the penumbra. Their model focuses on microglia, key immune cells that can propagate ongoing toxic reactions in the penumbra, and led to identification of new specific targets, including receptors and secreted factors, which may prove vulnerable to new therapeutics. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Heart Failure: Controlling Cell Growth:
Heart Failure: Controlling Cell Growth: An international study led by TGRI researcher Dr. Rudiger von Harsdorf has uncovered promising parallels between the pathways controlling cell enlargement and cell proliferation—a hallmark of cancer. Cardiac hypertrophy—heart cell enlargement—is common in heart failure patients and manipulation of the cancer-related molecule p27 could provide a potential treatment for these patients. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Arthritis: New Treatment May Require Caution:
Arthritis: New Treatment May Require Caution: A potential replacement for COX-2 inhibitors—used to treat patients with pain, fever and inflammatory diseases like arthritis—may carry a previously unrecognized cardiovascular risk. Dr. Barry Rubin found patients at risk of infarction prescribed mPEGS-1 should be monitored closely as these drugs may affect their ability to recover from a heart attack. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Diabetes: A Three-Pronged Treatment Approach:
Diabetes: A Three-Pronged Treatment Approach: A new three-organ sensory network relaying vital information responsible for the regulation of glucose levels has been discovered by Dr. Tony Lam. The axis of communication exists between the gut, brain, and liver whereby accumulation of fats in the upper intestine triggers information to pass to the brain and then off to the liver. This signals the liver to decrease glucose production and maintain appropriate levels of blood glucose. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Regenerative Medicine: Growing Heart Cells for Repair:
Regenerative Medicine: Growing Heart Cells for Repair: Dr. Gordon Keller successfully grew human heart progenitor cells—immature heart cells—from embryonic stem cells, a major step towards creating functioning heart tissue. The group treated cultures of embryonic stem cells with a combination of growth-promoting proteins and was able to direct the stem cells to grow into three types of heart cells, representing a new means of efficiently and effectively producing these cell types. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Immune System: Taking Apart the ‘Engine’:
Immune System: Taking Apart the ‘Engine’: A new level of control has been revealed for interferon-gamma (IFNgamma)—an important ‘engine’ of the immune system involved in a variety of human diseases including cancer, multiple sclerosis, heart disease and arthritis. Dr. Rod Bremner and his team demonstrated that the BRG1 protein works with at least five other remote switches to activate the CIITA gene, in turn responsible for revving up the immune response. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Diabetes and Cardiology: Tracking Fat in Disease:
Diabetes and Cardiology: Tracking Fat in Disease: TGRI’s Dr. Gary Lewis found that elevated levels of free fatty acids stimulate production of ‘bad’ cholesterol not only in the liver, but also in the intestine. This suggests chronic high levels of free fatty acids are likely to play an important role in the overproduction of intestinal fats seen in insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, leading to dyslipidemia (unhealthy blood fat profiles), increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Hepatitis B: Examining New Therapeutic Approaches:
Hepatitis B: Examining New Therapeutic Approaches: A new therapy option that lowers the levels of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in patients with chronic hepatitis B no longer responsive to lamivudine was unveiled. Dr. Morris Sherman and colleagues showed that, after one year of treatment, 81% of patients treated with entecavir in combination with other antivirals showed clinically significant decreased levels of HBV DNA (up from 65% at the start of the study) and remained consistent throughout the second year of the study. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Malaria: Enzyme Deficiency Confers Protection in Humans:
Malaria: Enzyme Deficiency Confers Protection in Humans: With colleagues from McGill University, Dr. Kevin Kain has shown individuals deficient for the enzyme pyruvate kinase (PK)—required for energy production in the body—have a two-tiered system of disease protection. These PK-deficient individuals show reduced invasion of red blood cells by malaria parasites and an increased occurrence of phagocytosis of ring-stage-infected red blood cells. This may confer a protective advantage against malaria leading to novel therapies to treat and prevent this disease. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Colorectal Cancer: Detailing Genetic Changes in Disease:
Colorectal Cancer: Detailing Genetic Changes in Disease: An OCI study has important implications for increased precision in screening patients with familial colorectal cancer. Drs. Robert Bristow and Steven Gallinger found that specific single and larger-scale mutations in the MUTHY gene lead to defective proteins that can no longer repair DNA in an orderly manner—which ultimately produce colorectal cancer. Genetic mutations in this repair gene, and ultimately DNA repair proteins, are associated clinically with increased cancer risk. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Autoimmune Liver Disease: Clarifying the Importance of a Diagnostic Marker:
Autoimmune Liver Disease: Clarifying the Importance of a Diagnostic Marker: Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) are well recognized to be the hallmark of a chronic autoimmune biliary disease called primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and were formally considered disease specific. Dr. Jenny Heathcote evaluated 15 patients given a diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis over a follow-up period of 1 to 27 years. The team determined that although all patients had detectable AMA throughout follow up, none subsequently developed PBC. Therefore, AMA detection may not, in fact, mean the patient has PBC and patients can be managed with only medication for their autoimmune hepatitis if they do not develop PBC over the long term. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Male Fertility: Cancer Protein Involved in Sperm Development:
Male Fertility: Cancer Protein Involved in Sperm Development: Dr. Hitoshi Okada has revealed that a well-known cancer protein may be a possible molecular target in male infertility. Mice unable to make the Bat3 protein—responsible for regulating cell death—were completely infertile, indicating Bat3 is essential for the survival and maintenance of male germ cells. The study also demonstrated Bat3 is important for proper chromosome pairing during the exchange of genetic information. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Immunity: Mechanics Behind Signal Control:
Immunity: Mechanics Behind Signal Control: An OCI team is providing protein evidence to better understand the mechanics behind a specific kind of calcium regulation in immune diseases. Dr. Mitsu Ikura and his team drew out, section by section, the mechanics required by the protein STIM1 to detect calcium levels. The structure has led to the discovery of the previously unidentified ‘EF-hand’ domain which, in combination with the SAM domain, detects and responds to calcium. Mutations in this machinery can lead to dysfunctional immune cell activity. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Cardiology: Preventing Risky Heart Cell Remodeling After Injury:
Cardiology: Preventing Risky Heart Cell Remodeling After Injury: Acute or chronic ischemic injury patients who are also at a high risk of congestive heart failure may benefit from preclinical evidence showing that injected skeletal myoblasts improve cardiac function following injury. Dr. Ren-Ke Li and colleagues Drs. Richard Weisel and Terrence Yau found that, regardless of injection time, these cells improved global heart function and preserved heart wall thickness/elasticity in non-injured areas of the heart. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Regenerative Medicine: Directing Cell Growth:
Regenerative Medicine: Directing Cell Growth: Using mouse ES cells, Dr. Gordon Keller and his team showed that signals from the Notch pathway can direct hemangioblasts, precursors of blood and blood vessel cells, to grow into heart cells. This re-directed growth pathway occurs when the Notch signaling coordinates the activity of two other paths, the BMP and Wnt pathways, which are key in early stages of development. This provides insight into a novel approach to generating large numbers of heart cells for regenerative therapies. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Immunity: Stressing the Importance of Checkpoints:
Immunity: Stressing the Importance of Checkpoints: The immune system protein Fas—critical to maintaining homeostasis in the peripheral lymphoid organs—is an essential checkpoint governing T and memory B cell homeostasis. Dr. Tak Mak and assistant scientist Dr. Zhenyue Hao created a mouse model to show that, in mice lacking the Fas gene in B cells, these B cells infiltrate the liver and lungs causing multiple organ failure, altered lymphoid architecture, and dramatic changes in T cell signaling. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Dec. 15, 2008 - Chronic Hepatitis: Moving Towards New Treatments:
Chronic Hepatitis: Moving Towards New Treatments: As published in this month’s New England Journal of Medicine, Dr. Jenny Heathcote and an international team of investigators have shown that tenofovir DF—an oral drug currently approved for the treatment of HIV-1—should be considered as an option for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Tenofovir DF had superior antiviral efficacy over adefovir with similar safety profiles and was effective in suppressing HBV DNA levels in patients who had, and had not, previously received lamivudine Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 19, 2008 - Toronto Rehab's 4th Annual Research Day - November 19, 2008
Toronto Rehab's 4th Annual Research Day - November 19, 2008 We had an extremely successful Research Day last year with over 100 poster presentations. This year we will be repeating the popular “Minute-Madness” style presentation. For those of you who are new, the idea is that the authors of each poster are given precisely one minute and one slide to present their message to the audience. Afterwards, everyone will have a chance to visit the various posters for further discussion. Prizes will be awarded to the best Masters, PhD and Post-Doctoral posters, as well as best presentation. Who can present: Toronto Rehab Staff, scientists and students Who can attend: All are welcome! DEADLINES Poster Submission Wednesday, October 15, 2008 Registration (Attending Only) Wednesday, November 12, 2008 *New* ALL POSTER SUBMISSIONS MUST BE APPROVED BY YOUR TEAM LEADER! Spaces are limited! Please register as early as possible. *********************************************************************************************************************** Registration Form – to be completed by individuals who will only be attending Poster Submission Form – to be completed by individuals who will be presenting a poster Please refer to the Poster Guidelines Form for submission and registration procedures SUBMISSION GUIDELINES HAVE CHAGNED SINCE LAST YEAR *********************************************************************************************************************** The Sheraton Centre is wheelchair accessible. Accessible washrooms are located on the 2nd floor, as well as two single occupancy washrooms on the mezzanine level. For further information please contact Alexa Love, Research Day Coordinator: ResearchDay2008@TorontoRehab.on.ca 416-597-3422 ext. 7862 Or visit: http://www.torontorehab.on.ca/research/researchday.htm Registration forms are also available at the SPARC office (Room 11030, 11th Floor, 550 University Avenue) … read more>>

Nov. 18, 2008 - BIODISCOVERY TORONTO TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE – Nov 18th 2008
SAVE THE DATE: BIODISCOVERY TORONTO TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE – Nov 18th 2008 Dear early-stage investor, BioDiscovery Toronto invites you to attend a full day of presentations from Toronto’s entrepreneurs commercializing disruptive technologies in the life sciences and engineering sectors. Potential investment opportunities in therapeutic areas such as pain, cancer and Alzheimer’s are on the day’s roster as well as novel devices and diagnostics. The format involves a 10 minute presentation by inventors and C-level company personnel. No confidential information will be disclosed by the presenters. If you have any questions please feel free to call or e-mail me. This is an invitation-only event. Please RSVP by Nov 1. (We may also webcast the presentations - but still tentative). Look forward to seeing you soon! Kind Regards, Stephanie When: Tuesday Nov 18th, 2008 9:00 am - 5:00 PM Where: MaRS 101 College St, Toronto, Ontario … read more>>

Nov. 07, 2008 - Regenerative Medicine: Directing Cell Growth
Regenerative Medicine: Directing Cell Growth Researchers at the McEwen Centre for Regenerative Medicine have discovered that signals passing through the Notch pathway—involved in embryogenesis—can affect heart cell development, providing insight into a novel approach to generating large numbers of heart cells for regenerative therapies. Comments study lead Dr. Gordon Keller, “The molecular tools we’ve used in this project will provide us with greater knowledge of signaling pathways that regulate the development of cardiac cells from human ES cells.” Using mouse ES cells, Dr. Keller and his team showed that signals from the Notch pathway can direct hemangioblasts, precursors of blood and blood vessel cells, to grow into heart cells. The study shows that this re-directed growth pathway occurs when the Notch signaling coordinates the activity of two other paths, the BMP and Wnt pathways, which are key in early stages of development. “This re-direction occurs at a specific point in time and, by understanding the regulation during these developmental stages, we can start targeting certain time points to strategically and efficiently develop specific types of cells,” says Dr. Keller. “This is an exciting time in regenerative medicine and continued research will help get us to more targeted therapies.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 07, 2008 - Cancer: A New Model Explores Cell Aging and Cancer Causing Genes
Cancer: A New Model Explores Cell Aging and Cancer Causing Genes Investigation by OCI researcher Dr. Homayoun Vaziri and colleagues into how cancer cells bypass natural cell death and grow indefinitely is shedding light on how and where future cancer therapies could be targeted. This research focuses on telomerase—a protein responsible for maintaining chromosomal structures named telomeres. Telomerase is the only gene known that upon expression in normal cells makes telomeres long and makes the cells divide indefinitely. "Sea urchins of Canada’s west coast have very close ancestry with vertebrates such as humans and due to their short developmental period they provide the opportunity to look at developmental mechanisms and cell aging. Sea urchin embryos are simpler but the wiring of their telomeres closely resembles that of humans," says Dr. Vaziri. "Their telomere lengths and sequence is identical to that of humans." Using a series of molecular investigations, the team showed, for the first time, the existence of duplicated telomerase genes SpTERT-S and SpTERT-L in sea urchins. Changes in these specific genetic regions changed telomerase activity and, ultimately, bypassed cell death. "What is fascinating about these two telomerase genes is that they—like genes in cancer cells—keep changing and mutating," says Dr. Vaziri. "Cancer cells continuously mutate their functional genes, allowing them to stay 'one step ahead' of the body's protective mechanisms as well as cancer drugs. Our sea urchin study represents the first example of a new mechanism which creates this type of genetic diversity. Understanding this mechanism may ultimately help us control cancer cell growth through controlling telomerase activity." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 07, 2008 - Anorexia: Factors Predicting Successful Weight Management
Anorexia: Factors Predicting Successful Weight Management A recent National Institutes of Health funded study by UHN researchers Drs. Allan S. Kaplan, Marion Olmsted, Jacqueline Carter and Blake Woodside has shown that the best predictors of weight maintenance in anorexia nervosa (AN) patients over a one year follow up period following weight restoration are a higher weight or body mass index (BMI) reached and avoidance of rapid weight loss immediately following treatment. In collaboration with colleagues at the New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, the TGRI team followed 93 AN patients over a period of 6 to 12 months (treated at TGH or New York) whose weight had been restored following intensive treatment. Patients were randomly assigned treatment with the drug fluoxetine or placebo along with cognitive behavioral therapy. After one year, they found that patients with a higher BMI prior to randomization and lower rate of weight loss after randomization had a greater likelihood of maintaining a normal BMI. “Interestingly, compared to patients in New York, patients at the Toronto site were much better at maintaining their weight following initial weight restoration,” says study lead Dr. Kaplan. “Our findings indicate that early weight loss is highly predictive of relapse long term in anorexia nervosa and suggest that stressing greater weight restoration during intensive treatment and aggressive weight maintenance strategies after discharge from intensive care will assist in preventing relapse and improving the long term outcome of patients with AN.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 06, 2008 - Immunity: Stressing the Importance of Checkpoints
Immunity: Stressing the Importance of Checkpoints The immune system protein Fas—which is critical to maintaining homeostasis in the peripheral lymphoid organs—is an essential checkpoint governing T and memory B cell homeostasis, according to findings from a recent OCI study. Checkpoint defects result in the overproduction of the B cells responsible for destructive immune cell organ invasion that are found in autoimmune syndromes, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, hairy cell leukemia and lymphomas. The research team, led by Dr. Tak Mak and assistant scientist Dr. Zhenyue Hao, created a mouse model and used a series of genetic experiments to show that, in mice lacking the Fas gene in B cells, these B cells infiltrate the liver and lungs, causing multiple organ failure, altered lymphoid architecture, and dramatic changes in T cell signaling. According to Dr. Hao, the Fas protein is imperative for maintaining the correct balance of T and B cells in the immune system. If this checkpoint is disrupted, damaging B cells will be overproduced, leading to significant immune system issues. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 06, 2008 - Cardiology: Preventing Risky Heart Cell Remodeling After Injury
Cardiology: Preventing Risky Heart Cell Remodeling After Injury Patients with acute or chronic ischemic injury who are also at a high risk of congestive heart failure may benefit in years to come from recent preclinical evidence out of TGRI showing that injected skeletal myoblasts—undifferentiated or ‘young’ muscle cells—improve cardiac function following injury. Led by Dr. Ren-Ki Li and colleagues Drs. Richard Weisel and Terrence Yau, the team injected myoblasts into infarct (damaged) or noninfarcted muscle tissue around the heart at 5 or 30 days following heart injury in a preclinical mouse model. Regardless of when they were injected, these cells improved global heart function and preserved heart wall thickness/elasticity in non-injured areas of the heart. “It’s exciting to see that these injected cells were so well able to improve ventricular and overall heart function,” notes Dr. Li. “These findings provide strong evidence that structural remodeling of heart cells is important for improving outcomes in congestive heart failure.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Nov. 06, 2008 - Psoriatic Arthritis: Where Fatigue Fits In
Psoriatic Arthritis: Where Fatigue Fits In Recent findings by TWRI researcher Dr. Dafna Gladman and colleagues have shown that fatigue is a common symptom in psoriatic arthritis (PsA)—which is an inflammatory arthritis associated with psoriasis and affects both genders equally—and is associated with other factors, such as pain and psychological distress. “It’s important to acknowledge other disease factors so as to understand how they affect the way a patient copes with disease,” notes Dr. Gladman. Using a questionnaire and statistical model, 499 patients from the University of Toronto PsA clinic were studied to investigate the relationship between disease-related and psychosocial variables and fatigue scores (mFSS). Results indicate that fatigue is associated with pain, female gender, physical function disability, and medication status. Fatigue provides information that does not overlap with other outcome measures. “The results show how healthcare teams can work with patients to help improve how they deal with various disease symptoms. Future studies will need to look into the impact of other factors such as sleep quality, smoking status and body mass index to really appreciate how fatigue affects individual patients with PsA,” she says. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 17, 2008 - Imaging: Focusing on Alleviating Pain
Imaging: Focusing on Alleviating Pain TGRI researchers have discovered a safe alternative treatment option to decrease pain associated with bone metastasis and increase the quality of life in these patients. “For the first time we’ve been able to show that using a sophisticated type of ultrasound—called MR imaging-guided focused ultrasound—holds tremendous potential for almost complete pain relief associated with bone metastases,” says lead author Dr. David Gianfelice. With colleagues Drs. Walter Kucharczyk, Mark Clemons, Patrice Bret and colleagues, a total of 11 patients received the new treatment in a non-invasive outpatient procedure. All patients reported progressive decrease in pain in treated areas and reduction in pain medication use up to 3 months following the study. “Using this non-invasive technique, forty-five percent of patients saw increased bone density at the site of treatment including hip bones, shoulder blade and collar bone,” notes Dr. Gianfelice. “This is an incredible result and we look forward to expanding the study to show the effects in a larger population.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 17, 2008 - Regenerative Medicine: ‘Current’ Findings in Neuronal Stem Cell Migration
Regenerative Medicine: ‘Current’ Findings in Neuronal Stem Cell Migration 'Current’ findings out of TWRI showcase the potential benefits of marrying direct-current electrical fields with neuronal stem cells to promote neuronal regeneration—or rebuilding the lines of information transmission in the brain—after stroke or brain injury. With colleagues from China and the US, UHN study lead Dr. Qi Wan has provided the first evidence that electrical fields guide and control the direction of stem cells migrating in the brain through a specific pathway. Says Dr. Wan, “Understanding how endogenous stem cells are controlled is incredibly important in developing regenerative strategies for the treatment of diseases like stroke.” Applying these fields to a rat model, they found that stem cell migration is mediated through a pathway of protein interaction involving cell migration (the NMDA receptor/Rac1/actin cytoskeleton signal transduction pathway). “Electricity activates the NMDR receptor and prepares the cell for move and new building,” notes Dr. Wan. “These results suggest that controlled stimulation of electrical fields may be safe for clinical application and serve as a practical therapeutic strategy for brain repair by directing stem cells to injured regions to replace cell loss.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 17, 2008 - Neurology: A First in Determining Injury Mechanics
Neurology: A First in Determining Injury Mechanics Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a common and devastating form of stroke, but there are no drug treatments. Progress in understanding this injury has focused almost entirely on grey matter damage (nerve cells), with little understanding of white matter injury or the result of delayed inflammation. Worse yet, experimental studies have used young animals, despite this stroke normally affecting older people. A UHN study provides a plausible explanation for the poorer functional recovery of the elderly after ICH, despite a similar loss of grey matter in young and aged animals. “To our knowledge, we're the first team to map injury progression after ICH over time and space; and to show that white matter injury is worse in the aged,” comments study lead Dr. Lyanne Schlichter, who conducted the study with graduate student, Jason Wasserman. Using a rat model of ICH, the team has discovered that in and around the bleeding zone (the core), nerve cells lose their insulating layer and die. Surprisingly, the axons of nerve cells were progressively damaged far outside this region, and this damage was worse in the old animals. The results also show that delayed inflammation might kill nerve cells in the core, but is unlikely to cause the axon damage further away. Says Dr. Schlichter: “This is important because it shows that older rats have a more difficult time recovering from brain hemorrhage than their younger counterparts, despite experiencing a similar injury. More importantly, we've provided hard evidence that there is a large window of opportunity (upwards of 3 days) for therapy, and that we need to focus on strategies to reduce white matter injury after ICH.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 17, 2008 - Biomarker Test Development from the Inside Out
Biomarker Test Development from the Inside Out By Mirella G.-Zulueta, M.D., M.Sc., Ph.D.A biomarker is a measurable indicator of a specific biological state, particularly one relevant to the risk of contracting, or determining the presence or stage of disease. Though historically often referring to a physical trait or physiological metric (heart rate, blood pressure), the term is now typically shorthand for a molecular biomarker. Molecular biomarkers can take many forms, and as a consequence a variety of strategies have been adopted for their discovery. The sequencing of the human genome, in conjunction with advanced analytical technologies, has made possible a new generation of molecular markers, including single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis, genetic and proteomic profiling, epigenetic profiling, and gene expression profiling, which carry the promise of increased disease-related sensitivity and specificity coupled with higher dimensional complexity to provide greater individualized disease management. http://www.bioscienceworld.ca/BiomarkerTestDevelopment … read more>>

Oct. 16, 2008 - Thyroid Cancer: The Importance of Anchoring the Cell
Thyroid Cancer: The Importance of Anchoring the Cell Recent findings out of OCI add to our understanding of how thyroid cancer cells grow and migrate, causing metastases. When lead investigator Dr. Shereen Ezzat and colleagues Dr. Sylvia Asa and graduate students genetically removed fibronectin (FN)—a protein responsible for preventing cells from migrating uncontrollably—from a mouse model of thyroid cancer, tumor growth significantly increased and larger, more numerous lung metastases developed. "Turning off FN, effectively shut off the process involved in anchoring cells. This clearly created an environment conducive to dangerous cancer growth. Our next studies looked at how this was happening, not just where," explains Dr. Ezzat. Cells lacking FN were shown to have elevated levels of the protein MAGE A3—a molecule responsible for promoting invasive cancer cell growth. MAGE A3 promotes growth of cancer cells by shutting down protective proteins like p21 and enhacing cell motility. In collaboration with the newly developed STTARR Innovation Centre at UHN, Dr. Ezzat and colleagues were also able to track the development of cancer metastases in this mouse model. "FN proteins target MAGE A3 proteins to prevent them from working and effectively keep cell growth in check," says Dr. Ezzat. "When this balance is disrupted, cancer progress is promoted. This points to the potential of MAGE-A3 as a diagnostic and even immunotherapeutic target in cancer treatment." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Oct. 16, 2008 - U of T, Kyoto U join forces in stem cell research
U of T, Kyoto U join forces in stem cell research New agreement should help bring therapies to market faster Thursday, October 16, 2008 A world-class partnership in stem cell research was forged today in Japan, as esteemed scientific teams at U of T and Kyoto University joined forces in the race to get cutting-edge therapies to the clinic. A research-sharing agreement signed in Tokyo bonds renowned stem cell researchers at U of T to Kyoto University's Shinya Yamanaka, the famed Japanese innovator who took the world by storm in 2007 by converting normal adult cells into embryonic-like stem cells. "Shinya Yamanaka and his team have developed some of the world's most important technology in stem cell research, and the team at U of T is among the best at differentiating cells to produce innovative therapies," said Bill Stanford, associate director at U of T's Institute for Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering (IBBME) and co-scientific director of the Ontario iPS Cell Facility. "Together, we'll share patient samples, technologies and protocols to get basic science to the clinic much faster." Stanford says the collaboration will greatly speed up development of drug therapies to treat conditions like autism and cystic fibrosis. In the not-so-distant future, cell replacement therapy will be a reality, too, he says. U of T's partnership with Kyoto University will also play a big role in ensuring Toronto and Ontario remain on the cutting edge of stem cell research, Stanford says. "We are already known as one of the best places in the world for stem cell research because of our genetic diversity, unique medical system and concentration of top-notch scientists," he said. "The partnership between U of T and Kyoto University will only solidify our reputation as a world leader in this field and it will certainly bolster home-grown opportunities for commercialization." "This research partnership brings together some of the most talented scientific minds from Ontario and the world to turn cutting-edge stem cell research into innovative treatments and faster therapies," said John Wilkinson, Ontario minister of research and innovation. "That's why we invested $1 million in the University of Toronto, to jump-start these types of cutting-edge international research collaborations." http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-kyoto-u-join-forces-in-stem-cell-research.html … read more>>

Oct. 15, 2008 - CEO Entrepreneur Bootcamp Quarterly Series
CEO Entrepreneur Bootcamp Quarterly Series Bringing Dollars to Innovative Technologies: Early Stage Financing, Development, and Marketing of your Product Convincing a hard-nosed financier to invest in your revolutionary technology is not easy, no matter how innovative a business technology may be. Join us in learning how to build a solid case to illustrate your technology’s commercial value. Learn about what message you need to communicate and gain knowledge about what legal steps you should take? The HTX-Cassels Brock CEO Bootcamp series opener, October 15 9 AM – 12 PM, will focus on hot topics for technology entrepreneurs. A top-notch panel of experts from across Ontario will provide insights on timely topics, including: • Organizing your Company for Investment• Angel vs. VC Investment – Making the Pitch• Term Sheets, Deal Structure, and Shareholder Agreements • Product Development• Understanding stakeholders in the selling process • Focusing on key segments of the market HTX and Cassels Brock invite you to listen to experienced entrepreneurs, including Michael H. May, Co-Founder and CEO of Rimon Therapeutics Ltd, Randy Pilon, Founder and CEO of Virox Technologies Inc., and Jean T. Castonguay, Founder, President and CEO of ProDrive Systems Inc., as they share their insights on financing their companies’ revolutionary technologies. As well as gain insight into how successful companies like Quillsoft Ltd, Ross + Doell Design, and Aurillion Micro Systems Inc., have developed and marketed products to solve a market need. The event will be held on Wednesday, October 15 at MaRS Convergence Centre (CR-3). Breakfast will be served at 9:00 a.m., with the panel discussions beginning precisely at 9:30 a.m. Pre-registration is highly recommended – early bird registrations will receive a 10% discount. Admission is $40 for “htx.ca-registered users”, $60 for “non-htx.ca-registered users”. Register by October 1, 2008 to receive your early bird discount. Cancellation Policy: Only cancellations received in writing by fax/email two (2) working days prior to the event date will be refunded. Substitutions are permitted and notification prior to the event date is appreciated. Location: MaRS Collaboration Centre, CR-3, 101 College Street, Toronto, ON Event Dates: Wednesday, October 15, 2008 URL: https://www.htx.ca/HTX/DesktopModules/Events/EditEvents.aspx?ItemID=1244&tabId=8 AGENDA.pdf Registration Form.pdf … read more>>

Oct. 14, 2008 - OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE: ACADEMIC CONTRIBUTION AND COMMERCIALIZATION
OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE: ACADEMIC CONTRIBUTION AND COMMERCIALIZATION For full information, please this this email below or visit http://carosch.gobigevent,com/onsett-2008oct Due to funding changes we rgret to inform that we must now charge fees for these events Member rate: $25.00 Non-member rate: $99.00 Webinar: no charge OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE: ACADEMIC CONTRIBUTION AND COMMERCIALIZATION Tuesday, October 14, 2008 10.00 am to 4.00 pm MaRS Discovery District, Collaboration Centre, Auditorium, Lower Level 101 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5G 1L7 … read more>>

Oct. 06, 2008 - U of T Researchers demonstrate that Epstein-Barr virus protein contributes
U of T Researchers demonstrate that Epstein-Barr virus protein contributes to cancer Monday, October 6, 2008 Researchers at the University of Toronto have discovered that the EBNA1 protein of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) disrupts structures in the nucleus of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells, thereby interfering with cellular processes that normally prevent cancer development. The study findings are published in the Oct. 3 edition of the journal PLoS Pathogens and describes a novel mechanism by which viral proteins contribute to carcinogenesis. EBV is a common herpes virus whose latent infection is strongly associated with several types of cancer including NPC, a tumor that is endemic in several parts of the world. With NPC only a few EBV proteins are expressed, including EBNA1. EBNA1 is required for the persistence of the EBV genomes; however, whether or not EBNA1 directly contributes to the development of tumours has not been clear, until now. The study conducted by Professor Lori Frappier of molecular genetics and her team at the University of Toronto examined PML nuclear bodies and proteins in EBV-positive and EBV-negative NPC tumour cells. (PML bodies are structures in the human cell nucleus that control several processes to do with repairing damaged DNA and determining whether the cell lives or dies.) Manipulation of EBNA1 levels in each cell type clearly showed that EBNA1 expression induces the loss of PML proteins and PML nuclear bodies through an association of EBNA1 with the PML bodies. PML nuclear bodies are known to have tumour-suppressive effects due to their roles in regulating DNA repair and programmed cell death, and accordingly, EBNA1 was shown to interfere with these processes."The findings support an important role for EBNA1 in the development of NPC, in which EBNA1-mediated disruption of PML nuclear bodies promotes the survival of cells with DNA damage," Frappier said. "Since EBNA1 is expressed in all EBV-associated tumours, including B-cell lymphomas and gastric carcinoma, these findings raise the possibility that EBNA1 could play a similar role in the development of these cancers. The cellular effects of EBNA1 in other EBV-induced cancers will require further investigation." http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-researchers-demonstrate-that-epsteinbarrvirus-protein-contributes-to.html … read more>>

Oct. 01, 2008 - U of T gains another Canada Research Chair
U of T gains another Canada Research Chair Wednesday, October 1, 2008 Feeling blue. Down in the dumps. The winter blahs. Our language is full of slang to describe various degrees of depression. But what's really going on inside a depressed brain? This is the question that drives U of T's newest Canada Research Chair, Professor Jeffrey Meyer of psychiatry and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. His appointment as the chair in neurochemistry of major depressive disorder is part of the latest round of funding from the federal government for the Canada Research Chairs program, which seeks to attract the world's most promising researchers to Canadian universities. Using brain imaging to understand the causes of major depressive disorder -- and to understand why it is sometimes resistant to treatment -- Meyer's work will enable the development of new and better treatment and prevention strategies. "We are absolutely delighted that Professor Meyer's work is being recognized with this investment," said Professor Paul Young, vice-president (research). "This is vital research that will have a direct impact on the health of millions who suffer from depression." Along with Meyer's new chair, U of T saw five existing chairs renewed: Anne-Emanuelle Birn of the Dalla Lana School of Public Health and health sciences at the University of Toronto Scarborough (chair in international health), Robert Kerbel of medical biophysics and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (chair in tumour biology, angiogenesis and antiangiogenic therapy), Hoi-Kwong Lo of physics and electrical and computer engineering (chair in quantum information), Stephen Lye of obstetrics and gynecology (chair in improvement in health and function) and Pamela Ohashi of medical biophysics and the University Health Network (chair in autoimmunity and tumour immunity). Two of the renewed chair holders -- Ohashi and Lye -- received additional funding totalling $795,379 from the Canada Foundation for Innovation for infrastructure costs associated with their research. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/lead-stories/u-of-t-gains-another-canada-research-chair.html … read more>>

Sep. 10, 2008 - New understanding of the aging brain
New understanding of the aging brain Variations of the gene that protects the brain as it ages may also indicate a susceptibility for Alzheimer's. (Toronto) – A team of researchers led by scientists at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) has discovered that the mammalian gene, p73 is essential for protecting the brain through the normal aging process. The findings suggest that reduced levels of p73 may increase a person's likelihood of developing Alzheimer's or another neurodegenerative disorder. Their findings are published in the September 2008 issue of Neuron . Using mouse models, researchers determined that a genetic variation that causes insufficiency for p73 leads to behavioural and anatomical changes commonly observed in the aging brain. Decreased levels of p73 were also found to cause key hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease, namely the appearance of deposits that resemble tangles, which are thought to interfere with and impair thinking and memory. “These findings are particularly exciting because little is known about why and how the brain ages or develops a disease like Alzheimer's,” says Dr. David Kaplan, Senior Scientist in the Cell Biology Program at SickKids, professor in the Department of Molecular Genetics, at the University of Toronto, Canada Research Chair in Cancer and Neuroscience, and a co-lead author of the study. “By showing the previously unsuspected role that p73 plays in neurodegeneration, we are one step closer to unraveling this mystery,” adds Dr. Freda Miller, Senior Scientist in the Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program at SickKids, professor in the Department of Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto, Canada Research Chair in Developmental Biology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute International Research Scholar and the study's other co-lead author. These findings could eventually lead to the development of genetic tests that measure levels of the gene and help determine whether a person is at enhanced risk for developing Alzheimer's. Early detection of this genetic anomaly in children could lead to therapies to address the issue before it manifests itself later in life. Other possibilities could include the development of drugs that increase the levels of p73, potentially helping to delay or halt the progression of neurodegenerative disease and aging. The Alzheimer's Society of Canada estimates that 450,000 (or one in 13) Canadians over the age of 65 have Alzheimer's or similar degenerative brain diseases. Approximately $5.5 billion (CAD) a year is spent on persons with Alzheimer's and related dementias. The study was supported by the Canadian Institute of Health Research, the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Neuroscience Canada , and SickKids Foundation. The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), affiliated with the University of Toronto, is Canada's most research-intensive hospital and the largest centre dedicated to improving children's health in the country. As innovators in child health, SickKids improves the health of children by integrating care, research and teaching. Our mission is to provide the best in complex and specialized care by creating scientific and clinical advancements, sharing our knowledge and expertise and championing the development of an accessible, comprehensive and sustainable child health system. For more information, please visit www.sickkids.ca . SickKids is committed to healthier children for a better world. http://www.sickkids.ca/mediaroom/custom/agingbrain08.asp … read more>>

Sep. 09, 2008 - U of T study finds a new mechanism for how methamphetamine affects the deve
U of T study finds a new mechanism for how methamphetamine affects the developing fetal brain September 9, 2008 University of Toronto researchers have discovered a new mechanism in mice that shows how the exposure to the illicit drug methamphetamine (METH) during pregnancy can adversely affect the developing fetal brain. METH is converted in the fetal brain to unstable free radical metabolites that react with oxygen within cells to produce highly active oxygen intermediates, termed reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS can cause oxidative damage to structures within the cell. One of these targets is DNA, which normally directs the manufacture of proteins essential for brain development. If the repair of oxidative DNA damage is insufficient, the fetus is born looking normal, but exhibiting long-term impairments in brain function. "Although oxidative DNA damage has long been associated with mutations and cancer, our study provides the most direct evidence to date that this mechanism can adversely affect critical events in the developing fetus," said Professor Peter Wells of the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, senior author of the study that appears in the September issue of the Journal of Neuroscience. Using genetically altered pregnant mice lacking an important protein for repairing oxidative DNA damage, oxoguanine glycosylase 1 (OGG1), Wells, doctoral students Andrea Wong and Winnie Jeng, and postdoctoral fellow Gordon McCallum showed that METH-exposed fetuses lacking OGG1 had higher levels of oxidative DNA damage in the brain compared to littermates with normal OGG1 activity. They also had a correspondingly greater deficiency in motor coordination for at least 3 months after birth. METH-exposed fetuses with normal OGG1 activity were normal and comparable to control fetuses exposed only to the saline vehicle, indicating that normal DNA repair was completely protective at this level of METH exposure. These results show not only that oxidative DNA damage can adversely affect the developing fetus, but also that fetal deficiencies in the pathways that repair this damage can constitute a risk factor for neurodevelopmental deficits, in this case manifested by long-term motor coordination deficits. Although the team's findings cannot be extrapolated to humans without further study, Wells believes they do suggest a novel mechanism through which METH may contribute to neurodevelopmental deficits, as well as potential risk factors for individual susceptibility. This study was funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research with support from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (U.S.A) and Health Canada's Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-study-finds-a-new-mechanism-for-how-methamphetamine-affects-the-deve.html … read more>>

Sep. 09, 2008 - Immunity: Reporting on a New Molecular Tool
Immunity: Reporting on a New Molecular Tool OCI investigators have creatively designed a glowing 'reporter' mouse that is used to study the CD83 promoter, a region of an immune gene responsible for the development of immune cells in the lymphoid organs. The mouse, designed by a group led by Dr. Tak Mak, glows in fluorescent light. The researchers showed that it is a valuable tool for monitoring the activation status and migration of dendritic cells and other immune cells during environmental stresses (for example, hyperthermia) that activate the immune system. "Understanding how the components of the immune system get started is key to creating future therapies that are targeted and highly specific in function. Only in this way can we build therapies which decrease side effects and increase their effectiveness. " explains Postdoctoral Fellow Matthias Lechmann, study lead. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 09, 2008 - Lung Cancer: Markers of Treatment Response
Lung Cancer: Markers of Treatment Response The response of patients to the new non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) drug erlotinib that targets epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is now becoming clearer thanks to a research partnership between PMH, OCI, National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials Group and Queen’s University clinical investigators and scientists. UHN researchers Drs. Ming-Sound Tsao, Frances Shepherd and Suzanne Kamel-Reid, analyzed tumors from over 200 patients participating in a clinical trial that evaluated the clinical benefit of erlotinib and looked at mutations in the KRAS and EGFR genes—shown to play a role in NSCLC—using highly sensitive techniques to detect abnormalities. Patients with tumors containing mutations or increased copy number of the EGFR gene experienced a higher response to erlotinib treatment, while patients with KRAS gene mutations are unlikely to benefit from the drug. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 09, 2008 - Diabetes: Digesting Eating Patterns in Female Teens
Diabetes: Digesting Eating Patterns in Female Teens Teenage girls and young women with type 1 diabetes have increased risks of developing clinical eating disorders because of disturbed eating behavior (DEB) that can worsen over time; new research findings from TGRI investigators show that nearly half of their sample of young teenage girls developed DEB between the ages of 11 and 17. "Attention to planning and control of dietary intake is critical in managing diabetes and this can amplify the focus on eating, body weight and body image in young women with diabetes," says study lead Dr. Marion Olmsted. In the prospective clinical study, the team interviewed and gathered self-reports of over 100 teenage girls with diabetes who had not yet developed DEB and followed them for a period of 5 years. In comparing girls who developed DEB to those that did not, predictors of DEB onset included higher BMI (body mass index) percentile; higherdepression and weight and shape concerns; and lower global and physical appearance-based self-worth. Mean scores on the measures of psychological functioning did not reach the levels seen in clinical samples, indicating that modest elevations of these measures suggest the development of problems over the next few years. "We need to lower the threshold for identifying girls with diabetes who are at risk for DEB," notes Dr. Olmsted. "Early interventions need to focus on helping girls develop positive feelings about themselves and their weight to protect them from DEB and encourage a healthy lifestyle." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 08, 2008 - Male Fertility: Cancer Protein Involved in Sperm Development
Male Fertility: Cancer Protein Involved in Sperm Development Surprising findings from the research labs of OCI’s Dr. Hitoshi Okada and from York University and Tohoku University have determined that a well-known cancer protein may be a possible molecular target in the battle against male infertility. Using a series of molecular tests in mice, study findings indicate that mice unable to make the Bat3 protein—responsible for regulating cell death—were completely infertile, indicating that Bat3 is essential for the survival and maintenance of male germ cells. “We’ve been able to biochemically and genetically show that Bat3 prevents the destruction of the HSP70-2 protein which is critical to normal sperm development,” explains Dr. Okada. The study also demonstrated that Bat3 is important for proper chromosome pairing during the exchange of genetic information. “It’s interesting to see Bat3 work to stabilize and regulate this very important process. With future studies, we could determine whether or not mutations in Bat3 might play a major role in male infertility and create treatments to deal with this accordingly.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 08, 2008 - Autoimmune Liver Disease: Clarifying the Importance of a Diagnostic Marker
Autoimmune Liver Disease: Clarifying the Importance of a Diagnostic Marker Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) are well recognized to be the hallmark of a chronic autoimmune biliary disease called Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC) formally considered disease specific. However, findings from a TWRI-led study are providing evidence that AMA detection may not, in fact, mean the patient has PBC at that time or later. “Patients diagnosed with PBC show the presence of AMAs in their blood, but whether all individuals with AMAs in their blood will develop PBC is less clear,” comments study lead Dr. Jenny Heathcote. The TWRI, US and German team evaluated 15 patients given a diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis over a follow-up period of 1 to 27 years, a unique feature in this study. Reviewing their findings, the team has determined that although all patients had detectable AMA throughout follow up, none subsequently developed PBC. Notes Dr. Heathcote, “Early treatment of their AIH with prednisone may have prevented the development of PBC but there are also many other possibilities to explain the finding. What we do know is that these patients can be managed with only medication for their autoimmune hepatitis if they do not develop PBC over the long term.” Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Sep. 08, 2008 - SickKids scientists confirm common ancestry of the eyes in humans and flies
Seeing eye to eye with…the fly?SickKids scientists confirm common ancestry of the eyes in humans and flies September 8, 2008 Toronto - Scientists at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) have established that despite our many differences, the genes that control the development of eyes in humans and flies are remarkably similar. This research, published in the September 9, 2008 issue of the journal Current Biology, suggests that the eyes of invertebrates (such as fruit flies) and vertebrates (such as humans) have a common ancestry. “This work is exciting because it suggests that our eyes and the eyes of the fruit fly, though they appear very different, share a common evolutionary history,” says Ted Erclik, a graduate student in the Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program at SickKids and at the Department of Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto, and the study’s lead author. “Our last common ancestor would have already contained a visual system with photoreceptors and the downstream neurons that connect the eyes to the brain.” Thanks in part to the powerful genetic tools available in the fruit fly, its eye has been an important research model for the study of human eye development and disease. Using the fly eye model, researchers compared the two visual systems and found many striking commonalities. Erclik’s study establishes that the common ancestor had a primitive visual system, which included photoreceptors (photosensitive cells which convert light into electrical impulses), as well as other nerves (interneurons and projection neurons), that connect the eye to the brain. “Ted's work beautifully demonstrates the power of genetic research on relatively simple animals such as the fruit fly, and how this can lead to unexpected insights into humans,” says Dr. Howard Lipshitz, Senior Scientist at SickKids, professor and Chair of the Department of Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto, Canada Research Chair in Developmental Biology, and Erclik’s co-supervisor. “Combining this understanding with prior research in Dr. Roderick McInnes' laboratory on these genes in mice and humans, we have gained a greater understanding of the genetic pathways, defects in which lead to blindness.” “The remarkable similarity in the regulation of eye development in flies and humans means that we can use the fly system to quickly identify other important genes that control human eye formation,” says Dr. McInnes, Senior Scientist at SickKids, University Professor and Professor in the Departments of Paediatrics and Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto, holder of the Anne and Max Tannenbaum Chair in Molecular Medicine, and Erclik’s other co-supervisor. “Genes that are likely to be associated with inherited blindness.” The study was funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Foundation for Fighting Blindness in Canada, Canada Research Chairs Program, the National Science Foundation of the USA (which funded their collaborator, UCLA professor Volker Hartenstein), and the SickKids Foundation. The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), affiliated with the University of Toronto, is Canada's most research-intensive hospital and the largest centre dedicated to improving children's health in the country. As innovators in child health, SickKids improves the health of children by integrating care, research and teaching. Our mission is to provide the best in complex and specialized care by creating scientific and clinical advancements, sharing our knowledge and expertise and championing the development of an accessible, comprehensive and sustainable child health system. For more information, please visit www.sickkids.ca. SickKids is committed to healthier children for a better world. http://www.sickkids.ca/mediaroom/custom/erclik08.asp … read more>>

Sep. 08, 2008 - Seeing eye to eye with…the fly?
Seeing eye to eye with…the fly? SickKids scientists confirm common ancestry of the eyes in humans and flies Toronto - Scientists at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) have established that despite our many differences, the genes that control the development of eyes in humans and flies are remarkably similar. This research, published in the September 9, 2008 issue of the journal Current Biology, suggests that the eyes of invertebrates (such as fruit flies) and vertebrates (such as humans) have a common ancestry. “This work is exciting because it suggests that our eyes and the eyes of the fruit fly, though they appear very different, share a common evolutionary history,” says Ted Erclik, a graduate student in the Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program at SickKids and at the Department of Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto, and the study’s lead author. “Our last common ancestor would have already contained a visual system with photoreceptors and the downstream neurons that connect the eyes to the brain.” Thanks in part to the powerful genetic tools available in the fruit fly, its eye has been an important research model for the study of human eye development and disease. Using the fly eye model, researchers compared the two visual systems and found many striking commonalities. Erclik’s study establishes that the common ancestor had a primitive visual system, which included photoreceptors (photosensitive cells which convert light into electrical impulses), as well as other nerves (interneurons and projection neurons), that connect the eye to the brain. “Ted's work beautifully demonstrates the power of genetic research on relatively simple animals such as the fruit fly, and how this can lead to unexpected insights into humans,” says Dr. Howard Lipshitz, Senior Scientist at SickKids, professor and Chair of the Department of Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto, Canada Research Chair in Developmental Biology, and Erclik’s co-supervisor. “Combining this understanding with prior research in Dr. Roderick McInnes' laboratory on these genes in mice and humans, we have gained a greater understanding of the genetic pathways, defects in which lead to blindness.” “The remarkable similarity in the regulation of eye development in flies and humans means that we can use the fly system to quickly identify other important genes that control human eye formation,” says Dr. McInnes, Senior Scientist at SickKids, University Professor and Professor in the Departments of Paediatrics and Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto, holder of the Anne and Max Tannenbaum Chair in Molecular Medicine, and Erclik’s other co-supervisor. “Genes that are likely to be associated with inherited blindness.” The study was funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Foundation Fighting Blindness in Canada, Canada Research Chairs Program, the National Science Foundation of the USA (which funded their collaborator, UCLA professor Volker Hartenstein), and the SickKids Foundation. The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), affiliated with the University of Toronto, is Canada's most research-intensive hospital and the largest centre dedicated to improving children's health in the country. As innovators in child health, SickKids improves the health of children by integrating care, research and teaching. Our mission is to provide the best in complex and specialized care by creating scientific and clinical advancements, sharing our knowledge and expertise and championing the development of an accessible, comprehensive and sustainable child health system. For more information, please visit www.sickkids.ca. SickKids is committed to healthier children for a better world. http://www.sickkids.ca/mediaroom/custom/erclik08.asp … read more>>

Sep. 07, 2008 - Once-Weekly Diabetes Drug Boosts Blood Sugar Control
Once-Weekly Diabetes Drug Boosts Blood Sugar Control Sun Sep 7, 7:01 PM ET SUNDAY, Sept. 7 (HealthDay News) -- A new once-a-week formulation of the injectable diabetes drug Byetta controls blood sugar even better than the older twice-a-day formulation, researchers report. if(window.yzq_d==null)window.yzq_d=new Object(); window.yzq_d['RAZCANG_fyo-']='&U=13f1oq16g%2fN%3dRAZCANG_fyo-%2fC%3d692555.12962450.13189339.6052652%2fD%3dLREC%2fB%3d5411575%2fV%3d1'; "Besides obvious improved ease of use, [the new formulation] provided the remarkable advantage of both improved efficacy on glucose control and good gastrointestinal tolerability," said Dr. Andre Scheen of the University of Liege in Belgium, in a commentary accompanying the study's publication online Sunday in The Lancet. The study, led by Dr. Daniel Drucker of Mount Sinai Hospital and the University of Toronto, Canada, is also slated for presentation Sunday at The European Association for the Study of Diabetes meeting, in Rome. The findings, while encouraging, come on the heels of less-heartening news about Byetta (exenatide). On Aug. 26, the drug's makers, Eli Lilly and Amylin Pharmaceuticals Inc., reported the pancreatitis-linked deaths of four people who'd been taking the medication. That news came a week after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said that two Byetta users had died of acute pancreatitis, a condition that can cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. While Byetta use has not been confirmed as a causative factor in these deaths, the FDA has noted an association between Byetta use and pancreatitis, and on Aug. 18 announced it was working on stronger labeling for the injected drug, which has been used by more than 700,000 people since being approved in June 2005. The new study involved 259 patients with type 2 diabetes who received 30-week courses of either 2 milligrams of long-acting release Byetta given once weekly, or 10 microgram doses given twice a day. Researchers monitored blood sugar control via levels of hemoglobin A1C in the blood (HbA1C), which averaged 8.3 percent at the start of the study. According to the researchers, HbA1C levels fell to a mean of 6.4 percent among the Byetta once-weekly group, versus 6.8 percent for those on the twice-daily regimen. More patients on the weekly dose achieved a target Hb1AC level of 7 percent (77 percent) than those on the twice-a-day regimen (61 percent). Overall, the once-a-week formulation provided patients with better blood sugar control than the twice-daily regimen, the authors wrote, "with no increased risk of hypoglycaemia and similar reductions in body weight." The findings echo those from a similar study reported June 10 at the American Diabetes Association meeting in San Francisco. In their year-long study of 295 type 2 diabetics, researchers at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, found that 74 percent of all participants achieved an HbAIC level of 7 percent or less -- regardless of whether they received Byetta once a week or twice daily. … read more>>

Sep. 05, 2008 - Henkelman receives NCIC's cancer research award
Henkelman receives NCIC's cancer research award September 5, 2008 Dr. Mark Henkelman has been awarded a National Cancer Institute of Canada (NCIC) Award of Excellence in Cancer Research. He is the 2008 recipient of the Robert L. Nobel prize in recognition of his achievements in cancer research. Henkelman, Director, Mouse Imaging Facility and Senior Scientist, Physiology & Experimental Medicine, Toronto Centre for Phenogenomics (TCP) and Professor, Medical Biophysics and Medical Imaging at U of T, received his award at a ceremony on Friday September 5, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Hollywood Theatre. The Robert L Nobel prize is in honour of Dr. Nobel, a Canadian investigator whose research in the 1950s led to the discovery of vincristine, a widely-used, anti-cancer drug. At the time, vincristine was one of the most effective treatments available for Hodgkin’s disease. http://www.sickkids.ca/mediaroom/custom/henkelman08.asp … read more>>

Sep. 02, 2008 - ERA supports SickKids safety scientist
ERA supports SickKids safety scientist September 2, 2008 A demanding schedule may be part of the job for health-care professionals, yet the number of hours on duty can affect performance and become a factor in the delivery of care. A $100,000 Early Researcher Award (ERA) from Ontario’s Ministry of Research and Innovation will help SickKids scientist Dr. Christopher Parshuram address this human resource question. Across North America there have been limited high-quality data on the optimal work schedule for health-care professionals. Parshuram’s measurement of timely access to critical care services – central to wait times initiatives – and evaluation of methods to reduce fatigue, will provide Canadian data that will inform decisions, reduce error and strengthen the training environment. Improving the system and the way we care for critically ill patients can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life. News from SickKids … read more>>

Aug. 28, 2008 - Parkinson's Disease: Targeting Stimulation for Movement Control
Parkinson's Disease: Targeting Stimulation for Movement Control Aug 28, 2008 New findings from TWRI researchers have outlined changes in blood flow in response to deep brain stimulation (DBS) to the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN)--a region of the brain involved in controlling posture and behavioral states such as wakefulness and rapid eye movement sleep--and its effect on patients with Parkinson's disease. Using imaging technology to map the changes in blood flow to this region during and following DBS, UHN researchers Drs. Antonio Strafella, Andres Lozano, Anthony Lang, Elena Moro and Dr. Ballanger examined a patient with advanced Parkinson's disease and found that changes in cerebral blood flow to this movement centre caused significant positive changes in behavior, including a 20% improvement in motor function. "This is the first time we've been able to show that stimulating the PPN with DBS may be able to change blood flow to the region, significantly improving symptoms," says study lead Dr. Strafella. "This is a significant finding for many patients because with continued studies, this may be applicable across many movement disorders." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Aug. 28, 2008 - U of T discovery yields new hope for Fragile X syndrome treatment
U of T discovery yields new hope for Fragile X syndrome treatment Thursday, August 28, 2008 Researchers at the Faculty of Medicine have uncovered a new link between the neurotransmitter dopamine and the genetic variation that causes the mental impairment known as Fragile X syndrome, raising hope for new treatments for the little-known neuropsychiatric disorder. In a paper published Aug. 28 in the journal Neuron, a team led by Professor Min Zhuo of physiology, details the transmitter dopamine's interaction with the protein that causes Fragile X. The paper, entitled FMRP acts as a key messenger for dopamine modulations in the forebrain, suggests dopamine moderation may provide a new therapy for the disorder. Fragile X is an inherited condition characterized by anxiety, attention deficit, hyperactivity, social skill impairment and behaviours similar to autism. According to the Fragile X Research Foundation of Canada, it is the most common inherited form of mental impairment, affecting one in 2,000 males and one in 4,000 females. Most people who are affected by Fragile X have not been properly diagnosed, the organization says. Fragile X is caused by a genetic mutation that triggers a lack of what is known as the Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). Dopamine plays a critical role in cognitive functions and neuropsychiatric pathology, including learning and memory, decision making, attention and motor function. Zhuo's team examined the interaction between dopamine and FMRP in mouse models and found that FMRP acts as a key intracellular messenger for dopamine receptors. The researchers treated mice lacking FMRP with drugs that activated dopamine receptors and they noticed a significant improvement in behavioural functions. In short, the research suggests if dopamine is controlled, some of Fragile X's effect on patients may be reversed. "By activating dopamine receptors, we found that some behaviours in the mouse model of Fragile X disease can be repaired or improved. So this suggests dopamine-related drugs could work as a treatment for patients with Fragile X syndrome," Zhuo said. "A dopamine drug that interferes with FMRP signalling pathways may help to treat dopamine-related mental disorders such as Fragile X." "This work has opened up the door on a potentially new therapeutic target for future treatment of Fragile X," said Dr. Carlo Paribello, president and medical director of the Fragile X Research Foundation, which funded the research. Among the contributors to this paper were leading post-doctoral fellow Hansen Wang (physiology) and Professor Fang Liu (psychiatry and Centre for Addiction and Mental Health). The article can be downloaded at www.neuron.org. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/u-of-t-discovery-yields-new-hope-for-fragile-x-syndrome-treatment.html … read more>>

Aug. 21, 2008 - Prostate Cancer: Evaluating Hospital & Sugeon Volume Impact
Prostate Cancer: Evaluating Hospital & Sugeon Volume Impact Aug 21, 2008 Radical prostatectomy (RP), a common treatment for localized cancer, has excellent long-term disease control. However, a UHN-led initiative is exploring how common short-term complications are affected by factors such as high hospital and surgeon volume, and how these can be modified to benefit patients. TGRI leads Drs. Shabbir Alibhai and George Tomlinson examined in-hospital mortality and complications across eight Canadian provinces between 1990 and 2001 in patients following RP representing more than 72% of the population. Through statistical modeling, it was found that lower rates of most in-hospital complications following RP are associated with higher hospital and surgeon volumes. Notes Dr. Alibhai, "Our study also provides additional evidence to support the fact that increasing age and comorbidity are associated with higher mortality and complication following RP. Future studies will focus on relationships between surgical volumes and long-term complications as these also are very important to patients." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Aug. 20, 2008 - Landmark Funding Awarded to UHN
Landmark Funding Awarded to UHN Aug 20, 2008 On August 20, 2008, Dr. Eliot Phillipson, President and CEO of the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) announced the investment of $119.9M towards UHN's Advanced Therapeutics Research Platform. The award--the largest in UHN's history--includes $92.3M in new funding towards construction projects at Venus/TWRI, OCI and TGRI. It will fund significant new equipment across the seven research themes including signaling, clinical studies, stem cells, medical imaging, immunity, biomarkers and drug discovery programs. "This is fantastic news for all of UHN," says UHN CEO Dr. Bob Bell. "This new investment by CFI will provide a further important boost to UHN's global impact. It will allow our research community to establish critical new resources that will transform healthcare for our patients, our community and the world." "The award is a tribute to the internationally recognized strength of UHN's researchers and research programs," notes Dr. Christopher Paige, VP Research, UHN. "It represents a unique opportunity to create pioneering research platforms integrated across UHN's labs and clinics. On behalf of UHN I offer our thanks to the researchers and staff who developed the winning proposal." In addition, CFI announced a contribution of $27.6M in institutional operating funding related to the award. Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Aug. 19, 2008 - Second Annual TorontoTechWeek Unites One of the Largest Technology Communit
Second Annual TorontoTechWeek Unites One of the Largest Technology Communities in North America Toronto, ON – August 19, 2008 – The second annual TorontoTechWeek, which provides an opportunity to showcase, promote and network with information and communication technology (ICT) professionals while raising awareness of the Toronto region’s ICT strengths, is set to open its doors this September. · When: September 22 to 26 · Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre and other GTA locations · Tickets: Available at TorontoTechWeek.com IT managers, developers, CTOs, CIOs, CEOs, entrepreneurs, the investment community and marketing and HR professionals will be able to connect at more than 20 TorontoTechWeek and partner events. Speaker highlights for this year’s conference include IT and business visionary, David Ticoll, who will discuss the changing landscape of talent and how it affects businesses at all levels and Richard McDonald, technical executive and distinguished IT architect, IBM, whose keynote will address the explosion of new Web 2.0 content and what it all means to your enterprise. More than 2,000 people from Toronto and around the world are expected to attend TTW. The week is being coordinated by an industry alliance and committee formed by public and private sector stakeholders, including the City of Toronto, The Government of Ontario, KPMG LLP, IBM and many other organizations in the Toronto Region. Quotes “The technology industry represents a prime growth opportunity for the GTA and for Canada; we stand to be recognized on the global stage as a leader, both of innovation and of technology adoption,” says Brendan Maher, partner, KPMG LLP Canada. “TorontoTechWeek represents an annual meeting place where all stakeholders, particularly those in the GTA, can come together to meet, share knowledge and build businesses. We’re proud to help make that happen.” "I know the organizers have worked hard to provide a thought-provoking and thoroughly engaging week of exciting activities and events," says Mayor David Miller. "I hope you will join with me and with many of your colleagues as we support and celebrate all that TechWeek has to offer in 2008." “The Toronto technology story, the one about a thriving, vibrant GTA technology industry has never really been told on a larger scale,” says Dave Forde, chairman of TorontoTechnologyWeek. “TorontoTechnologyWeek is all about business development, education, and networking within our community. But, we also want to raise awareness for all the great entrepreneurship and technology innovation coming from the Toronto Region.” More Information TorontoTechWeek 2008 builds on the success of last year’s inaugural conference, which drew over 2,000 participants to venues throughout the GTA and includes programs such as: · Competing Priorities for IT · The Corporate Adoption of Web 2.0 · Software As A Service · Entrepreneurial Summit: Start It Up (and Keep it Going) · Talent Management and Career Day · Future Forward: Internet 2010 · TorontoTechWeek Party Additional keynote speakers include: Sharif Khan of Microsoft Canada, Barry Libert of Mzinga, Brent Lowe-Bernie of comScore, Ross Mayfield of SocialText, Vinay Nair of IDC, Julie Schlack of Communispace and Mark Smith of KPMG LLP. Further details about the speakers can be found at TorontoTechWeek.com. TorontoTechWeek’s founding sponsors are the City of Toronto and KPMG LLP. Additional sponsors include IBM, ThinData, The Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, Onestop Media Group, High Road Communications and Workopolis as well as media sponsors ITWorld Canada, Canadian HR Reporter and The Globe and Mail. About TorontoTechWeek TorontoTechWeek is an annual industry-wide initiative that showcases Toronto as one of the largest, most innovative, and fastest growing Information & Communications Technology (ICT) markets in North America. During TorontoTechWeek, ICT leaders, professionals and investors come together to promote and foster partnerships, employment, investment, education and new business. Throughout September 22 – 26, 2008, industry associations and businesses will deliver a schedule of world-class events to address the needs and interests of entrepreneurs, executives, senior managers, investors, marketers, and IT professionals associated with the ICT sector. For more information, or to register, please visit www.torontotechweek.com. For more information, please contact: Greg Vallentin High Road Communications 416-644-2268 gvallentin@highroad.com … read more>>

Aug. 18, 2008 - Zandstra receives prestigious McLean Award
Zandstra receives prestigious McLean Award Monday, August 18, 2008 Professor Peter Zandstra of the Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering is the recipient of the 2008 McLean Award, the university's prestigious award for early-career researchers. Zandstra has established himself -- at a relatively young age -- as a world leader in the field of stem cell engineering, an emerging field that aims to heal or regenerate damaged or nonfunctioning organs and tissues. He works at the interface of biology and engineering, applying bioengineering to stem cell research. His goal is to develop new techniques for stem cell therapies, aiming for clinically relevant therapies. "Professor Zandstra is an exceptionally talented and innovative researcher. He is conducting vital work that could improve the lives of people all over the world," said Professor Paul Young, vice-president (research). "External reviewers of his application were unanimous in expressing deep admiration for the creative and important work he has done -- and confidence in his potential to continue conducting first-rate research. Congratulations!" The McLean Award is funded jointly by a gift from U of T alumnus William McLean and U of T's Connaught Fund. The $100,000 award is for researchers within 12 years of their PhD who are conducting work in physics, chemistry, computer science, engineering sciences or statistics. It is meant to help researchers attract promising graduate students and post-doctoral fellows to their labs. Zandstra is cross-appointed chemical engineering and applied chemistry and holds the Canada Research Chair in stem cell engineering. http://www.news.utoronto.ca/health-and-medicine/zandstra-receives-prestigious-mclean-award.html … read more>>

Aug. 14, 2008 - Psoriatic Arthritis: Classifying the Role of Family
Psoriatic Arthritis: Classifying the Role of Family Aug 14, 2008 The relationship between the skin disease psoriasis and the chronic inflammatory joint disease, psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a complicated one. Studies into PsA and uncomplicated psoriasis are providing key information about the role heredity may play in this type of arthritis which causes inflammation and pain in the joints as well as a scaly rash on the skin. TWRI study lead Dr. Dafna Gladman and colleagues from the Psoriatic Arthritis Program, in the Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, recruited 100 PsA patients and all available first degree relatives to test for the presence of PsA using a screening questionnaire, clinical examination and laboratory tests. "To really understand if genetics play a role in this disease, we need to first carefully look at close relatives of PsA patients, specifically full siblings, parents, and children," notes Dr. Gladman. The group found a strong heritable or family risk for PsA: 7.6% and 15.2% prevalence of PsA and psoriasis in first degree relatives, increasing to 7.7% for PsA and 17.7% for psoriasis in siblings. These numbers translate into a risk ratio for PsA of 30 for any first degree relatives and siblings. The risk for psoriasis was 7.6 in family members and 8.8 in siblings. Says Dr. Gladman, "Because we've used family members, we can't discount how environment affects disease development and future studies will need to take a hard look at this as well." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Aug. 07, 2008 - Hepatitis B: Examining New Therapeutic Approaches
Hepatitis B: Examining New Therapeutic Approaches Aug 07, 2008 For chronic hepatitis B patients who are no longer responsive to lamivudine--the currently accepted treatment option--findings from a TGRI-led international study of the drug entecavir point to a new therapy option that lowers the levels of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA. To determine the efficacy, safety and resistance of entecavir in non-responsive lamivudine patients, study lead Dr. Morris Sherman and colleagues recruited a total of 286 patients and assigned them to one of two treatment groups. By the end of the first year of study, the proportion of patients in the entecavir group with clinically significant decreased levels of HBV DNA increased from 65% to 81% and remained consistent throughout the second year of the study. "Second year findings show that patients continue to benefit from entecavir without any major safety concerns and that this treatment holds real promise for patients no longer responsive to lamivudine," says Dr. Sherman. "For patients with very high baseline levels of HBV DNA, treatment response with entecavir may be heightened by combining it with other antivirals." Find this story on the web at: www@uhnresearch.ca … read more>>

Aug. 04, 2008 - SickKids scientists demonstrate link between DNA copy number changes and ca
SickKids scientists demonstrate link between DNA copy number changes and cancer risk: August 4, 2008 Discovery may lead to the early identification of individuals who are predisposed to developing cancer Toronto – Scientists at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) have discovered a link between a newly discovered form of inherited genetic alteration, termed DNA copy number variation (CNV), and cancer susceptibility. This work, published online in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) , is the first to demonstrate the link between germline (the genetic material that may be passed from parent to child) CNVs of DNA and cancer. A team of scientists led by Dr. David Malkin, staff physician in the Division of Hematology/Oncology, and senior scientist at SickKids, and professor in the Departments of Paediatrics and Medical Biophysics at the University of Toronto , conducted an extensive analysis of DNA from families with a rare disease called Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) which causes susceptibility to cancer. They found that an excess of CNVs was directly associated with the development of cancer in patients. CNVs, which involve the duplication or deletion of large segments of DNA, had previously been shown to occur in cancer cells themselves. This study demonstrates that CNVs also exist in the blood DNA of LFS patients, and may be passed down from one generation to the next. LFS is a hereditary disease with an increased risk of developing cancer in childhood and early adulthood. LFS patients carry a mutation in the Tumour Protein 53 (TP53) gene, which normally functions to maintain the stability of the genome. As a result of this TP53 mutation, patients are susceptible to many different kinds of tumours, including breast, brain, blood, bone and soft tissue cancers. LFS becomes more severe with each passing generation, with the afflicted offspring usually developing cancers earlier than their parents. The unpredictability and severity in the types of cancer experienced in LFS have led to suspicions that other genetic changes are required in addition to mutated TP53. “Oncologists are in need of better tools to help identify children at a high risk of developing cancer,” says Malkin. “Our use of new high-resolution techniques allowed us to discover that these genetic changes, which we had always thought only existed in tumours, can also be found in the patient's blood.” The application of this technology is already poised for clinical use to allow routine patient screening in this type of inherited cancer,