To reflect an expanding research focus and growing recognition of the interconnected nature of neurological conditions, today marks the transition to the Division of Neurodegenerative and Neurodevelopmental Disorders (DNND). This change underscores a commitment to understanding and addressing neurological diseases that affect individuals at both the beginning and later stages of life.
With Dr. Paul Fernyhough as Director, this team has long been at the forefront of groundbreaking neuroscience and pharmacology research. With a strong commitment to innovation, technical diversity, and scientific excellence, it has developed into a thriving training program, dedicated to cultivating highly qualified researchers, including undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows to meet the increasing global demand for expertise in pharmacology, neuroscience and nutrition.
Why This Expansion?
Neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems represent critical challenges at opposite ends of the lifespan. Neurodevelopmental disorders emerge early in life, disrupting cognitive, motor, and social development, while neurodegenerative diseases manifest later, progressively impairing function and independence. Both conditions profoundly impact individuals and their families and place immense financial burdens on healthcare systems. With the rising prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders due to improved diagnostics and the increasing incidence of neurodegenerative diseases driven by an aging population, these disorders are receiving priority funding from governments and research agencies to advance understanding, treatment, and care.
St. Boniface Hospital Research established a dedicated neurodegenerative disorders research team in 1999 to uncover mechanisms underlying diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease, neuropathy, retinopathy, psychiatric illness, and aging-related CNS degeneration. Additionally, the research focuses on the impact of diabetes on these conditions and explores novel nutritional approaches to prevention and treatment.
The expanded research now includes investigating neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), anxiety disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and epilepsy. These additions strengthen our mission to bridge the gap between neurological conditions affecting individuals from infancy through old age, advancing discoveries that will shape the future of neuroscience and pharmacological interventions.
The DNND team looks forward to continuing its work with the scientific community, funding agencies, the St. Boniface Hospital foundation and healthcare organizations as we advance our understanding of neurological diseases and improve patient outcomes across all life stages.