TORONTO, October 16, 2001 -- The R. Samuel McLaughlin Foundation has given a boost to functional genome research with a $1 million cash gift to the Faculty of Pure and Applied Science at York University that will advance work on the next phase of discovery -- translating genome information into practical applications.
York scientists have already taken the first critical steps in obtaining functional information from genome sequences, such as what proteins are made in both normal and diseased cell development and how they work. Ron Pearlman, a biochemist and molecular biologist, and professor of biology, is a member of the research team spearheading initiatives in functional genomics. "Much has been achieved by mapping genomes, but deciphering the code is not enough if you don't understand how the genetic information is being used by the cell," said Pearlman, director of York's Core Molecular Biology facility and a member of an international steering committee on whole genome sequencing.
"This funding will help us build the knowledge base and attract the personnel needed for translating genome information into useful health applications," said Gillian Wu, Dean of the Faculty of Pure and Applied Science. "We have strong, interdisciplinary scientists at York focused on studying biological structure and function, and genome research. We are grateful to the McLaughlin Foundation for their support."
The team is working to establish a national research and teaching institute at York in functional genomics focused on studies of biological structure that include:
- protein identification using mass spectrometry
- determination of protein structure using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
- cellular imaging using microscopy in all its forms to identify structures and their molecular associations at the cellular and sub-cellular levels
- design of specific protein inhibitors (potential drugs) using methods of combinatorial chemistry
Also among the York team are:
Michael Siu, professor of chemistry, the NSERC/MDS SCIEX Industrial Chair in Analytical Mass Spectrometry, and director of the York Centre for Research in Mass Spectrometry. Siu is a pioneer in mass spectrometry techniques critical for protein identification.
Sylvie Morin, assistant professor of chemistry, recipient of the Petro-Canada Young Innovator Award, and Canada Research Chair in the emerging field of nanotechnology and surface chemistry.
Logan Donaldson, assistant professor in the Department of Biology, accomplished in the use of nuclear magnetic resonance methods to identify protein structures and protein-protein interactions with applications in studies of gene regulation and of signaling pathways in cells.
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For further information, please contact:
| Ron Pearlman | Susan Bigelow |
| Director | Media Relations |
| Core Molecular Biology Centre | York University |
| York University | 416-736-2100, ext. 22091 |
| 416-736-5241 or 416-736-5481 | sbigelow@yorku.ca |
| ronp@yorku.ca |
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