All laboratory projects require and utilize a multidisciplinary approach, ranging from behavioral models to cellular events, involving the latest technology.

Neuroimmune actions of leptin in infection and inflammation
Funding: Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC)

The main goal of this research program is to study the role of the appetite- regulating hormone leptin as a neuroimmune mediator of infection and inflammation. This work was based on our novel findings that leptin, in addition to being an appetite suppressant, is also a potent pyrogen that induces fever though direct action on the central nervous system through interaction with pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Maternal infection and cytokine mediated neurodevelopmental defects in schizophrenia
Funding: Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation (CPRF), National Alliance for Research on Schizophrenia and Depression (NARSAD)

This project was designed to investigate how maternal infection during pregnancy can impact on the normal development of the fetal brain during gestation and how this can lead to mental health problems, such as schizophrenia, in adult offspring. In particular, our work focuses on the role of cytokines as possible mediators of these neurodevelopmental defects.
Joint project with Patricia Boksa, Ph.D.

Role of pro-inflammatory cytokines in neuronal development and synaptic transmission
Funding: Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)

The goal of this project is to elucidate cellular events occurring during brain inflammation, with a particular focus on the role of cytokines in this process.
Joint project with Sylvain Williams, Ph.D.

In addition to these specific projects, the laboratory is a partner in a CIHR-funded Neuroinflammation Training Program that encompasses a number of activities focused on studies in neuroinflammation. This program includes annual workshops, courses, and a seminar series - all of which are oriented towards student training. The program also provides fellowships for students from participating laboratories.