Krembil Neuroscience Centre (KNC)

Neurodegenerative Disorders - Research

Milestones/Innovations

Performed the first deep brain stimulation in Canada to effectively control Parkinson's symptoms. (Dr. Andres Lozano, 1994)
First in the world to identify two genes responsible for familial Alzheimer’s disease. (Dr. Peter St. George Hyslop, 1995)
Identified a key protein (nicastrin) that causes nerve cell degeneration. (2000)
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (co-ordinates automatic movements) to improve motor skills and ability to perform tasks of daily living in Parkinson’s disease patients. (2001)
First in the world to deduce the structure of a molecular complex in the brain involved in many functions including memory and learning. (2002)
Identified a protein called sonic hedgehog as a new therapeutic target for Parkinson’s. (2003)
In conjunction with nine centres around the world, conducted the first ever clinical trials using positron emission tomography (PET) to assess progression of Parkinson’s disease over two years. (2003)
Discovered that high levels of the protein BAG5 inhibit the actions of the parkin gene and are a cause of neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease. (2004)
Discovered of a gene (DJ-1) that protects dopamine-producing neurons in the brain from damage caused by unstable molecules. (2005)

Current Research

Basic science research includes investigations into:

Clinical science research includes investigations into:

Quality of life and disease management
Innovative drug therapies
Vitamin E for Down Syndrome subjects at risk for Alzheimer’s Disease
Functional neurosurgical treatments including deep brain stimulation and pallidotomy
Neuropsychological disturbances accompanying Parkinson’s
Therapeutic agents helping symtomatology and slowing progression)
Pallidotomy
Evaluation of complications of drug treatments
Fundamental mechanisms of the disease

For more information on research at the Krembil Neuroscience Centre, visit the Toronto Western Research Institute.