COVID graphic

CIHR funding for COVID-19 enables researchers to investigate virus transmission during surgery and pandemic planning

Researchers in London received more than $400,000 in funding 

Researchers at Western University and Lawson Health Research Institute continue to make important contributions to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and its negative consequences. Two projects in London will address virus transmission during surgery and pandemic planning for COVID-19, thanks to new funding announced by the Government of Canada, through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), along with provincial partners.

Dr. Douglas Fraser

Dr. Douglas Fraser, Lawson Scientist and Critical Care Physician at London Health Sciences Centre

Researchers first in world to profile the body’s immune response to COVID-19

By studying blood samples from critically ill patients at London Health Sciences Centre, the research team identified a unique pattern of six molecules that could be used as therapeutic targets to treat the virus.

London Health Sciences Centre - 

The virus that causes COVID-19 grows and replicates within cells, particularly the cells of the respiratory system. Research is showing that part of what makes the virus so deadly is that the body mounts an overreactive immune response as the virus grows and replicates. This response releases inflammatory molecules in order to fight the virus, but also destroys healthy cells and organs in the process.

Graphic showing fecal transplant and liver

Fecal transplants show promise as treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

A new study from Lawson Health Research Institute and Western University suggests that fecal transplants could be used as a treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). 

St. Joseph's Hospital - 

A new study from Lawson Health Research Institute and Western University suggests that fecal transplants could be used as a treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The randomized controlled trial published in The American Journal of Gastroenterology found that fecal transplants in patients with NAFLD result in a reduction in how easily pathogens and other unwanted molecules pass through the human gut and into circulation, known as intestinal permeability.

Pages