Honey bees

Andrew Pitek at experimental apiary at Western University

Using probiotics to protect honey bees against fatal disease

A group of researchers at Western and Lawson combined their expertise in probiotics and bee biology to supplement honey bee food with probiotics, in the form a BioPatty, in their experimental apiaries. The aim was to see what effect probiotics would have on honey bee health.

Western University - 

Probiotics, beneficial microorganisms best known for promoting gut health in humans, are now being used by Western University and Lawson Health Research Institute scientists to save honey bee colonies from collapse. A new study published in the Nature journal ISME J demonstrates how probiotics could potentially stave off a common bacterial hive infestation called American Foulbrood.

PSMA-PET Scan

Study gives Ontario men access to advanced prostate cancer imaging

A multi-centre registry trial is testing the use of a new imaging tracer for early detection of recurrent prostate cancer. The registry gives patients access to a new type of imaging and will assess the impact on patient care.

St. Joseph's Hospital - 

Prostate cancer can be elusive.

Wayne Smith’s journey with prostate cancer began 16 years ago when his family physician noticed increasing levels of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in his blood. PSA is a protein expressed by the prostate. A blood test is used to monitor levels of the protein as a screening tool for prostate cancer.

Researchers developing photoacoustic hand-held probe for tumour detection during breast conserving surgery

New technology will improve surgery outcomes and reduce time in the operating room for patients with breast cancer

St. Joseph's Hospital - 

Researchers at Lawson Health Research Institute (Lawson) are developing a hand-held photoacoustic imaging probe to be used during breast conserving surgery to quickly and accurately verify if all cancerous tissue has been removed.

Surgeons currently do not have real-time technology to guide tumour removal during surgery.

Using current tools, there is a 20 per cent chance that cancerous cells will be left behind, risking recurrence and repeat surgery.

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