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Developmental & Stem Cell Biology
We're pushing the boundaries of stem cell biology. We're focused on understanding molecular genetic mechanisms affecting embryonic development, organ formation, tissue homeostasis and regeneration.
The Developmental & Stem Cell Biology program is making an impact on paediatric health-care by translating our research into treatments for associated developmental disorders like childhood cancer, birth defects, and other paediatric diseases. We continue to develop new therapeutic approaches for children and youth through a better grasp of developmental genetics, genomics, and stem cell biology.
Research team
Program head Dr. Brian Ciruna and the scientists that lead DSCB labs and core facilities are supported by over 225 graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, research associates, technicians, and administrative staff.
You'll find our lab work regularly published in top peer-reviewed medical and scientific journals. Our scientists and trainees receive consistent funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), March of Dimes Foundation, Canada Research Chairs, NIH, Genome Canada, Canada Foundation for Innovation, and several other national and international organizations, illustrating the importance and impact of DSCB research.
We always welcome new trainees and staff that are eager to improve the health outcomes of children through cutting-edge biomedical research.
- Dr. Herman Yeger
- Dr. Ben Alman
- Dr. Rodrigo Fernandez-Gonzalez
Program Manager
Dr. Najeeb Siddiqui
Administrative Assistants
- Vidya Rambali
- Janice Cheng
- Tirhas Okubazghi
- Nalma Uy
- Celeste Alora
- Meera Kamal
- Michelle Turpin
June 13, 2024
Genetically altering proteins could inform treatment development for children with epilepsy
By genetically altering specific proteins, scientists may be able to restore functions associated with variations in the PTEN gene and provide treatment options for neurodevelopmental conditions.
March 13, 2024
SickKids-led projects receive $17.9 million from the Canada Foundation for Innovation
The funding will support SickKids research into understanding memory formation, increasing genomics capacity in Canada and advancing precision child health.
February 29, 2024
Overcoming barriers to conducting clinical trials in childhood rare disease research
SickKids researchers use novel approach to show that a medication reduces the rate of liver disease progression in children with Alagille syndrome.
Genetic models of human development and disease
We utilize diverse experimental organisms in their research, including C. elegans, D. melanogaster, zebrafish, planaria, and mice. By developing genetic models of numerous human diseases and cancer, we provide an unmatched platform for interrogating pathogenic mechanisms and performing genetic modifier and therapeutic drug screens.
Mechanisms of tissue patterning and organ development
Developmental signaling pathways – including BMP, Hh, FGF, Notch, TGFb, PCP, and Wnt, – play key roles in pattern formation and organogenesis. We examine the roles of these signaling pathways, as well as other regulatory factors in the development of diverse tissues and organs (e.g. blood, bone, brain, heart, gut, kidney, limb, lung, and skin).
Molecular regulation of cell fate decision, cell differentiation and cell death
We aim to answer a fundamental question in developmental biology - How do cells adopt their fate? Our team studies molecular switches that regulate a cell's fate, as well as mechanisms that program cells to die.
Stem cell biology, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
We study the molecular genetic regulation of stem cell states, including embryonic, induced pluripotent, cancer, and multiple tissue stem cell models. Stem cells offer tremendous potential for repair and/or regeneration of damaged tissues and organs. We unlock how stem cells and organoids can be used in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, such as spinal cord injury and bladder regeneration.
Browse a list of DSCB labs to learn more about the exciting research taking place in our program.
Centre for Advanced Single Cell Analysis
CASCA provides comprehensive training and expert consultation services to enable researchers to use the Fluidigm Helios Mass Cytometry (CyTOF), Fluidigm Hyperion Imaging Mass Cytometry (IMC) and BD Rhapsody single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) platforms.
Flow Cytometry Facility
The FCF provides academic and corporate clients access to state-of-the-art analytical flow cytometers and high-speed cell sorting services. It offers comprehensive training and education as well as expert consultation services to enable users to enhance the scope and quality of their research using the FCF's technology.
Contact
Najeeb Siddiqui, Research Program Manager
686 Bay St, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4
416-813-6382