Timeline of Research Achievements & Featured Articles
2025
Promising New Treatment to Prevent Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis
Exciting new research, led by a global team including Dick Menzies and Andrea Benedetti has shown that the antibiotic levofloxacin could significantly reduce the risk of MDR-TB. Fox et al., N Engl J Med. 2024 Dec 19;391(24):2304-2314.
Wearables: A Game Changer for COPD Care
New study by Bryan Ross shows how wearable technologies can revolutionize the management of COPD by monitoring symptoms at home to identify patters that predict recovery or worsening of COPD exacerbations. Coutu et al. EBioMedicine. 2024 Dec;110:105472.
2024
Gut Fungus: A Hidden Ally in Fighting Parasites
Work by Irah King and collaborators uncovered a previously unknown role of fungi in shaping intestinal immunity. The discovery of Kazachstania pintolopesii (Kp), a commensal yeast in mice, highlights how fungal residents of the gut microbiome can influence immune responses to parasitic worms, offering potential new strategies for treating infections and immune disorders. Liao et al., Nature. 2024 Dec;636(8043):697-704.
Natural defense mechanism activates during pregnancy to protect against severe flu infections
Published in Science Advances, a study by James Martin and Maziar Divangahi reveals that pregnancy triggers a powerful immune response in the nasal cavity, blocking the Influenza A virus from spreading to the lungs, where it can cause life-threatening complications. Chronopoulos et al., Sci Adv. 2024 Sep 27;10(39):eado7087.
Nature commentary highlights scSemiProfiler, UNAGI, and CellAgentChat, new computational tools developed at the Meakins
Jun Ding’s work was recognized in the Nature Technology Features, highlighting its transformative potential for single-cell research and therapeutic discovery. These tools democratize single-cell omics, integrate AI to simulate cellular processes, and enhance the scalability of studies, addressing limitations in cost, throughput, and clinical translation. Of the seven tools featured, three were developed in the Ding Lab. Dance A. Nature. 2024 Nov;635(8039):773-775.
Smart technology brings new hope to neonatal care
The Smart Hospital Project at the Montreal Children’s Hospital (MCH) is making strides toward improving care for newborns in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) with innovative wireless technology. Launched in 2021 and led by Guilherme Sant’Anna, the project uses a wireless sensor that tracks vital signs like heart rate, breathing, and blood oxygen levels without the need for multiple electrodes.
Adolescent vaping linked to increased heart disease risk in men
Two new studies from Carolyn Baglole suggest that vaping during adolescence could lead to heart problems later in life, particularly for young men. Using laboratory models, they found that even short-term vaping affected biological processes in the lungs and increased risk factors associated with heart disease. The studies showed that daily exposure to vape aerosols caused a buildup of plaque in the heart and blood vessels, a key sign of atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Paoli et al., Open Respir Res. 2024 Sep 18;11(1):e002423. and Caruana et al., Toxicol Appl Pharmacol. 2024 Nov;492:117095.
A scalable, cost-effective solution for single-cell profiling
Jun Ding team developed a groundbreaking tool, scSemiProfiler, to make single-cell sequencing more affordable and accessible. Traditional single-cell sequencing, though highly informative, is costly, limiting its use in large studies. scSemiProfiler uses artificial intelligence to create single-cell profiles from less expensive bulk data, providing highly accurate insights at a fraction of the cost.
Introducing peanuts earlier can reduce allergy risk
Christine McCusker was part of a team of researchers that discovered an effective strategy to reduce the risk of peanut allergy: introducing peanuts into a child’s diet before the age of three. Yu et al., J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2024 Jun 12:S2213-2198(24)00626-3.
Intracellular Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an overlooked source of cystic fibrosis lung infection
A study by Dao Nguyen investigates an overlooked source of infection in the lungs of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients: intracellular Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacteria traditionally considered to be an extracellular pathogen in CF. The study suggests that the bacteria might persist intracellularly, contributing to ongoing infections. These insights could lead to new treatment strategies that target both the extracellular and intracellular presence of P. aeruginosa in CF patients. Malet et al., Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2024 Jun 15;209(12):1453-1462.
Clinical Trial Shows Benefits of Treating Undiagnosed Asthma and COPD
Nicole Ezer was part of groundbreaking clinical trial published in NEJM that shows the benefits of treating undiagnosed asthma and COPD. Treating undiagnosed asthma and COPD led to fewer healthcare visits and improve patients’ health. Aaron et al., N Engl J Med
. 2024 Jun 13;390(22):2061-2073.
Disparities in lung cancer survival rates faced by residents of Nunavik
Publication by Faiz Ahmad Khan highlights disparities in lung cancer survival rates faced by residents of Nunavik compared to those in Montreal, despite both groups receiving treatment at the MUHC. This study reinforces the need for targeted interventions to improve lung cancer survival rates among Nunavik residents and highlights the broader context of health disparities faced by Inuit populations in Canada. Chen et al., CMAJ. 2024 Feb 19;196(6):E177-E186.
BCG Vaccine Offers Cross-protection Against Influenza
Publication in Nature Immunology by Maziar Divangahi and his research team describes how Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination provides additional protection against unrelated pathogens, including influenza A viral infection. Tran et al., Nature Immunology 2024; 25(3):418-431.
2023
Focused screening of new residents is key to fight TB in Canada
Kevin Schwartzman published a study on an efficient and cost-effective way to reduce the prevalence of TB in Canada. The risk of developing TB disease is 25-50 times higher within the first two years of acquiring the infection, and 1/4 of foreign-born Canadian residents carry TB bacteria. The researcher recommend focusing prevention efforts on screening new arrivals from high-TB countries and offering preventive treatment to those infected. This approach avoids the high costs and inefficiency of widespread screening for individuals who have lived in Canada for over two years, aligning with global goals to eliminate TB.
All Airway Trees are Not Created Equal
A study by Benjamin Smith reveals that airway-to-lung size ratio is possibly the most important factor in death by lung disease. The results of this study showed that, overall, individuals with larger lungs had a higher resistance to COPD or other lung diseases. Vameghestahbanati et al., European Respiratory Journal. 2023; 61(6):2300551.
50 Years of Excellence in Respiratory Research
The Meakins-Christie Laboratories celebrate their 50th anniversary with a 2 day scientific symposium. A reception at the Maude Abbott Medical Museum opened the event. The guest list included Dr. Jonathan L. Meakins, grandson of Dr. Jonathan C. Meakins, the eminent respiratory researcher who, with his colleague Dr. Ronald Christie, lent his name to the Meakins-Christie Laboratories in 1972.
Vaping Can Cause Significant Harm to the Lungs
New research carried out in the lab of Carolyn Baglole, PhD, affirms that vaping can cause significant damage to the lungs. Even at this low level of exposure, the lung undergoes significant cellular and molecular changes. Vaping is therefore not a harmless tool to aid in smoking cessation. Been et al., FASEB J. 2023 Feb;37(2):e22732.
Prenatal Programming of Alveolar Macrophages by Neutrophils Needed for Lung Health
The Divangahi lab shows that the production of eicosanoids by neutrophils is required for reprogramming alveolar macrophages during early life in the developing lung. Furthermore, they demonstrate that in the absence of alveolar macrophage reprogramming by neutrophils, there is an increased susceptibility to LPS-induced acute lung injury, pulmonary influenza A virus and SARS-CoV-2 infections in preclinical models. Pernet et al., Nature. 2023 Feb;614(7948):530-538.
2022
Parasitic worms reprogram intestinal stem cells to evade the immune system
Irah King’s recent study reveals how parasitic worms reprogram intestinal stem cells to evade the immune system. The study that looked at the impact of helminths, parasitic worms, on the epithelial cells of the intestinal barrier. These parasites can affect the response of the epithelium’s immune system, particularly in the area where stem cells reside. Karo-Atar et al., J Exp Med. 2022 Sep 5;219(9):e20212311.
Exploring Airway Mismatches: How Upper and Lower Airways Differ in Their Role in Breathing Problems
Study by Benjamin Smith suggests that dysanapsis of the lower airway and its association with airflow obstruction is specific to the lower airway and does not extend to the upper airway. Smith et al., Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2022 Oct 1;206(7):913-917.
Associations between air pollution and lung size
New study by Jean Bourbeau and Benjamin Smith shows associations between air pollution and lung health in Canada. Individuals with smaller airways were found to have lower lung function and a higher risk of developing COPD compared to those with larger airways, despite similar exposure to air pollution. This groundbreaking finding highlights how differences in lung structure, established early in life, can amplify the harmful effects of air pollution later on in life. Bourbeau et al., Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2022 Jul 1;206(1):44-55.
BCG vaccine provides protection against influenza virus but not SARS-CoV-2
Maziar Divangahi and his research team discovered that BCG provides protection against respiratory infections but not SARS-CoV-2. The BCG vaccine was linked to lower COVID-19 morbidity and mortality early in the pandemic, prompting global large-scale clinical trials – most of which failed to show BCG’s protective effect against SARS-CoV-2. Kaufmann et al., Cell Rep. 2022 Mar 8;38(10):110502.
New Mechanism of Inflammation in Muscular Dystrophy
Basil Petrof and his research team have uncovered a new mechanism of inflammation in muscular dystrophy, paving the way for the development of new therapies. The study reveals that signals sent from damaged muscles to the bone marrow induce long-lasting changes in immune cells termed ‘trained immunity’ and actually exacerbate harmful inflammation. Bhattarai et al., Nat Commun. 2022 Feb 15;13(1):879.
2021
Cost-Effectiveness of Regular TB Testing to Reduce the Spread of TB
The results of a study led by Kevin Schwartzman and Faiz Ahmad Khan confirms that regular community-wide screening for active and latent TB in communities with high TB rates is cost-effective and is recommended as a way to help reduce outbreaks and the spread of TB in these vulnerable areas.
2020
Mtb can Reprogram Stem Cells to Impair Innate Immunity Against TB
Publication in Cell by Maziar Divangahi shows that stem cells can be targeted for protective vaccination as well as be hijacked by a pathogen to increase TB virulence. Soon after Mtb infection, the bacteria translocate from the lungs to the bone marrow and reprograms stem cells to impair innate immunity against TB. Khan et al., Cell. 2020 Oct 29;183(3):752-770.e22.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Reduces Heart Problems in Patients with Prediabetes
Sushmita Pamidi’s new study found that people with prediabetes and obstructive sleep apnea could reduce their daytime resting heart rate and risk of cardiovascular disease by using a CPAP machine at night. Pamidi et al., J Am Heart Assoc. 2020 Oct 1:e016871.
Possible Link Between Cell Death and Allergic Diseases
Publication in Nature Immunology in collaboration with Irah King showed that cell death signals the immune system to mount a type-2 response, thus contributing to allergic diseases. The findings highlight cell death as a key driver of type-2 responses, offering new insights into allergic disease mechanisms. Schneider et al. Nat Immunol. 2020 Dec;21(12):1528-1539.
Editorial: Chlorine Gas, Airway Inflammation and Cysteinyl Leukotrienes
Editorial: Chlorine Gas, Airway Inflammation, and Cysteinyl Leukotrienes: The Neutrophil Does Not Work Alone. Publication by James Martin shows that neutrophils, epithelial cells, and other lung cells all play a roll for Chlorine to induce airway hyperresponsiveness. Original Article: McGovern et al., Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol. 2020 Nov;63(5):681-689.
Lifesaving HIV and Tuberculosis Medications
Dick Menzies and his research team played an important role in a recent study published in The Lancet that found that implementing a combination of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV and newer tuberculosis (TB) medications decreased the risk of death for adults with multidrug-resistant TB. Bisson et al., Lancet. 2020 Aug 8;396(10248):402-411.
Small OXE Molecule Antagonists as Treatment Option for Eosinophilic-Driven Disorders
Liminal BioSciences, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, has acquired a preclinical research program of small OXE molecule antagonists. This program is based on the research of William Powell at the Meakins and Joshua Rokach of the Florida Institute of Technology.
Unmasking a Hidden Link: Sleep Apnea and Gestational Diabetes in Pregnancy
The research team, let by Sushmita Pamidi, found that increasing severity of sleep apnea in pregnant women with gestational diabetes was, in fact, linked with higher glucose levels at night. It is possible that improved glucose control in pregnancy by treatment of sleep apnea could lead to improved overall outcomes for mother and baby.
Newbold et al., Chest. 2020 Jul 17:S0012-3692(20)31911-5.
Rifampin for Latent TB: A Better Choice
Dick Menzies carried out a cost-comparison study of two treatments for latent tuberculosis. He compared a four-month course of rifampin to a nine-month course of isoniazid. The rifampin was found to be a safer and more cost-effective choice than the isoniazid. Bastos et al., Ann Intern Med. 2020 Aug 4;173(3):169-178.
Dysanapsis Is a Strong Risk Factor for COPD
JAMA publication by Benjamin Smith highlights dysanapsis as a strong risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Dysanapsis is a developmental mismatch between airway and lung size. While the root cause for dysanapsis remains unknown, these findings help understand why COPD can occur in people who never smoked and do not have other risk factors. Smith et al., JAMA. 2020 Jun 9;323(22):2268-2280.
β-glucan Induces Protective Trained Immunity
Cell Reports Publication by Maziar Divangahi shows that β-glucan induces protective trained immunity in human monocytes infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, as well as in mice infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Their work is paving the way for both prophylactic and therapeutic use of β-glucan in TB. Moorlag et al., Cell Rep. 2020 May 19;31(7):107634.
2019
Editorial: Evolving Mechanisms of Disease Tolerance
Frontiers in Immunology editorial by Maziar Divangahi and Irah King discusses the history of disease tolerance. Reviews by Meakins members are prominently featured in this editorial. King and Divangahi, Front Immunol. 2019 Dec 20:10:2974.
New Role for the Lipid Mediator Leukotriene B4 in the Lung
Nature Microbiology publication by William Powell and Maziar Divangahi identified a new role for the lipid mediator Leukotriene B4 in the lung. They show that the LTB4 molecule is capable of not only reducing collateral tissue damage caused by immune responses in response to flu (influenza) infection, but also enhancing host survival. Pernet et al., Nat Microbiol. 2019 Aug;4(8):1389-1400.
Anti-TB Drugs Cause Changes to Gut Microbiota, Compromising Immunity
Mucosal Immunology publication by Irah King, Maziar Divangahi, and Dick Menzies showed that anti-tuberculosis drugs caused changes to gut microbiota, thereby compromising immunity. This then led to an increased susceptibility to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. This work provides a basis for novel therapeutic strategies exploiting the gut-lung axis in Mtb infection. Khan et al., Mucosal Immunol. 2019 May;12(3):772-783.
2018
New Cellular Target Can Weaken the Bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa
PNAS publication by Dao Nguyen identified a new cellular target that can weaken the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a daunting microbe which can become highly tolerant to many antibiotics. They found that inhibition of the enzyme activity (superoxide dismutase) or the stress signaling system renders the pathogen more susceptible to antibiotics. Martins et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2018 Sep 25;115(39):9797-9802.
Pivotal Study Leading the Overhaul of WHO Treatment Guidelines for Patients with Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis
A game changing study was recently published by Dick Menzies in The Lancet. His research found that new medicines are more effective than traditional ones used to treat multi-drug resistant tuberculosis. This work is leading the overhaul of WHO treatment guidelines for patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. Ahmad et al., Lancet. 2018 Sep 8;392(10150):821-834.
Latent TB Treatment: Shorter is Better
Two studies published in the NEJM by Dick Menzies on treatment of latent tuberculosis show a novel, short therapy (4 months Rifampin) is safer and more effective in children and adults than standard therapy. This four-month therapy is a fundamental game-changer in TB prevention. Pediatric study: Diallo et al., N Engl J Med. 2018 Aug 2;379(5):454-463. Adult study: Menzies et al., N Engl J Med. 2018 Aug 2;379(5):440-453.
CypD is a Key Checkpoint for T Cell Metabolism and Regulates Disease Tolerance in TB
Science Immunology publication by Maziar Divangahi tries to explain why the vast majority of people infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) can tolerate the infection without developing disease. The study determined that the mitochondrial protein cyclophilin D (CypD) acts as a key checkpoint for T cell metabolism and regulates disease tolerance in TB. Tzelepis et al., Sci Immunol. 2018 May 11;3(23):eaar4135.
Variations in Lung Anatomy Associated with COPD
PNAS publication by Benjamin Smith and Carolyn Baglole shows that the internal anatomy of our lungs is surprisingly variable. Some of those variations are associated with a greater risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Smith et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2018 Jan 30;115(5):E974-E981.
BCG Educates Stem Cells for Protective Innate Immunity Against TB
BCG Educates hematopoietic stem cells to generate protective innate immunity against TB. Publication in Cell by Maziar Divangahi, Irah King, and Bruce Mazer shows for the first time that when BCG is administered to mice in a way that enables access to the bone marrow, it can reprogram stem cells and offers long-term innate immune protection against M. tuberculosis infection. Kaufmann et al., Cell. 2018 Jan 11;172(1-2):176-190.e19.
2017
Mechanical Ventilation Induces Diaphragmatic Dysfunction in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Mice
Editorial: Mechanical Ventilation for DMD: Sinner or Saint? Publication by Basil Petrof shows short‐term mechanical ventilation induces rapid diaphragmatic force loss and biochemical changes consistent with VIDD in mdx mice. This may have implications for the optimal use of intermittent mechanical ventilation in DMD patients. Original Publication: Liang et al., Muscle Nerve. 2018 Mar;57(3):442-448.
RIPK3 Protein is Involved in the Regulation of Immune Response to the Flu
PLoS Pathogen publication by Maziar Divangahi, James Martin, and Salman Qureshi. Their research is trying to understand how the mechanisms of the immune system fight the flu in the hopes of finding new immunotherapies to combat the virus. The discovery of the RIPK3 protein that is involved in the regulation of immune response to the flu means help may be on the horizon. Downey et al., PLoS Pathog. 2017 Apr 14;13(4):e1006326.
STAT6-Inhibitory Peptide May Reduce Incidence of RSV-Related Asthma
Journal of Leukocyte Biology publication by Elizabeth Fixman demonstrates that STAT6-IP reduces the development of allergic-type lung inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness in mice re-challenged with respiratory syncytial virus. This peptide may reduce the incidence of RSV-related asthma. Srinivasa et al., J Leukoc Biol. 2017 Feb;101(2):519-529.
2016
First Primer on Tuberculosis in Nature Reviews Disease Primers.
Publication by Maziar Divangahi, Dick Menzies, and colleagues. Pai et al., Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2016 Oct 27;2:16076.
Desensitization Program Helps Kids with Milk Allergies
New milk allergy research being co-led by Bruce Mazer. The program is having good success with helping children with milk allergies build up tolerance to milk protein by introducing the allergen very slowly into the diet.
Benefits of Newborn Screening for Cystic Fibrosis
Journal of Cystic Fibrosis publication by Larry Lands reinforces the benefits of newborn screening for Cystic Fibrosis patients. The publication led to many articles and interviews about this research. Children with Cystic Fibrosis who are diagnosed through newborn screening are healthier and benefit more from new treatments. Mak et al. J Cyst Fibros. 2016 May;15(3):302-8.
First Proof That Mechanical Ventilation Can Cause Human Diaphragm Dysfunction
Thorax Editorial: Respiratory muscle wasting in the ICU. Publication by Sabah Hussain and Basil Petrof provides the first proof that mechanical ventilation can cause contractile dysfunction of the diaphragm in humans. Hussain et al., Thorax. 2016 May;71(5):436-45
Toll-like Receptor Signalling in Regenerative Myogenesis: Friend and Foe
Journal of Pathology Commentary. Toll-like receptor signalling in regenerative myogenesis: friend and foe. Publication by Basil Petrof, Maziar Divangahi, and Salman Qureshi shows that macrophage function and skeletal muscle repair depends greatly upon the muscle injury context and the micro‐environment. Modifying the inflammatory milieu in dystrophic muscle may serve as a useful therapeutic measure in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Mojumdar et al, J Pathol. 2016 May;239(1):10-22.
Exercise can Lower the Risk of Muscle Wasting Associated with Aging
A study by Russell Hepple and Tania Taivassalo on world-class master athletes in their 80s found that high levels of physical activity may protect against the neuromuscular decline associated with aging, potentially maintaining strength and function later in life.
Power et al., J Appl Physiol (1985). 2016 Oct 1;121(4):1013-1020.
Undiagnosed COPD Contributes to the Burden of Health Care Utilization: Data from the CanCOLD Study
A study by Jean Bourbeau demonstrates that many cases of COPD go undiagnosed and actually require more health care and services than diagnosed patients. The research suggests that proper diagnosis of COPD and patient care is critical and could potentially reduce hospital admissions and health care costs. Labonté et al., Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2016 Aug 1;194(3):285-98.
2015
STAT6 Inhibitory Peptide Educates the Immune System From Developing an Allergic Response
Elizabeth Fixman developed STAT6-IP, a chimeric inhibitory peptide able to inhibit aberrant Th2 responses in the airways of preclinical models of asthma. The latest publication by Christine McCusker showed STAT6-IP administered in newborn mice reprogrammed their immune system, creating long-lasting tolerance to allergens. This research highlights a potential path to prevent allergic diseases like asthma by targeting immune development early in life. Michael et al., Mucosal Immunol. 2015 Nov;8(6):1248-61.
Variants of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Can Cause a Lot of Inflammation
Science Advances publication by Dao Nguyen shows that there are variants of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacteria commonly found in Cystic Fibrosis patients, that can cause a lot of inflammation. Nguyen’s team is the first to make the connection between the bacteria and inflammation. Lafayette et al, Sci Adv. 2015 Jul;1(6):e1500199.
Nurturing Nanotubes: Role of Nanotubes Between T Cells and Airway Smooth Muscle
Journal of Immunology Top 10% In this Issue: Nurturing Nanotubes. Publication by James Martin elucidates the functional role of nanotubes between T cells and airway smooth muscle. Al Heialy et al, J Immunol. 2015 Jun 15;194(12):5626-34.
2014
Unveiling a Key Player in TB Defense
Maziar Divangahi and his team identified the critical role of the protein annexin1 in defending against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). Annexin1 helps dendritic cells – key players in the immune system – engulf dying cells and present bacterial antigens to CD8+ T cells, which are crucial for fighting TB. These findings highlight annexin1 as a central mediator of immunity and suggest it could be a target for developing new TB treatments. Tzelepis et al., J Clin Invest. 2015 Feb;125(2):752-68.
T Cells and Airway Smooth Muscle Interactions in Asthma
Perspectives Editorial in the J of Physiology. In the field, it was still unknown whether airway smooth muscle activation by activated T cell binding could also affect airway smooth muscle contractility. Work by the Anne-Marie Lauzon group provides evidence for this targeted T cell–airway smooth muscle cell interaction resulting in increased airway smooth muscle shortening velocity. The work shows that inflammatory cells promote airway smooth muscle hypercontractility in airway hyper-responsiveness and asthma. Matusovsky et al, J Physiol. 2014 Jul 15;592(14):2999-3012.
STAT-6 Inhibitory Peptide Inhibits Aberrant Th2 Responses in RSV Infection
European Journal of Immunology publication by Elizabeth Fixman. The STAT6 inhibitory peptide can educate the immune system away from developing an allergic response. STAT6 has been show to inhibit aberrant Th2 responses in the airways of preclinical models of respiratory syncytial virus infection. Srinivas et al. Eur J Immunol. 2014 Aug;44(8):2349-59.
Host Defense Shield: How NLRX1 Protects Against Influenza
Work by Maziar Divangahi, James Martin, and Simon Rousseau uncovered a vital defense mechanism against influenza A virus (IAV). The protein NLRX1 prevents virus-induced damage to mitochondria in immune cells called macrophages. The findings pave the way for potential therapies targeting mitochondrial function to combat severe influenza infections and enhance immunity. Jaworska et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2014 May 20;111(20):E2110-9.
Inhibition of PGE2 Increases Survival of Mice Infected With H1N1 Flu Virus
Immunity publication by William Powell, Maziar Divangahi revealed that a drug that inhibits PGE2 increases survival of mice infected with H1N1 flu virus. This finding paves the way for urgently needed novel therapies that may be effective against the flu and other viral infections. Coulombe et al, Immunity. 2014 Apr 17;40(4):554-68.
2013
2012
2011
Starved Bacteria Can Better Adapt and Survive
Science Perspectives Feature: Antioxidant strategies to tolerate antibiotics. Publication by Dao Nguyen identified that when bacteria are starved, it allows them to better adapt and survive. Nguyen et al. Science. 2011 Nov 18;334(6058):982-6.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Biofilms: New Insights on Antibiotic Tolerance
This Week in Science Feature: Arrest and Tolerate. Publication by Dao Nguyen is featured in “This Week in Science” for her work on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and biofilms: new insights on antibiotic tolerance. The publication shows that antibiotic tolerance occurs, not because the targets of antibiotics have become inactive during growth arrest, but because starvation-sensing mechanisms generate protective responses. Science, Nov 18, 2011, Vol 334, Issue 6058, pp 875-876
New STAT6-IP Therapy Blocks Asthma Triggers
Elizabeth Fixman developed a novel treatment for allergic asthma using a cell-penetrating peptide called STAT-6-IP. In a study with mice exposed to ragweed allergens, topical application of STAT-6-IP reduced inflammation, improved breathing, and suppressed allergic responses for up to two weeks. These findings highlight the potential of STAT-6-IP as a groundbreaking therapy for long-term asthma control as well as for other chronic allergic airway diseases. Wang et al., Clin Exp Allergy. 2011 Nov;41(11):1622-30.
Expression and Functional Roles of Angiopoietin-2 in Skeletal Muscles
Sabah Hussain found that Angiopoietin-2 (ANGPT2), a protein involved in blood vessel formation, is naturally present in skeletal muscle precursor cells and its levels increase during muscle cell differentiation. These results suggest that ANGPT2 plays a crucial role in skeletal muscle repair. Mofarrahi et al., PLoS One. 2011;6(7):e22882.
Interleukin-13 Inhibits Proliferation and Enhances Contractility of Human Airway Smooth Muscle Cells
James Martin and colleagues found that IL-13 suppresses the ability of airway smooth muscle cells to multiply while increasing their contractility in response to histamine, a chemical that causes airway tightening in asthma. These findings highlight how IL-13 influences airway remodeling in asthma, particularly in promoting airway narrowing. Risse et al., Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 2011 Jun;300(6):L958-66.
Cigarette Smoke Exacerbates Inflammation in COPD Through its Effects on CD8+ T cells and Toll-like Receptor Pathways
Findings by Qutayba Hamid, David Eidelman, Jean Bourbeau, and Carolyn Baglole show that CD8+ T cells in the lungs of COPD patients have higher levels of TLR4 and TLR9. Exposure of these cells to cigarette smoke amplified TLR4 and TLR9 protein levels and triggered the release of cytokines, suggesting that these effectors play a role in COPD lung inflammation. Nadigel et al., Respir Res. 2011 Nov 9;12(1):149.
TH17 Cytokines Induce Human Airway Smooth Muscle Cell Migration
Using laboratory models, David Eidelman, Qutayba Hamid, James Martin, and Simon Rousseau found that TH17-associated cytokines contribute to airway remodeling in asthma by inducing the migration of airway smooth muscle cells. These findings reveal a novel mechanism by which TH17 cytokines may drive the structural changes characteristic of severe asthma. Chang et al., J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011 Apr;127(4):1046-53.e1-2.
2010
How Tuberculosis Evades and Manipulates Immune Responses
Maziar Divangahi and colleagues have uncovered how Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) evades the immune system by influencing macrophage cell death. Mtb manipulates host cell pathways to prevent apoptosis while promoting necrosis, which helps the bacteria spread. This evasion strategy delays the immune system’s ability to activate protective T cells, crucial for controlling the infection. This research provides critical insights into Mtb’s survival strategies and the interplay between innate and adaptive immunity. Divangahi et al., Nat Immunol. 2010 Aug;11(8):751-8.
Urotensin II and its Receptor are Expressed in LAM Patients
This study by Arnold Kristof found that urotensin II (UII), a molecule known for influencing blood vessel function, along with its receptor (UT) and a related peptide (URP), is present at high levels in the lung tissue of LAM patients. Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), a rare lung disease affecting women that is caused by the abnormal growth of smooth muscle-like cells in the lungs, leading to progressive respiratory issues. The findings suggest that the urotensin system may play a significant role in the progression of LAM. Kristof et al. Peptides. 2010 Aug;31(8):1511-6.
T-Cells and Smooth Muscle Remodeling in Asthma
This study explored how T cells contribute to airway smooth muscle remodeling in asthma. Using bronchial biopsies from individuals with asthma, James Martin, Qutayba Hamid, and Ronald Olivenstein found that T cells directly interacted with smooth muscle cells, driving their proliferation. These findings highlight the role of immune cells in structural changes in the airways, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets for reducing airway remodeling in asthma. Ramos-Barbón et al., Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2010 Aug 1;182(3):317-24
IL-17 Promotes Endothelial Activation and Neutrophil Recruitment
In a study by Simon Rousseau, Qutayba Hamid, James Martin, and Ronald Olivenstein, IL-17 was shown to stimulate lung endothelial cells to produce neutrophil chemoattractants (CXCL8) and increase the expression of adhesion molecules (E-selectin and VCAM-1). These processes enhance the migration of neutrophils to sites of inflammation in a p38 MAPK-dependent manner. Blocking IL-17’s action on endothelial cells may represent a viable therapeutic strategy for conditions characterized by neutrophilic inflammation, such as asthma, COPD, and CF. Roussel et al. J Immunol. 2010 Apr 15;184(8):4531-7.
2009
Long-Term Consequences of Irritant-Induced Asthma
Work by Qutayba Hamid sheds light on the long-term impact of acute irritant-induced asthma, a condition caused by exposure to harmful chemicals, such as chlorine, at high concentrations. Even years after the initial incident, affected individuals show persistent airway inflammation and remodeling, similar to severe asthma. The study found increased levels of inflammatory cells and proteins in the lungs, as well as thickened airway walls, which contribute to chronic breathing difficulties.
Takeda et al., Allergy Clin Immunol. 2009 Nov;124(5):975-81.e1
Allergen Challenge on Airway Smooth Muscle and Airway Remodeling
New study by James Martin and Anne-Marie Lauzon examines how repeated exposure to allergens impacts the airways in asthma using a rat model. They found that allergen exposure caused the airway smooth muscle to thicken due to increased cell growth. This thickening temporarily reduced the muscle’s ability to contract effectively, but the changes largely reversed within a week after allergen exposure stopped. Labonté et al., Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 2009 Oct;297(4):L698-705.
Increased Expression of IL-33 in Severe Asthma
The findings by Qutayba Hamid, James Martin, and Ronald Olivenstein shed light on the role of IL-33 in severe asthma, suggesting that it could be a marker of inflammation or a potential target for new treatments, especially for patients who do not respond well to traditional steroid therapies. Préfontaine et al., J Immunol. 2009 Oct 15;183(8):5094-103.
New role for mTOR
Researcher in the Arnold Kristof lab found that when mTOR is inactivated, it strengthens the activity of STAT1, which plays a crucial role in controlling genes involved in inflammation and cell death. By targeting the interaction between mTOR and STAT1, therapies may boost or suppress immune responses more precisely. Fielhaber et al., J Biol Chem. 2009 Sep 4;284(36):24341-53.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Patients with Severe Asthma
Research by John Kimoff, Qutayba Hamid, Ronald Olivenstein, and James Martin found that obstructive sleep apnea is much more common in individuals with severe asthma compared to those with moderate asthma or no asthma at all. Julien et al., J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2009 Aug;124(2):371-6.
Lack of CFTR Affects Skeletal Muscles and the Diaphragm
CFTR plays a role in regulating calcium levels and controlling inflammation in muscle cells. Without CFTR, muscle cells experience abnormal calcium levels, excessive inflammation, and activation of pathways that lead to muscle wasting. This discovery by Basil Petrof highlights a connection between CFTR deficiency and muscle dysfunction, beyond the well-known lung-related issues in Cystic Fibrosis. Divangahi et al., PLoS Genet. 2009 Jul;5(7):e1000586.
Airway Remodeling in Patients with Severe Asthma
This study by James Martin, Qutayba Hamid, and Ronald Olivenstein explores the differences in airway structure and inflammation in people with severe asthma. They found that individuals with persistent obstruction tend to have thicker airway smooth muscle and more severe airway remodeling, which may contribute to their reduced lung function. Interestingly, both groups showed significant inflammation. Kaminska et al., J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2009 Jul;124(1):45-51.e1-4.
Intracellular Signaling Pathways in Human Airway Epithelial Cells
Work by Simon Rousseau identified signaling pathways that control the production of IL-8 and RANTES, which are produced when cells detect bacterial or viral threats. These messengers attract immune cells to fight infections, but can also drive inflammation in chronic lung diseases. This work highlights a new understanding of lung inflammation and could lead to therapies that minimize harmful inflammation while preserving the lung’s ability to fight infections. Bérubé et al., Cell Signal. 2009 Mar;21(3):448-56.
How Smooth Muscle Contributes to Asthma
Research by Anne-Marie Lauzon and Qutayba Hamid investigates how airway smooth muscle contributes to asthma. The study found that muscle proteins, such as myosin and transgelin, are overproduced in asthma. These changes lead to faster muscle contraction, making the airways more likely to narrow excessively, a hallmark of asthma. Léguillette et al., Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2009 Feb 1;179(3):194-204.
2008
EGR-1 is a Critical Player in Blood Vessel Development
New research from Sabah Hussain explores how Early Growth Response-1 (EGR-1) helps drive the formation of blood vessels. They found that Egr-1 is activated by Angiopoietin-1 (ANG-1), which plays a key role in encouraging blood vessel cells to grow, migrate, and form new structures. Abdel-Malak et al., Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2009 Feb;29(2):209-16. Epub 2008 Dec 26.
CC Family Chemokines Play a Direct Role in Repairing Skeletal Muscle After Injury
This discovery by the Basil Petrof lab reveals a previously unrecognized role for CC chemokines in muscle regeneration, offering new insights into how our bodies heal from muscle injuries. It also suggests potential therapeutic strategies for conditions like muscular dystrophies or other muscle-wasting diseases, where boosting muscle repair could improve outcomes. Yahiaoui et al., J Physiol. 2008 Aug 15;586(16):3991-4004.
NADPH Oxidase Fuels Muscle Repair
Work by Sabah Hussain and Basil Petrof shows that NADPH oxidase, a protein complex in muscle cells, plays a critical role in repairing muscle injuries by promoting the growth of skeletal muscle precursor cells, which are adult stem cells involved in muscle regeneration. These findings highlight NADPH oxidase as a key regulator of muscle repair, suggesting that targeting this pathway could improve muscle healing and regeneration in conditions involving injury or muscle loss. Mofarrahi et al., Antioxid Redox Signal. 2008 Mar;10(3):559-74.
Bone Health in Cystic Fibrosis Mice
Mice lacking the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein showed persistent osteopenia, a condition of weakened bones with reduced density, The findings by the Christina Haston group reveal that CFTR deficiency directly impacts bone development, causing thinner bone walls and fewer supporting structures. Haston et al., Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2008 Feb 1;177(3):309-15.
Unraveling Inflammatory Signals Through the TPL2-MKK1/2-ERK1/2 Pathway
Work by Simon Rousseau shows how the TPL2-MKK1/2-ERK1/2 protein pathway plays a critical role in inflammation. The findings provide insight into a promising drug target for inflammatory diseases. By focusing on TPL2, researchers could develop treatments that minimize inflammation without affecting other essential immune functions. This work represents a step toward precision therapies for chronic inflammatory conditions. Rousseau et al., J Cell Sci. 2008 Jan 15;121(Pt 2):149-54.
2007
Innovative Treatment for Asthma: Targeting Allergic Responses at the Source
Elizabeth Fixman developed a novel therapy for allergic asthma and rhinitis using a specially designed cell-penetrating peptide, STAT-6-IP. This peptide targets the STAT-6 protein, a key player in the immune response that drives inflammation, mucus production, and airway hyper-responsiveness associated with asthma. STAT-6-IP effectively reduced inflammation, suppressed mucus production, and prevented airway narrowing in mouse models of mild and severe asthma. This approach represents a promising step toward precision therapies for asthma and related allergic diseases. McCusker et al., J Immunol. 2007 Aug 15;179(4):2556-64.
1972
Meakins-Christie Laboratories Founded
The Meakins-Christie Laboratories for Respiratory Research was officially opened in August 1972. From the beginning, the laboratories were designed to be interdisciplinary, and physiologists, physicians, epidemiologists, pathologists, radiologists, and biomedical engineers were invited to participate.