Podcast

Seeking a treatment for ALS

PhD student Sheena Gurm looks deep into brain cells for clues to a deadly disease
Institution(s)
The University of Winnipeg
University of Manitoba
Province(s)
Manitoba
Topic(s)
Virology
Genetics
PhD student Sheena Gurm stands surrounded by line drawings depicting strands of DNA

When viruses infected our ancestors millions of years ago, they left behind strands of their DNA embedded in human brain cells. At the University of Manitoba, Sheena Gurm studies these viral sequences, as part of a research team seeking to understand the causes of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Her research may lead to new treatments, such as the use of antiretroviral drugs, to combat this debilitating and ultimately deadly affliction.

With thanks to CKUW 95.9 FM Winnipeg for their assistance in producing this podcast.

Related Stories

A tiny baby's dark eyes and nose peak out from the blanket she's swaddled in, her little fingers grip the edge.
article
Quebec

Combating premature births

Births before 37 weeks are linked to early intrauterine inflammation. Researchers have developed a molecule that inhibits this.
A stylized line drawing of a woman's torso with one breast highlighted by a coloured circle.
article
Manitoba

Ushering in a new era of breast cancer screening

The discovery of tumour biomarkers paves the way for earlier disease detection through a simple blood test
A huge, circular room is entirely filled by a ring-like structure of large metal pipes. Inset is a series of colourful protein crystals photographed on a purple background.
article
Ontario,Quebec,Saskatchewan

PART II: It is built on understanding

Illuminating our world at the atomic scale with a light so bright the sun dims by comparison. University of Saskatchewan.