Research

Dr. Hannila’s three main areas of research are: 1.  Promoting axonal regeneration in the central nervous system (CNS)  The CNS does not regenerate after injury, and this leads to permanent paralysis and sensory loss after spinal cord injuries.  One of the main reasons for this regenerative failure is the presence of inhibitory proteins, such as myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG), in CNS myelin.  Our laboratory is searching for ways to overcome this inhibition and eventually, we hope to develop new treatments that will improve axonal regeneration in the spinal cord.  We are also investigating the intracellular signaling pathways that are activated by MAG and other myelin-associated inhibitors to determine if their activity can be blocked. 2.  Neurobiology of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) SLPI is a serine protease inhibitor with well-characterized anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial effects, but relatively little is known about its role in the nervous system.  We have previously shown that SLPI can overcome inhibition by CNS myelin and promote axonal regeneration after CNS injury, and we are now exploring SLPI’s role in axonal development and guidance in both the CNS and PNS.  We also plan to investigate whether SLPI can be an effective treatment for neurodegenerative disorders such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and ALS. 3.  Role of SLPI in vascular development Very little is known about SLPI’s role in embryonic and morphogenesis.  For this study, we are using a line of SLPI null mutant mice to examine how SLPI can affect the development of blood vessels.

Student Research Opportunities

Students applying to the MSc program should hold a Bachelor’s degree in one of the many fields listed:  Neuroscience, Life Sciences/Biomedical Sciences (including Physiology, Pharmacology), Biochemistry, Biology/Microbiology, Genetics and or Molecular Biolog.  Applicants with a medical degree (MD, BM, MBBS) will be considered with research experience. Applicants to the PhD program should hold a Master’s degree in one of the fields listed above. Additional information about applying to graduate studies: Assessible Facilities / Equipment The laboratory has a wide range of equipment, including a dedicated tissue culture facility and access to the Department’s histology and microscopy core facilities. Undergraduate Student Opportunities Undergraduate students interested in working in the lab for the summer are encouraged to apply for an Undergraduate Student Research Award, offered by the VP Research and International:  Students interested in co-op positions should email to: sari.hannila@umanitoba.ca