2012 ircm annual_report

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DISCOVERING

2011-2012 ANNUAL REPORT

2 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT |3

The IRCM:
a biomedical
research
institute
located in
the heart of
Montréal


DISCOVERING T R E AT I N G
36 researchers – IRCM research professors 16,000 yearly visits at the clinic
182 scientific publications 31 health professionals
$22.9 million in research funding 21 physicians specialized in
hypertension
cholesterol
obesity and diabetes


I N N O V ating CONTRIBUTING
8 core facilities 5 new declarations of invention
3 research platforms 7 new patent filings (or applications)
5 specialized services


Cancer
Cholesterol
Diabetes
Hypertension
Cardiovascular diseases
Degenerative diseases

TRAINING Infectious diseases
Neuroethics
Clinical research
113 Master’s and PhD students
Nervous system
52 postdoctoral fellows
Systems biology
58 scholarship holders
HIV/AIDS
467 teaching hours
Medicinal chemistry
Embryonic development

10 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT MISSION / THE IRCM AT A GLANCE | 11

To understand the causes of diseases / To find diagnostic tools and means of prevention
and treatment / To train a new generation of high-calibre scientists / To contribute to
Quebec’s socioeconomic development by facilitating the commercial development of new
discoveries

MISSION
/ THE IRCM AT A GLANCE Founded in 1967 Supported by the Fonds de recherche du Québec
– Santé (frqs)
Independent non-profit institution
Member of the Université de Montréal’s ruis
Affiliated with the Université de Montréal (Réseau universitaire intégré de santé)

Associated with McGill University 425 researchers, students and employees

IRCM Clinic affiliated with the Centre hospitalier A budget of 42.3 million dollars
de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM)

Funded by Quebec ministry of Economic
Development, Innovation and Export Trade

12 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT | 13

Translational research at the IRCM:
precursor to Quebec’s model

As early as 1952, the IRCM was born from the
idea of bringing together basic and clinical
researchers under the same roof. Translational
research thus began with the fields of
hypertension, atherosclerosis, immune
disorders and Parkinson’s disease.

After all these years, this model continues to
be extremely relevant. The following are two
examples of translational research conducted
at the IRCM in 2011-2012.

14 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT Translational research at the IRCM: precursor to Quebec’s model | 15

REPLACING STATINS “We discovered that the PCSK9 enzyme leads IMPROVING THE CLINICAL MANAGEMENT OF THE “Although our society’s ever-growing problems
to the deterioration of receptors, located on the TYPE-2 DIABETES EPIDEMIC: A PROJECT AT THE of obesity and sedentary lifestyles are among
Since 1994, statins have been the treatment liver’s surface, that collect bad cholesterol (LDL) HEART OF PERSONALIZED HEALTHCARE the main risk factors for type-2 diabetes, they
of choice to lower cholesterol levels in the particles circulating in the blood and internalize far from justify the occurrence of the disease or
blood. Nearly 30 million people are prescribed them in the liver, where they are then disintegrated. Two IRCM teams are currently conducting a the associated cardio-metabolic risk. Resistance
statins today because they suffer from Consequently, PCSK9 leads to an accumulation study that, when completed, could have an impact to insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas,
familial hypercholesterolemia or have had a of LDL in the blood and contributes to the growth on the management of the type-2 diabetes displayed by peripheral tissues such as muscles,
cardiovascular incident such as a stroke. Others of plaque that eventually blocks arteries. Following epidemic. By using proteomics and computational the liver or the adipose tissue, is required for the
receive the drug because, in addition to having numerous observations, we found PCSK9 to be an biology, we will be able to use additional criteria development of the disease. However, the underlying
high levels of cholesterol, they are predisposed ideal therapeutic target for the development of a to predict the risk of developing type-2 diabetes, molecular mechanisms to this insulin resistance
to cardiovascular diseases due to various risk new generation of products more effective than the in addition to current criteria such as obesity and remain poorly understood. A better knowledge of
factors, including a sedentary lifestyle, smoking currently-available medication. We recently received family history. Hence, we could segment patient these mechanisms will allow us not only to better
or high blood pressure. However, many among a substantial investment from AmorChen that could groups so they could receive the appropriate understand the trigger and the progression of the
them have become intolerant to the drug, to the allow us to develop a novel cholesterol-lowering treatment in due course, according to their risk disease, but also to define therapeutic targets and
point of having to interrupt treatment. drug. This drug will block PCSK9, which will in turn of developing complications. develop tools for diagnosis and prediction.”
significantly lower levels of cholesterol in the blood.”
“This intolerance to statins is a catastrophe for “Recent genomic studies have shown that a series RÉMI RABASA-LHORET, MD, PhD
people suffering from familial hypercholesterolemia. NABIL G. SEIDAH, C.M., O.Q., PhD, MSRC Director, Metabolic Diseases research unit
of genes are “susceptible” to insulin resistance. We
Director, Biochemical Neuroendocrinology research unit Director, Obesity, Metabolism and Diabetes clinic
New therapeutic approaches are crucial for those developed a process to map protein interaction Director, Research platform on obesity, metabolism and
Full IRCM Research Professor
who are intolerant, but also for the large number of Canada Research Chairholder in Precursor Proteolysis networks in human cells. We then applied this diabetes
patients for whom the current treatment does not process to the characterization of networks involving Holder of the J.A. DeSève Chair of Excellence
allow them to reach the recommended cholesterol proteins that are coded with the insulin-resistant
levels. Clinical trials are currently underway at susceptibility genes. We are looking for specific
the IRCM in order to evaluate a new therapeutic signatures, named proteomic “imprints”, for each
approach, which, once completed, could replace phenotype. These imprints could then be used to
statins and thus provide individuals with a better diagnose or predict the onset of various phenotypes
treatment option. These clinical trials were made related to type-2 diabetes.”
possible thanks to the discovery of PCSK9 by our
basic researcher colleague, Nabil G. Seidah.” BENOIT COULOMBE, PhD
Director, Gene Transcription and Proteomics research unit
ROBERT DUFOUR, MD, M.Sc., CSPQ Director, Proteomics discovery platform
Director, Nutrition, Metabolism and Atherosclerosis clinic Director, National platform for human interactome mapping

16 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT TABLE OF CONTENTS | 17

Message from the Chairwoman of the Board / 18 IRCM Foundation / 100
Message from the President and Scientific Message from the President / 104
Director / 22 Message from the Director / 106
Planning the future / 26
SUPPORTING
dISCOVERING / 108
Benefit activities
/ 30
Research divisions Volunteering
TrEATING
/ 111
IRCM Foundation’s Board of Directors / 112
/ 52 Give for Life campaign Board / 113
IRCM Clinic

InnovATING GIVING
/ 116
/ 62
TABLE OF CONTENTS Core facilities and technology platforms
The impact of your donations / 118
Partners and donors / 120

ContribuTING Research Funds and Chairs / 130

/ 70
Technology transfer

TRAINING
/ 74
Tomorrow’s researchers

ParticipATING
/ 84
Science for all
Research funding / 90
Administration / 92
IRCM Board of Directors / 93
IRCM Management / 95
Organizational charts / 96
Financial statements / 98


MESSAGE FROM
THE CHAIRWOMAN
OF THE BOARD

20 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRWOMAN OF THE BOARD | 21

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRWOMAN OF THE BOARD A new signature engineer. I also welcome the arrival of Brian Z. I am undertaking my second year as Chair of the
Gelfand, Vice President of Institutional relations Board with confidence and enthusiasm, and hope
I proudly accepted to chair the IRCM’s Board of The Board’s Communications Committee expressed and market operations at the Montréal Exchange, that the IRCM’s excellent reputation, and that of its
Directors. I knew that I was undertaking a demanding a wish to increase the IRCM’s visibility by working who undertakes his first term on the Board in 2012- researchers, continues to spread.
mandate. I also knew that the groundwork had been on a signature project to define the IRCM in a few 2013. These news directors join our prestigious
well laid by my predecessor, Gérard A. Limoges, and words. Following a consultation exercise conducted in team of Board members (see page 93 of this annual
that I would be surrounded by competent individuals collaboration with Dr. Tarik Möröy, his management report).
who hold dear the Institut’s success. Working team and the Institut’s communications department,
with people I admire, including the President and the Communications Committee submitted a
Scientific Director, Dr. Tarik Möröy, the researchers proposal that was approved by the Board. Appointment
Louise Lambert-Lagacé, C.M., C.Q., Dt. P.
and the IRCM’s community, seemed an outstanding
proposal to me. Hence, the acronym “IRCM” becomes the designation The Board approved the appointment of Thérèse
of use, and the verb “Discovering” the official Leroux as Chair of the IRCM’s ethics committee
corporate signature. Discovering is the term that best for research on human subjects. A prominent lawyer,
A very busy year describes, in one word, what is done at the IRCM, Thérèse Leroux is a professor in the Faculty of Law
because every day, researchers make discoveries in at the Université de Montréal, and a main researcher
In the first months following my appointment, I various fields. The public will also be able to better at the university’s Centre de recherche en droit
visited Avenue des Pins on several occasions to recognize what happens at the Institut without public.
familiarize myself with my new role and the people having to decipher the letters of its acronym. This
I would have the pleasure of working with. A signature also invites people to discover the IRCM.
relationship of trust was established, and methods The word “Discovering” will henceforth appear in Acknowledgements
of operation were implemented so that we could all the IRCM’s different communications tools.
effectively manage our new tasks. I would like to thank members of the Board of
Directors for their hard work and support throughout
The Board worked on several projects, and more Board recruitments my first year at the helm of the IRCM.
particularly on the IRCM’s funding by the Quebec
ministry of Economic Development, Innovation and Influential members from the Montréal community, I wish to congratulate Dr. Tarik Möröy for the
Export Trade and the Fonds de recherche du Québec sitting on the IRCM’s Board of Directors, are remarkable work he accomplishes every year, and for
– Santé. This project had a favourable outcome. dedicated to the development, success and future his invaluable and open collaboration. I also thank
of our institution. This year, I had the pleasure of everyone at the Institut for their warm welcome.
recruiting and welcoming Monique Jérôme-Forget,
Special Advisor at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt and Finally, I would like to acknowledge the departure
Korn/Ferry International; Michel Lespérance, of Camille Limoges, and sincerely thank him, on
corporate director; and Hélène Robitaille, civil behalf of the entire Board, for his outstanding
contributions since 2008 as a Board member.


MESSAGE
FROM THE
PrESIDENT
AND SCIENTIFIC
DIRECTOR

24 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT AND SCIENTIFIC DIRECTOR | 25

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT AND SCIENTIFIC Recruitment of researchers the Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases research Give for Life fundraising campaign
DIRECTOR division. Dr. Berthiaume was previously a researcher
I had the honour of welcoming, this year, Benjamin at the Hôtel-Dieu’s CHUM research centre. As The IRCM Foundation’s major fundraising campaign
It is my pleasure to once again present you with a Haibe-Kains as Assistant IRCM Research for Dr. Larochelle, he will continue his work on was publicly launched in fall 2011. Since then, many
report of this year’s activities at the IRCM, the first Professor and Director of the Bioinformatics and hypertension as IRCM Emeritus Professor, and will significant donations have been confirmed. I would
year of my second term of office. Firstly, I would Computational Genomics research unit, which keep consulting with his patients at the clinic. therefore like to thank everyone who contributed to
like to cordially thank the Chairwoman of the is part of the Systems Biology and Medicinal this important campaign. Without their continual
Board of Directors, Louise Lambert-Lagacé, for her Chemistry research division. He also supervises the Finally, it is with great enthusiasm that I announced support and their unwavering commitment, we could
commitment and her unwavering support. new Bioinformatics core facility. Dr. Haibe-Kains the return of Mathieu Ferron, who completed his not continue to recruit and set up elite researchers
holds a PhD in bioinformatics from the Université doctoral studies at the IRCM. He will be Assistant from around the world or offer cutting-edge training
Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium and, before his arrival IRCM Research Professor and Director of the new to our students.
Sustainable funding at the IRCM, was a postdoctoral fellow at the Dana- Integrative and Molecular Physiology research unit.
Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard in Boston. His laboratory will be part of the Cardiovascular
The IRCM’s funding is a key issue. Three years ago, and Metabolic Diseases research division. His arrival Congratulations
the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé announced I was also very pleased to announce the hiring of is scheduled for May 2013. He currently works
a complete reform of its funding program for its Cheolho Cheong as Assistant IRCM Research as a research associate in Dr. Gérard Karsenty’s I would like to sincerely congratulate all the
affiliated centres. Despite the IRCM’s excellent Professor. He is Director of the Cellular Physiology laboratory at Columbia University in New York. researchers who won prestigious awards this year,
performance, this FRQS reform significantly reduced and Immunology research unit, and has joined the here or abroad. These honours reflect upon the
the Institut’s annual funding. This placed the IRCM Immunity and Viral Infections research division. Institut’s entire community.
in a position that could become precarious in the Dr. Cheong obtained a PhD in genetics from the Appointment
long term. In collaboration with members of the Seoul National University in South Korea. He was Our researchers once again obtained excellent
Board of Directors, we undertook discussions with previously a research associate in the Laboratory of Towards the end of 2011, I suggested to the Board results in different funding agency competitions, at
the Quebec ministry of Economic Development, Cellular Physiology and Immunology at Rockefeller of Directors that Dr. Michel Chrétien, who directed a time when obtaining research grants has become
Innovation and Export Trade so that the IRCM’s University in New York. the Institut from 1984 to 1994, should be appointed increasingly difficult.
operating budget could henceforth be completely IRCM Emeritus Professor. In accordance with the
covered by the ministry. This project was a lengthy In addition, in response to the desire expressed by Dr. Board’s decision, Dr. Chrétien was reinstalled at the
one, but came to a positive conclusion in the summer Pierre Larochelle to reduce his professional activities, IRCM in January 2012. He can now continue his Acknowledgements
of 2012. I would therefore like to sincerely thank the position of Executive Director of the clinic and close collaboration with Dr. Nabil G. Seidah and his
everyone who worked on this crucial matter for the clinical research became available. I therefore had team in the field of cardiovascular diseases. I wish to warmly thank the researchers, students,
future of the IRCM, and more particularly, Louise the pleasure of announcing the appointment of employees, and Board members of the IRCM and
Lambert-Lagacé, Chair of the Board, and Monique Dr. Yves Berthiaume to this position. Renowned the Foundation for their commitment and dedication,
Jérôme-Forget, Board member, for their invaluable pulmonologist, Dr. Berthiaume will also set up a and for their contribution to our institution’s success.
assistance, and, of course, the ministry for its specialized research clinic in cystic fibrosis at the
support. IRCM, and will conduct his research projects in the
new Cellular and Molecular Lung Biology research
unit. He is Full IRCM Research Professor, and joined
Tarik Möröy, PhD


PLANNING THE FUTURE

We are continuing to implement the recommendations made in the
IRCM’s 2010-2015 strategic plan.

Regular communication with members of the Scientific Advisory Board
(SAB) occurred throughout the year. Their first scientific and institutional
evaluation visit of the IRCM took place in June 2012, and a report is
under preparation. The SAB members said to have been delighted by
their visit and impressed with the high calibre of the Institut’s researchers,
as well as by the cutting-edge technological facilities.

Committee members: Roderick R. McInnes, interim Chair (Lady Davis Research
Institute, Canada); John Aitchison (Institute for Systems Biology, USA); Peter Bruns
(Howard Hughes Medical Institute, USA); Gordon Fishell (New York University, USA);
Paul Frenette (Albert Einstein College of Medicine, USA); Walter Rosenthal (Max-
Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Germany); Alfred Singer (National Cancer
Institute, USA).


Clinical research boost Evaluation of our engineering services and
physical plant
We continued our discussions with CHUM in order
to establish extensive collaborations in clinical and An external firm was commissioned to evaluate
translational research between our two institutions. our engineering services and physical plant.
A joint CHUM-IRCM committee was created, and This evaluation is now complete and a report is
this committee made several recommendations currently being studied by the IRCM’s management
that are currently being assessed. committee.

Consolidation of our alliance with the Prioritizing the training of graduate students
Université de Montréal
A new graduate studies option in molecular and
We held many meetings with the Université de cellular medicine was established at the IRCM as
Montréal and discussed financial support and the part of the Université de Montréal’s programmes de
potential revision of our affiliation contract, among biologie moléculaire (molecular biology programs).
other topics. These discussions were fruitful and the We should welcome the first students in July 2013.
university will continue supporting the IRCM, namely You can learn more about this new program on
through programs led by the Canada Research page 76 of this annual report.
Chairs and Canada Foundation for Innovation, and
through compensation for student training carried
out at the Institut.

Recruitment of researchers

We established a 2012-2014 recruitment plan
outlining available positions for new research
professors, which was reviewed by members of
the Scientific Management and Management
committees to ensure the scientific development of
all five research divisions.

30 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT DISCOVERING | 31

OUR PRIORITIES
Conquering cancer / Living with a healthy heart / Fighting infectious diseases /

DISCOVERING Understanding embryonic development and the nervous system / Exploring the
complexity of biological systems / Participating in ethical debates

5 research divisions
36 research units
182 scientific publications, including 167 peer-reviewed journals
254 researchers and clinicians*

* * including postdoctoral fellows and students (as of August 31, 2012)


2011-2012

7 teams • 2 Canada Research Chairs • 15 publications by the division’s researchers • 1 scholarship holder from the
Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé: Katrina Podsypanina • 2 recipients of the Leaders Opportunity Fund from
the Canada Foundation for Innovation: Katrina Podsypanina and William Y. Tsang, for a total funding ot $829,680
(including the contribution from the government of Quebec) • 1 grant from the Cancer Research Society: Tarik

CONQUERING CANCER
Möröy ($120,000) • 1 grant from the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation: Jean-François Côté (principal investigator)
and Jean-Philippe Gratton (co-applicant) ($450,000) • 1 researcher active in the community: Jean-François Côté
chaired the Canadian Cancer Society’s Gala des Grands Chefs de Bromont

Cancer research division

The IRCM actively participates in efforts to cure cancer – the leading cause

DID YOU KNOW…
of death in Quebec. Cancer research is complex, as more than 100 different
types of cancer exist, affecting various organs and systems.
...according to Osteoporosis Canada, as many as two million Canadians suffer from osteoporosis. In
Researchers in this field benefit from the extensive knowledge, gained over addition, approximately 25,000 hip fractures occur in Canada every year, and 80 per cent of these
20 years of intense basic and applied research, on the mechanisms and fractures are related to osteoporosis.
causes of the malignant transformation of cells. Despite new therapeutic
options that allow us to cure a high proportion of cancer, the battle is far
from over.

At the IRCM, current studies focus on malignant transformation and
tumour growth, metastasis, and the genetic bases for predisposition to
cancer. Research is also conducted on osteopetrosis, a genetic disease
characterized by the absence of bone resorption.


NEW RISK FACTOR FOR DEVELOPING
OSTEOPOROSIS

“My research team and I identified a new gene
that modulates bone mass and could become

Cancer research division a risk factor for developing osteoporosis. We
identified this gene as a novel modulator of
bone mineral density in mice and humans.
More importantly, we showed that the human
Osteoporosis is a “silent” genetic disease characterized by low bone mineral density and deterioration of gene could represent a new susceptibility
bone tissue, which leads to increased bone fragility and risk of fracture. In all cases, the disease is caused factor for osteoporosis. Hence, this discovery
by an imbalance between the formation and resorption of bone tissue. will help identify individuals with a greater
predisposition to the disease who could
benefit from preventive measures.”
JEAN VACHER, D.Sc.
Research unit directors Full IRCM Research Professor
Director, Cellular Interactions and Development
research unit
Jean-François Côté, PhD Katrina Podsypanina, MD, PhD
Director, Cytoskeletal Organization and Cell Migration Director, Breast Cancer Biology
Associate IRCM Research Professor Assistant IRCM Research Professor
Jean-Philippe Gratton, PhD Marie Trudel, PhD
Director, Endothelial Cell Biology Director, Cancer research division
Associate IRCM Research Professor Director, Molecular Genetics and Development
Canada Research Chair in Endothelial Cell Functional Full IRCM Research Professor
Signalling
William Y. Tsang, PhD
Tarik Möröy, PhD Director, Cell Division and Centrosome Biology
Director, Hematopoiesis and Cancer Assistant IRCM Research Professor
Jean Vacher, D.Sc.
Canada Research Chair in Hematopoiesis and Immune Cell
Director, Cellular Interactions and Development
Differentiation


2011-2012

8 teams • 1 Canada Research Chair • 1 IRCM Research Chair • 78 publications by the division’s researchers • 2
scholarship holders from the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé: Rémi Rabasa-Lhoret and Jennifer Estall • 1

LIVING WITH
New Investigator Award from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research: Jennifer Estall • 6 researchers honoured:
Nabil G. Seidah received the 2011 Wilder-Penfield Prix du Québec in biomedical research; May Faraj, visiting scientist,
received the 2011 Trophée Femmes arabes in the health category; Michel Chrétien, IRCM Emeritus Professor, was
promoted to Officer of the National Order of the Legion of Honour (France); Rémi Rabasa-Lhoret received an award for

A HEALTHY
teaching excellence in health sciences from the Université de Montréal; Timothy L. Reudelhuber received the Pierre-
Bois Excellence Award from the IRCM Foundation; and Claude Lazure was Acting Scientific Director of the Fonds de
recherche du Québec – Santé from January to July 2012 • 3 grants from the Canadian Diabetes Association: Jennifer
Estall, May Faraj, Rémi Rabasa-Lhoret • 1 « bridge » grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research: May Faraj

HEART
($100,000) • 1 funding from AmorChem: Nabil G. Seidah ($250,000)

Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases research division

Cardiovascular diseases remain among the leading causes of death in the

DID YOU KNOW…
western world. At the IRCM, researchers in this division work on the biology
of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Collectively, their projects lead
to a better understanding of these diseases’ risk factors, including genetic …according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, high blood pressure affects one in five Canadians,
factors, hypertension, dyslipidemia, endothelial cell dysfunctions and and is the number one risk factor for strokes. High blood pressure is often referred to as the “silent
metabolic disorders. killer” as patients usually do not show any symptoms before complications occur.

Research is conducted by both basic and clinical researchers, thereby
increasing collaborations and, in turn, reaffirming the clinical relevance of
their work.


WHAT FACTORS ARE RESPONSIBLE
FOR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE?

Cardiovascular and Metabolic “We are studying a hormonal system
that acts on blood pressure and are
Diseases research division trying to understand the mechanisms
responsible for the activity of this
system in the body’s various tissues.
More precisely, we are interested
Blood pressure is the pressure exerted upon the walls of arteries (blood vessels) when blood circulates in the renin-angiotensin system
through the body. Normal blood pressure is defined by a measurement of 120 (systolic pressure) over 80 and the molecular determinants of
(diastolic pressure). A person with hypertension (high blood pressure) will consistently show measurements renin’s activity. As a protein that plays
of 140 over 90. Beyond these blood pressure values, the risk of complications progressively increases. We a significant role in regulating blood
know these complications: cerebrovascular disease, heart disease, and chronic kidney disease, to name a pressure, renin is a prime target for
few. But, what are the factors responsible for hypertension? the treatment of hypertension. A
better understanding of all these
activities combined will certainly
Research unit directors provide us with the answers we are
searching for.”
Christian F. Deschepper, MD Timothy L. Reudelhuber, PhD
Director, Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases research Director, Molecular Biochemistry of Hypertension
division Full IRCM Research Professor TIMOTHY L. REUDELHUBER, PhD
Director, Experimental Cardiovascular Biology Director, Molecular Biochemistry of
M. Ram Sairam, PhD Hypertension research unit
Director, Molecular Endocrinology Full IRCM Research Professor
Jennifer Estall, PhD Full IRCM Research Professor
Director, Molecular Mechanisms of Diabetes
Nabil G. Seidah, C.M., O.Q., PhD, MSRC
Assistant IRCM Research Professor
Director, Biochemical Neuroendocrinology
Pierre Larochelle, MD, PhD, FRCPC, FACP, FAHA Full IRCM Research Professor
Director, Cardiovascular Pharmacology Canada Research Chair in Precursor Proteolysis
Claude Lazure, PhD
Director, Neuropeptide Structure and Metabolism
Rémi Rabasa-Lhoret, MD, PhD
Director, Metabolic Diseases
J.A. DeSève Chair of Excellence


2011-2012

FIGHTING
INFECTIOUS
6 teams • 4 Canada Research Chairs • 1 IRCM Research Chair • 17 publications by the
division’s researchers • 2 operating grants from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research:
Paul Jolicoeur, André Veillette ($968,320) • 1 grant from the Cancer Research Society: Javier

DISEASES
M. Di Noia ($120,000) • 1 researcher promoted to associate professor-researcher at the
Université de Montréal: Javier M. Di Noia

Immunity and Viral Infections research division

Allergic reactions, respiratory tract diseases and autoimmune diseases are
growing problems in our society. The resurgence of infectious diseases
thought to have been eradicated and the emergence of new viruses require
DID YOU KNOW…
...with over 25 million deaths over the past three decades, HIV is causing one
major research efforts in the field of immune system diseases.
of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases. According to the World Health
Organization, approximately 34 million people were living with HIV/AIDS in
This research division groups together scientists interested, on one hand, by 2010.
the development of immune cells and the regulation of their functions, and
on the other hand, by viral infections, especially those involving viruses that
infect immune cells.

Collectively, the researchers’ studies lead to a better understanding of
immune cell regulation in normal immune responses and during diseases
such as autoimmune diseases, viral infections and immunodeficiency.


WHY DEVELOP A MOUSE MODEL OF AIDS?

“One of my team’s main research projects
is the understanding of the HIV-1 virus. To
Immunity and Viral achieve this, our laboratory is interested
in developing mice models of AIDS. For

Infections research division example, to create one of these models, we
used a promoter of the CD4 human gene
(a receptor of HIV-1) to express the HIV-1
genome in transgenic mice, in the same cells
Paul Jolicoeur has earned degrees in medicine and endocrinology from the Université Laval. He joined that are normally infected in individuals with
the IRCM in 1976. At the time, cloning technologies were not yet discovered and the AIDS virus was not HIV-1. These mice developed many similar
yet known. Since then, Dr. Jolicoeur has become a major player in the field of HIV/AIDS by creating phenotypes to those observed in patients with
an animal model of the disease in mice. His work represents a significant and vital contribution to the AIDS, such as the loss and activation of CD4
international scientific community for the study of this disease. t-cells, thymic atrophy, immunodeficiency,
weight loss, abnormal growth, premature
death and a kidney disease typical of AIDS.
Research unit directors Such models are useful not only to understand
the disease, but also to eventually develop a
Éric A. Cohen, PhD Paul Jolicoeur, MD, PhD vaccine against HIV-1.”
Director, Immunity and Viral Infections research division Director, Molecular Biology
Director, Human Retrovirology Full IRCM Research Professor PAUL JOLICOEUR, MD, PhD
Canada Research Chair in Human Retrovirology Canada Research Chair in Studies of Pathogenesis of Director, Molecular Biology research unit
Retrovirus-Induced Diseases Full IRCM Research Professor
Javier Marcelo Di Noia, PhD Canada Research Chair in Studies of Pathogenesis of
Director, Mechanisms of Genetic Diversity Woong-Kyung Suh, PhD Retrovirus-Induced Diseases
Associate IRCM Research Professor Director, Immune Regulation
Canada Research Chair in Genetic Diversity Assistant IRCM Research Professor
Hua Gu, PhD André Veillette, MD, MSRC
Director, Molecular Immunology Director, Molecular Oncology
Full IRCM Research Professor Full IRCM Research Professor
André-Aisenstadt Chair of Excellence in Immunology Canada Research Chair in Immune System Signalling

UNDERSTANDING

THE NERVOUS 2011-2012

SYSTEM / 7 teams • 1 Canada Research Chair • 23 publications by the division’s researchers

PARTICIPATING
• 2 honoured researchers: Frédéric Charron received the 2012 Young Investigator
Award from the Canadian Association for Neuroscience; Éric Racine was elected a
member of the Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives (DABI) • 1 operating grant from

IN ETHICAL
the Canadian Institutes of Health Research: Frédéric Charron ($796,365) • 1 grant
from the Foundation Fighting Blindness: Michel Cayouette ($295,743) • 1 Canada
Research Chair renewal: Marie Kmita • 1 researcher promoted to associate
professor-researcher at the Université de Montréal: Éric Racine

DEBATES Neurobiology and Development research division

Embryonic development is carefully controlled by cellular and molecular mechanisms that
ensure the proper functioning of organs in adults. The disruption of these mechanisms often
causes diseases, such as cancer, Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s diseases.
DID YOU KNOW…
... the generation of baby boomers, those born between 1946 and 1956,
Researchers in this division study the basic mechanisms of development and provide started turning 65 in 2011. It is also known that the prevalence of
new considerations for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, blindness, muscular neurodegenerative diseases increases with age. We can therefore expect
dystrophies and hormone deficiencies. a growing portion of the population to be affected by these pathologies
(INSPQ, 2010).
In addition, research at the IRCM is conducted in the emerging field of neuroethics. Work
in this area is designed to improve our knowledge of the ethical challenges that arise from
neurosciences in terms of health care, public information and prevention in neurology,
psychiatry and neurosurgery.


IS IT POSSIBLE TO RECONNECT DAMAGED
AXONS?

“The nervous system is not the only system
Neurobiology and Development formed during human embryonic development.
Blood vessels are also organized into a very

research division complex network, which led to the idea that
certain molecules could be reused by both
the nervous system and the vascular system.
We recently discovered that a key molecule
The brain is made up of billions of neurons organized into a complex network. The inaccurate connection of the vascular system (VEGF) can attract
of these neurons has severe consequences on the nervous system’s sensory, motor and cognitive functions. nervous system axons to their targets. More
To properly form neural circuits, developing axons (long extensions that form the nerves) need molecules specifically, we identified Flk-1 as the receptor
to guide them towards their target. responsible for this effect, making it a prime
target for the development of therapies
to re-grow axons following lesions of the
Research unit directors central nervous system or neurodegenerative
diseases.”
Michel Cayouette, PhD Artur Kania, PhD
FRÉDÉRIC CHARRON, PhD
Director, Neurobiology and Development research division Director, Neural Circuit Development
Director, Molecular Biology of Neural Development
Director, Cellular Neurobiology Associate IRCM Research Professor
research unit
Associate IRCM Research Professor
Marie Kmita, PhD Associate IRCM Research Professor
Frédéric Charron, PhD Director, Genetics and Development
Director, Molecular Biology of Neural Development Associate IRCM Research Professor
Associate IRCM Research Professor Canada Research Chair in Molecular Embryology and
Genetics
Jacques Drouin, D.Sc., MSRC
Director, Molecular Genetics Éric Racine, PhD
Full IRCM Research Professor Director, Neuroethics
David R. Hipfner, PhD
Director, Epithelial Cell Biology


EXPLORING THE 2011-2012

COMPLEXITY 8 teams • 34 publications by the division’s researchers • 1 honoured researcher: Yvan

OF BIOLOGICAL
Guindon received the 2012 Alfred Bader Award from the Canadian Society for Chemistry
and was appointed Knight of the Ordre national du Québec • 1 scholarship holder from
the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé: François Robert • 1 grant from the National

SYSTEMS
Institutes of Health: Peter W. Schiller ($1,000,000) • 1 grant from the Cancer Research
Society: Jacques Archambault ($120,000)

Systems Biology and Medicinal Chemistry research division

Systems biology is a rapidly expanding area of research. It examines the immense
complexity of biological systems in order to gain a better understanding of the way
cells function. The IRCM has seized the opportunity to play a leading role in the DID YOU KNOW…
revolution of this emerging discipline. …genomics is the study of a living being’s complete genetic information
(DNA). Researchers in this field are working towards mapping human genes
The research units working in this division address questions that are central to by using sequencing methods, which will help them understand why, among
understanding normal cell functions and their deregulation in diseases, such as other questions, certain people become sick when others remain healthy.
cancer and viral infections.

The medicinal chemistry component of this division focuses on chemical biology, an
area of interdisciplinary research at the crossroads between chemistry and biology.
This is where expertise in synthesizing organic molecules is applied to solving
problems in cell and molecular biology.


A STEP CLOSER TO UNDERSTANDING THE
FUNCTION OF GENES

“By using modern functional genomics tools, our
Systems Biology and Medicinal research team confirmed the first hypothesis
that transcription operates in a uniform way

Chemistry research division across virtually all genes. As misregulation of
transcription often underlies genetic diseases
and cancer, this breakthrough provides critical
insights that could one day lead to new
By examining a small number of genes, certain pioneering studies that have been long-accepted in the treatments.”
field of molecular biology had shown that phosphorylation of RNA polymerase II – one of the most
important regulation mechanisms for cells – always occurred in the same prescribed pattern during FRANÇOIS ROBERT, PhD
transcription. However, recent genome-wide analyses challenged this idea by suggesting that this process Director, Systems Biology and Medicinal Chemistry
research division
was not uniform across different genes. The latter model is very controversial, because it is unclear how, Director, Chromatin and Genomic Expression research unit
or why, transcription could work in such radically different ways from one gene to the next. Associate IRCM Research Professor

Research unit directors

Jacques Archambault, PhD Éric Lécuyer, PhD
Director, Molecular Virology Director, RNA Biology
Full IRCM Research Professor Assistant IRCM Research Professor
Benoit Coulombe, PhD Marlene Oeffinger, PhD
Director, Gene Transcription and Proteomics Director, Ribonucleoprotein Biochemistry
Full IRCM Research Professor Assistant IRCM Research Professor
Yvan Guindon, C.M., PhD, MSRC François Robert, PhD
Director, Bioorganic Chemistry Director, Systems Biology and Medicinal Chemistry research
Full IRCM Research Professor division
Director, Chromatin and Genomic Expression
Benjamin Haibe-Kains, PhD
Director, bioinformatics and computational genomics
Assistant IRCM Research Professor Peter W. Schiller, O.Q., PhD, MSRC
Director, Chemical Biology and Peptide Research

52 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT TREATING | 53

IRCM CLINIC
A multidisciplinary team
Doctors, nutritionists, kinesiologists, nurses
T R E AT I N G
hypertension – cholestErol – DIABETES AND OBESITY
3 specialized research clinics
Hypertension clinic
Nutrition, metabolism and atherosclerosis clinic
Obesity, metabolism and diabetes clinic


ACCELERATING
The IRCM Clinic boasts three
specialized research clinics in the
fields of hypertension, cholesterol,

CLINICAL
and diabetes. Clinical research
protocols are regularly conducted,
thus contributing to the

RESEARCH
development of new diagnostic
methods, the identification of new
biochemical or genetic markers
for cardiovascular diseases, and
the evaluation of new therapeutic The IRCM’s Outpatient Clinic handles over 16,000 patient visits per year. The
approaches. This research IRCM offers its clinical researchers the unique opportunity to follow their patients’
progress on site thanks to its external consultation services. The Institut’s
bridges the gap between basic infrastructure and distinctive conceptual model allows for clinical and translational
laboratory research and its clinical research, within the framework of an institution devoted to basic research.
application in humans. The Institut’s clinic and clinical research are funded directly by the IRCM, and
also receive funding from private sources, such as the pharmaceutical industry,
government agencies and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. The IRCM
Clinic is affiliated with the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal.

56 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT TReating | 57

The Nutrition, Metabolism and Atherosclerosis Clinic’s research activity The Hypertension clinic assesses and treats patients referred for their high
deals with the characterization and treatment of hyperlipidemia, that is to say blood pressure. The research protocols study new diagnostic methods and
the increase of cholesterol or other fats in the blood. Experts are studying the treatments for hypertension. Studies are also conducted to better understand
nutritional, genetic, biochemical, pharmacological, and molecular components the role of the autonomic nervous system in hypertension and its effects on
of these diseases to better understand what causes them and provide the vascular function.
appropriate treatment.

Nutrition, metabolism and atherosclerosis clinic Hypertension clinic

DID YOU KNOW… DID YOU KNOW…
... the liver produces the majority (80 per cent) of the cholesterol used by …according to the Société québécoise d’hypertension artérielle, one in
the body for various functions. The other 20 per cent comes from the food five adults in Canada suffers from hypertension. The risk of developing
we eat, particularly animal products. hypertension increases with age, in such a way that approximately 50 per
cent of men or women aged over 60 have high blood pressure.


Permanent staff – medical personnel

The Obesity, Metabolism and Diabetes clinic allows experts to follow the
Directors Nurses Kinesiologists
progress of patients suffering from obesity and various metabolic disorders, Robert Dufour Martine Gauthier, head nurse Philippe Briand
and, more particularly, patients with type-1 and type-2 diabetes. Patients benefit Pierre Larochelle Lucienne Bourque Corinne Suppere
from the support of a multidisciplinary team. Numerous research projects are Rémi Rabasa-Lhoret Maryse Dallaire
Joanie Houle Project coordinator
ongoing, including the development of an artificial external pancreas and the Nutritionists
Hélène Larchevêque Virginie Messier
identification of new relationships between hypercholesterolemia and the risk Chantal Blais
Jennifer Levasseur
Sonia Fortin
of developing type-2 diabetes. Annabelle Mathieu Technicians
Cherylene Pinaroc Annie Tardif
Diane Mignault

Obesity, metabolism and diabetes clinic

DID YOU KNOW…
…according to Diabetes Québec, an estimated 760,000 people in Quebec
have diabetes, 200,000 of whom are unaware that they have the disease.
The World Health Organization predicts that the number of people with
diabetes will double by 2025, making diabetes the new epidemic.

Hélène Larchevêque, Lucienne Bourque, Joanie Houle, Martine Gauthier


What is the
nutritionist’s role
DID YOU KNOW…
…as early as the 19th century, a French
at the IRCM Clinic?
gastronome, Brillat-Savarin, set the table
Nutritionists at the IRCM evaluate patients’ eating habits, develop treatment
for the notion that food has a significant
influence on the human body’s function- plans adapted to the needs of each person and supervise their effectiveness.
ing. In fact, we owe him this famous quote: They also advise patients to help them prevent disease, as well as maintain
“Tell me what you eat, and I will tell you or restore their health.
what you are.”
“For example, the Éducoeur study that we conducted at the IRCM showed that
Today, the increasing variety of food
at our disposal complicates the healthy people at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases could, with a nutritional
choices consumers should be making. In program tailored to their needs, improve many of the risk factors such as
addition, for adults and children alike, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and weight. With an evaluation,
chronic diseases are on the rise because of practical advice, accompanied visits to the grocery store and tastings of
inadequate lifestyles. lesser-known ingredients, we were able to motivate these individuals with
better eating habits and help them correct these risk factors.”

CHANTAL BLAIS, Dt.P., BSc
Head of the nutrition department, IRCM Clinic

62 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT INNOVATING | 63

Core facilities and technology platforms
8 core facilities
Animal facilities and animal experimentation | Bioinformatics | Chemical biology | Flow cytometry |
Histology | Microscopy and imaging | Molecular biology and functional genomics |
Transgenesis and microinjection

I N N O VAT I N G 3 ultra-specialized research platforms
National platform for human interactome mapping
8 core facilities Proteomics discovery platform
3 research platforms
Research platform on obesity, metabolism and diabetes (PROMD)

Electrophysiology | Molecular modelling | Nuclear magnetic resonance | Protein sequencer |
Specialized equipment

50 people serving research


STRENGTHENING
This year, the IRCM set up a
Bioinformatics core facility. Supervised
by Dr. Benjamin Haibe-Kains, this

OUR
2011-2012
new facility aims at providing support
to scientists, from the IRCM and the

TECHNOLOGICAL
scientific community, in the analysis
of biological and clinical data, and
particularly next-generation genomic

ADVANTAGE
data. With the development of
new technologies generating large
amounts of biological data, including
next-generation sequencing, the To facilitate innovation, the IRCM ensures that it provides its researchers with the
complexity of many studies now lies best technologies. The IRCM’s core facilities thereby allow researchers to remain
at the forefront of modern science, achieve important scientific breakthroughs, and
in the computational analysis of such offer cutting-edge training to tomorrow’s scientists.
data. This analysis, which has become
Over the years, its core facilities and technology platforms have proven to be
impossible to complete “manually”, extremely useful and effective. Certain discoveries may not have been possible
now requires the development of without these state-of-the-art resources.

algorithms and support from personnel
specialized in bioinformatics.


“Flow cytometry is a specialized technique
that has existed for several years and is
currently used by many IRCM researchers.
Over the years, after numerous technical
modifications, the level of sophistication
has greatly increased and now allows for
more effective sorting and more complex
approaches. For example, in my laboratory,
we are interested in intracellular organelles,
much smaller than cells. We incorporated
a fluorescent protein specifically in the
organelles we are studying, namely the
endocrine secretion granules (pituitary or
pancreatic) or the endosomes. We therefore
needed to optimize the cytometer’s
parameters in order for the device to “see”
FLOW CYTOMETRY CORE FACILITY
and sort extremely small particles while
preserving their structural integrity. This
work was complex and required much
effort. Today, as a result, we have a brand
new method at our disposal that was made DID YOU KNOW…
possible thanks to the expertise of the ...flow cytometry is a technique that can analyse individual cells, which offers, among other things, a quick
IRCM’s flow cytometry team.” method for researchers to confirm the transfer of a gene using fluorescent markers.

CLAUDE LAZURE, Phd The technique consists of streaming cells very quickly, one cell behind the other, through a laser beam. The
Director, Neuropeptide Structure and Metabolism
research unit device used, the cytometer, can analyze cells individually according to numerous parameters, at the speed
Full IRCM Research Professor of several thousand particles per second. The light, reemitted by diffraction and fluorescence, enables
the classification and sorting of cells in accordance with several criteria. A computer then calculates the
statistical data associated with the measured parameters.

68 | 2011-2012 IRCM ANNUAL REPORT INNOVATING | 69

Research services

Executive Director: Louis-Gilles Durand | Assistant Director: Judith Cotton-Montpetit

Core facilities

Animal experimentation and animal facilities Director: Ion-Ovidiu Jumanca
Animal facilities Head: Julie D’amours
Animal physiology Head: Manon Laprise
Bioinformatics Head: Rashad El-Badrawi | Expert advisor: Benjamin Haibe-Kains
Chemical biology Contact person: David Gagnon | Expert advisor: Jacques Archambault
Flow Cytometry Head: Éric Massicotte | Contact person: André Veillette
Histology Head: Dominique Lauzier
Microscopy and imaging Head: Dominic Filion
MICROSCOPY AND IMAGING CORE FACILITY Molecular biology and functional genomics Head: Odile Neyret | Expert advisor: François Robert
Transgenesis and microinjection Director: Qinzhang Zhu | Supervisor: André Veillette

DID YOU KNOW… Technology platforms

...a jellyfish contributed to the explosion of fluorescence in microscopy. The Green Proteomics discovery platform Director: Benoit Coulombe
Fluorescent Protein (GFP), a molecule discovered in 1962 and now commonly used in Mass spectrometry and proteomics Head: Denis Faubert
microscopy, has existed for over 160 million years in a bioluminescent jellyfish called Research platform on obesity,
Aequorea Victoria. Researchers at the IRCM use fluorescent microscopy, a technique metabolism and diabetes (PROMD) Director: Rémi Rabasa-Lhoret | Contact person: Diane Mignault
that uses the light emitted by fluorescent molecules to form an image of various National platform for human interactome mapping Director: Benoit Coulombe
samples, such as live or fixed cells and tissues. They can thus obtain digital data
that would otherwise require many hours of manual data manipulation, including the Other specialized services
quantity of cells, the relative fluorescent intensity, surface measures and speed of
movement. Electrophysiology Contact persons: Artur Kania, Michel Paquet
Molecular modelling Contact persons: Peter W. Schiller, Brian Wilkes
Nuclear magnetic resonance Contact persons: Yvan Guindon, Michel Prévost
Protein sequencer Contact person: Claude Lazure
Specialized equipment Head: Richard Cimon

2012 ircm annual_report

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