Prion Disease Research

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Prion disease such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans, mad cow disease or chronic wasting disease (CWD) of cervids are infectious neurodegenerative disorders for which no treatment exists. The zoonotic potential of CWD likely has been underestimated, raising the need for new treatment options. My research program works towards validating novel therapeutic drugs with significant translational potential, and understanding the impact of prions on neuronal metabolism. Elucidating determinants of successful oral or mother-to-offspring transmission of CWD prions will enhance our understanding of prion strain evolution and transmission properties. Overall, my studies serve human, animal and environmental health in Canada and worldwide.