New research led by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute scientist Dr. Silke Appel-Cresswell is the first to examine whether a multi-strain probiotic could help relieve anxiety symptoms among people with Parkinson’s disease. 

A progressive nervous system disorder that over 100,000 Canadians live with, Parkinson’s often causes muscle rigidity linked to reduced dopamine levels, along with tremors or slowed movements.

Up until now, normal levels of brain myelin—a key indicator of conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer’s disease and concussion—were not well characterized, making the use of it as a diagnostic tool similar to navigating a maze without a map. A new scientific study led by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Shannon Kolind is the first to discover not only a robust atlas of brain myelin levels, but the key role age plays in their trajectory.  

Research from Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute scientist Dr. Sriram Subramaniam produced molecular images of how mutations in the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, are driving infection. A global first-of-its-kind, the three-dimensional images of the N501Y spike protein mutation provide clues for future treatment interventions.

Though collaborative efforts and meaningful partnerships, new ideas and innovations move from bench to bedside, improving health care practices and patient outcomes. Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute is proud to support research through Team Grant mentorships, which facilitate Vancouver Coastal Health staff and clinicians to work with experienced investigators to share knowledge and build connections. These grants enhance health care delivery by supporting cooperative practice-based research projects aimed at addressing current health care challenges. 

Shown to be successful in both virtual and in community-based settings, the Graded Repetitive Arm Supplementary Program (GRASP)—designed by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Janice Eng—puts recovery into the hands of stroke patients. According to the results of two recent studies led by Eng, GRASP exercises significantly improved stroke patients’ arm and hand function.

Many of us are familiar with X-rays, the most common type of medical imaging. But how concerned should we be about the photons it and other imaging techniques expose us to when checking our bodies for damage or illness? Our Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute expert, Dr. Vesna Sossi, puts the risks and benefits into perspective based on the science.