PGP 2008-2009 | PGP 2009-2010 | PGP 2010-2011
SRP 2009-2010 | SRP 2010-2011
DAP: 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011
PPG: 2008 | 2009 | 2010
SRI in OA 2003-2008 | SRI in IJD 2006-2011 | SRI in BIO 2008-2012
SRID: 2007-2008 | 2006-2007 | 2005-2006 | 2004-2005 | 2003-2005 | 2002-2004

Research Grants Awards

Research funding: 2009

DAP 2009

Identification of a novel TGF-β antagonist as a therapeutic agent for osteoarthritis

Anie Philip, McGill University Health Centre

Abstract:
We have discovered a novel protein called CD109 that binds the multifunctional growth TGF-β and neutralize its effects on cell behavior. CD109 may have a potential application for the treatment of arthritis. We will study the ability of CD109 to associate and inhibit TGF-β, with the overall goal of using it as an adjuvant therapy to reduce the side effects of administered TGF-β, to promote cartilage repair in OA patients. We will test CD109 on a mouse model of OA to determine if it can reduce the adverse side effects of TGF-β without interfering with the beneficial effects of TGF-β on cartilage repair. The proposed research is unique because it studies a protein that has never been explored in cartilage cells. Our early findings suggest that CD109 has potential therapeutic value in the treatment of OA.

A Novel Treatment for Osteoarthritis

Rita Kandel, Mount Sinai Hospital

Abstract:
This project investigates the efficacy of a naturally occurring, biodegradable molecule (polyphosphate) on the progression of osteoarthritis in an animal model. As this agent has never been used for this purpose it represents an innovative approach to the treatment of osteoarthritis.

A New Approach to Measuring Subjective Health Outcomes: Beyond IRT

Jacek Kopec, Arthritis Research Centre of Canada

Abstract:
The purpose of this project is to test a new standardized questionnaire to measure the impact of disease on the person's abilities and experiences. A prototype questionnaire has been developed through focus groups. In the current study, the questionnaire will be finalized and data will be collected online from a large group of persons with arthritis and other conditions across Canada. If the study is successful, a comprehensive measurement system, based on the same principles, will be developed.

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