Searching for Alternative Plasticizers for Red Blood Cell Storage Bags
This comparative study suggests that the current DEHP plasticizer is best at preserving RBC quality, and DINCH, an alternative plasticizer may also be feasible for blood storage bag production.
Dr. Conway invited to co-lead a Canadian Network on Venous Thromboembolism
Ed Conway, the Director of the UBC Centre for Blood Research (CBR), will co-lead the translational/basic science platform of a new national research network focused on venous thromboembolism (VTE) — the first such network in the world.
Direct Oral Anticoagulants: CBR Researchers Join the Action
While saving countless lives, conventional anticoagulants require frequent injections and regular doctor visits to monitor clotting parameters. However, treatment options are changing with the emergence of a new generation of anticoagulants – direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs).
Emerging Pathogens: Transfusion is More Than Just Blood
We can only test for what we know – the reactive strategies of pathogen identification, testing development, and screening allows the emerging pathogen to distribute widely before clinical presentation is recognized and understood; such was the case for HIV in the 80’s.
The CBR Introducing “Blood Labs” to Local High Schools
The CBR is excited to introduce a new program that combines outreach, teaching and science communication – all into one neat package. Two months ago, four CBR graduate students formed the Outreach Founding Committee and undertook designing fun lab activities for high school students. To differentiate themselves from other similar initiatives, the CBR outreach focuses specifically on blood-related labs.
Networking that’s Right for You
One way to potentially lower this stress is to approach networking differently. Sweta Rajan, the Manager of Training Programs at the Centre for Drug Research and Development (CDRD), proposes that the goal of networking is not to “market” oneself to potential employers, but rather to discover. Networking can offer opportunities to learn about what certain jobs entail, as well as the types of jobs that even exist.
How to Become a Good Mentor
Being a good mentor gives one an excellent opportunity to grow and develop ourselves in several valuable skills like communication, leadership and management. Given that mentorship is so important, what are some of the attributes of a good mentor?
Gordon Research Seminar and Conference on Matrix Metalloproteinases
There were also talks on the development of protease inhibitors (small molecules, peptides and monoclonal antibodies) and how to apply this knowledge in translational research. The topics ranged from bench side to bed side and how these proteases modulate all aspects of biology and human diseases by precisely cutting specific portions of proteins to either activate or inactive them.
CBR Research Day 2015: In Review
The annual CBR Research Day is held to celebrate the end of the Summer Studentship Program, wherein undergraduates embarked on a research project under the expert guidance of the CBR members. This year, the day began with enthusiastic summer students gathering
Insight into tumor metastasis: inner workings of the sialyltransferases
Modification of NCAM with polySia promotes migration of cells, a process that is critical for both the development of the embryonic brain and neural plasticity of the adult brain. Interestingly, elevated levels of polySia have been implicated in the malignant potential of tumors, tumor metastasis and poor clinical prognosis.