Serge McGraw

Serge McGraw, PhD

23 Nov 2017

Address

Research interests

  • Embryonic development
  • Prenatal Exposure to alcohol
  • Epigenetic modifications and disturbance
  • Stem cell and cell fate

Our lab explores the role of epigenetic dysregulation in developmental and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Epigenetic modifications are chemical tags added to DNA or the proteins (histones) that compact and organize it. These modifications help regulate gene activity, turning genes on or off during specific stages of development, without altering the underlying DNA sequence. During embryonic development, cells follow complex programs controlled by dynamic changes in these epigenetic marks. Disruptions in this embryonic epigenetic programming can increase vulnerability to developmental and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Serge McGraw’s research program investigates how early epigenetic disruptions lead to such disorders, with three main focus areas:

  1. How inherited epigenetic errors affect early embryonic development.
  2. How epigenetic errors in brain cells contribute to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
  3. How mutations in epigenetic genes (e.g., DNMT3A) disrupt brain cell identity and function in overgrowth and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Tatton-Brown-Rahman Syndrome (TBRS).

Using genetic and environmental models, including mouse embryos, mouse embryonic stem cells, patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), neurons, and 3D cortical organoids, as well as multi-omics sequencing and bioinformatic approaches, our work examines both normal and disrupted epigenetic processes to uncover the mechanisms underlying (neuro)developmental disorders in children. We study how early disruptions in brain-related epigenetic programs can alter cell fate, affect cellular development and function, and lead to neurodevelopmental disorders. Our research aims to pave the way for targeted epigenetic therapies to treat these brain disorders.

Members of the laboratory

Elizabeth Elder, MSc
PhD student
elder.elizabeth@icloud.com

Josianne Clavel
PhD student
josianne.clavel@umontreal.ca

Michelle Robb
MSc student
michelle.robb@umontreal.ca

Diego Arturo Camacho Hernandez
MSc student
diego.arturo.camacho.hernandez@umontreal.ca

Charlotte Le Monies de Sagazan
MSc student
charlotte.le.monies.de.sagazan@umontreal.ca

Carlos Michel Mourra Diaz
MSc student
carlos.michel.mourra.diaz@umontreal.ca

Thomas Dupas PhD
Postdoc
thomasdupas.pro@gmail.com

Anthony Lemieux
Bioinformatician
anthony.lemieux@umontreal.ca 

Karine Doiron, PhD
Research associate, Lab Manager
karine.doiron@umontreal.ca

Publications

SEE SCOPUS

Loydie A. Jerome-Majewska, PhD

23 Nov 2017

Address

  • 514 934 1934 Ext. 23279
  • loydie.majewska@mcgill.ca
  • McGill University Health
    Centre Glen Site
    1001, boul. Décarie,
    EM02210,
    Montréal, QC, H4A 3J1

Research interests

  • Labryrinth Layer Development
  • Craniofacial Development

Our laboratory uses the mouse model to identify and characterize expression and function of genes important for normal development. Our placental project focuses on how the chorion and the allantois, two extraembryonic tissues, interact to form the labyrinth placenta. For the craniofacial projects in the laboratory we used reverse genetics, and next generation sequencing to identify genes important for craniofacial development. We identified a number of candidate genes important in vesicular transport and splicing, and are characterizing the role of these genes on morphogenesis and differentiation of the pharyngeal apparatus – the precursor of the face and neck.

Members of the laboratory

Marie-Claude Beauchamp, PhD
Research associate
marie-claude.beauchamp2@mail.mcgill.ca

Wenyang Hou, MSc
PhD student
wenyang.hou@gmail.com

Sabrina Shameen Alam, MSc
PhD student
sabrinalam.cu.bd@gmail.com

Wesley Chan
MSc student
Wesley.chan2@mail.mcgill.ca

Vafa Keser, MSc
PhD student
vafa_salimova@yahoo.com

Sevane Mugashi
Undergraduate student

Maria Tolymbek
Undergraduate student

Publications

SEE SCOPUS

Yojiro Yamanaka, PhD

13 Oct 2017

Address

Research interests

  • Evolution and development of female reproductive tracts in vertebrates
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Microcirculation during puberty and regular hormonnal cycles and menopause

Dr. Yamanaka is a developmental biologist and cancer researcher. His research laboratory is at Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, Department of Human Genetics, McGill University. His research aims to understand the concepts shaping live organisms. He is interested in cellular shape, genome, development, evolution, and cancer. For the last 5 years, his lab is focusing on the development of the female reproductive tract and ovarian cancer initiation.

He completed his PhD in Medical Science at Osaka University, Japan in 1997, where he studied Interleukin-6 signal transduction. After a short postdoctoral training in Japan in developmental biology studying zebrafish dorsal-ventral axis specification, he joined Dr. Janet Rossant’lab at Mt. Sinai Hospital and then SickKids Hospital in Toronto to study mouse preimplantation development. In 2009, he was recruited to McGill University, Montreal. He is currently an Associate Professor at Goodman Cancer Institute, Department of Human Genetics. He is also the Scientific Director of McGill Integrated Core for Animal modeling (MICAM). He is a member of McGill Regenerative Medicine (MRM) Network and Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development (CRRD).

My research aims to understand the concepts shaping live-organisms. I am interested in cellular shape, genome, development, evolution ad cancer.

Members of the laboratory

Alexandra Viscotchi
Undergraduate
alexandra.viscotchi@mail.mcgill.ca

Warwick Pitman
MSc/PhD student
warwick.pitman@mail.mcgill.ca

Stephanya Zimakas
MSc student
stephanya.zimakas@mail.mcgill.ca

Hengameh Kazemdarvish, MSc
PhD student
hengameh.kazemdarvish@mail.mcgill.ca

Keerthana Harwalkar
PhD student
keerthana.harwalkar@mail.mcgill.ca

Dardan Konjusha, PhD
Postdoc fellow
dardan.konjusha@mcgill.ca

Emily Tang, PhD
Postdoc fellow
emily.tang@mail.mcgill.ca

Nobuko Yamanaka, MSc
Research assistant
nobuko.yamanaka@mcgill.ca

Publications

See Scopus

Robert S. Viger, PhD

13 Oct 2017

Address

Research interests

  • Mammalian sex determination and differentiation
  • Regulation of gonad-specific gene expression
  • Regulation of hormone

My laboratory is interested in defining the transcriptional regulatory pathways that are involved in establishing mammalian sex determination (i.e., the formation of a testis or an ovary) and sex differentiation (i.e., the development of internal and external genitalia and therefore the male or female phenotype). We are also interested in understanding the transcriptional control of gonadal gene expression, especially in the somatic cell types of the testis (Sertoli cell, Leydig cell). Over the past several years, our main focus has been to understand the physiological roles played by members of the GATA family of transcription factors. The GATA family of factors is composed of six zinc finger DNA-binding proteins (named GATA1 to GATA6) that recognize the consensus DNA sequence WGATAR found in the regulatory region of several genes required for the differentiation and/or morphogenesis of numerous vital organs. These factors were first identified as major developmental determinants of both the hematopoietic and cardiac systems.

Today, they are known to be expressed in a wide variety of tissues where they act as critical regulators of developmental- and cell-specific gene expression. This includes multiple endocrine organs such as the pituitary, pancreas, adrenals, and gonads. Using basic molecular biology methodologies (promoter characterization studies) and various cell line models, we have contributed significantly to better understanding what genes and gene networks these factors target and regulate. Indeed, the scope of GATA action has broadened to include early gonadal development, sex differentiation, and steroidogenesis. GATA factors and in particular GATA4 regulate a plethora of genes that play essential roles throughout gonadal ontogeny. These include those expressed early in gonadal development (Sry, Sox9, Amh, Dmrt1) and those acting later in the fetal and adult gonads (Inha, Star, Cyp11a1, Cyp19a1, and many others).We h

ave recent evidence that GATA4 is an essential regulator of steroidogenesis. Interestingly, aberrant GATA function is known to be linked with some human diseases, and we believe that the reproductive system will be no exception. Research into the role of the GATA family of transcription factors in reproductive function has already led to the potential implication of these factors in several human syndromes and/or pathologies such as breast cancer, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and phenotypic sex reversal associated with insufficient AMH expression. Our ultimate goal is to hopefully translate our work into promising new therapies for the treatment and prevention of these pathologies and other diseases that affect reproductive health.

Members of the laboratory

Marie France Bouchard, PhD
Research assistant
Marie-France.Bouchard@crchudequebec.ulaval.ca

Léa Lafranchise
Graduated student
lea.lafranchise.1@ulaval.ca

Publications

SEE SCOPUS

Jacques J. Tremblay, MSc, PhD, LLB

13 Oct 2017

Address

Research interests

  • Leydig cell differentiation and function
  • Male sexual differentiation
  • Transcription factors and regulation of gene expression

Dr. Tremblay’s research program is at the interface of developmental biology, endocrinology, and cellular and molecular biology. His team studies the molecular mechanisms of male sexual differentiation. Mutations in key genes involved in male sexual differentiation are responsible for an atypical developmental trajectory known as Differences in Sex Development (DSD).

Dr. Tremblay’s team is studying new genes that could help explain certain cases of DSD in humans. In addition, Dr. Tremblay is interested in the differentiation and function of Leydig cells, endocrine cells that produce the steroid hormone testosterone. Inadequate levels of steroid hormones are implicated in many human pathologies, including cancers, PCOS, endometriosis, autoimmune diseases and inflammation. As well as being important for male reproductive health, adequate levels of testosterone are also essential for men’s general health. Understanding how this system functions normally, by studying Leydig cells, will provide essential information that will ultimately enable better diagnosis and treatment of these pathologies.

Although various hormones and signaling molecules have been implicated in male sexual differentiation and Leydig cell differentiation and function, the transcription factors downstream of these pathways remain poorly understood. To date, his team has identified several transcription factors, some never before reported in the gonad or Leydig cells. Some are present exclusively in the male gonad, or at specific times in Leydig cells, while others mark stem Leydig cells. A better understanding of the differentiation of stem Leydig cells residing in the adult testis could enable the development of innovative treatments for men suffering from hypogonadism.

In addition, their work on hormone-induced signaling pathways in Leydig cells has revealed the involvement of two antagonistic kinases; CAMKI stimulates while AMPK is a molecular brake that rapidly shuts down steroid hormone production, which has many clinical implications. Dr. Tremblay’s work involves classical molecular and cell biology, gene editing, animal models, microscopy, proteomics, transcriptomics and bioinformatics.

Members of the laboratory

Laurie Boudreau, BSc
MSc student
laurie.boudreau.3@ulaval.ca

Karine de Mattos, DMV, MSc
PhD student
karine.de-mattos.1@ulaval.ca

Kenley Joule Pierre, MSc
PhD student
kenley-joule.pierre.1@ulaval.ca

Nicholas M. Robert, PhD
Research assistant
Nicholas.Robert@crchudequebec.ulaval.ca

Publications

See Scopus

Rima Slim, PhD

13 Oct 2017

Address

  • 514 934-1934 Ext. 44550
  • rima.slim@muhc.mcgill.ca
  • http://www.mcgill.ca/rslimlab/
  • McGill University Health Center Research Institute
    Glen site,
    EM03210 (office) E012379 (lab)
    1001, boul. Décarie,
    Montréal, Québec H4A 3J1

    Ext. 44550.
    Laboratoire, poste 44519.
    Télécopieur : 514 933-4149 ou 514 933-4673

Research interests

  • Identify new genes responsible for recurrent fetal loss.
  • Elucidate the mechanisms by which the identified genes lead to recurrent fetal loss.
  • Be able to offer DNA diagnosis of recurrent fetal loss and appropriate genetic counseling

The research activities of my group are aimed at the identification of novel genes responsible for recurrent molar pregnancies (pregnancies with no embryos) and miscarriages and the elucidation of the functional roles of the identified genes in these pathologies. This will allow offering the patients new DNA diagnostic tests directed to identify their exact molecular defect and consequently appropriate genetic counseling and assisted reproductive technologies services directed to overcome their exact molecular defects.

Membres du laboratoire

Ankur Saharan
MSc Student
ankur.saharan@mail.mcgill.ca 

Manqi Liang, BSc
MSc student

Maryam Rezaei, MSc
PhD student
maryam28i@yahoo.com

Susmitha Jaganathan, BSc
MSc student
susmitha.jaganathan@mail.mcgill.ca

Publications

SEE SCOPUS
Francois Richard

François Richard, PhD

13 Oct 2017

Address

Research interests

  • Role of cyclic nucleotides in ovarian function
  • Role of cyclic nucleotides in mitchondrial function
  • Genomic and epigenomic

My research program investigates the oocyte, better known as “ovule”, but in its immature state. Our team is especially interested in cell signalling since it plays a primordial role in the gamete’s maturation. Even more specifically, we investigate the role of cyclic nucleotide enzyme degradation, namely phosphodiesterases (PDEs). We have made interesting discovering by identifying new families of PDEs found in cumulus cells, some of which seem to be regulated through their association with membrane lipids of the raft family and others which are very sensitive to cAMP regulation.  We are also interested in understanding the dialogue between cumulus cells and the oocyte. We have developed a tools for the functional evaluation of cumulus cells’ response by measuring “Gap junction communication” using fluorophores and photobleaching. Thanks to this approach, we are among world leaders involved in demonstrating the high level of regulation of gap junctions during in vitro maturation. We are very active in our efforts to better understand this regulation. Because energy levels play a decisive role in the oocyte future, we study the KAMP metabolic switch.  We demonstrated the critical impact of this switch at various levels. We also have knowledge transfer projects in collaboration with the industry involved with male and female gametes. Finally, a better understanding of signalling will result in better conditions.

Members of the laboratory

Tiphanie Mérel, MSc
PhD student
tiphanie.merel.1@ulaval.ca

Amel Lounas, MSc
PhD student
amel.lounas.1@ulaval.ca

Publications

SEE SCOPUS

Nicolas Pilon, PhD

13 Oct 2017

Address

Research interests

  • Neural crest cell development in health and disease
  • Molecular genetics of sex determination
  • Sex-based differences in nervous system development

Studies in the Pilon’s lab are focused on neurocristopathies, a group of rare genetic diseases in which problems with neural crest cells play a central role. This particular stem cell population generates many different cell types including, among others: peripheral neurons and glia, melanocytes, craniofacial osteoblasts and chondrocytes as well as some specialized cell types of the heart and the inner ear. Because of this large number of derivatives, distinct structures/cell types (isolated or in combination) are affected in each neurocristopathy.

Interestingly, many neurocristopathies also exhibit sex-related issues as seen in Hirschsprung disease (male sex bias in disease incidence) and CHARGE syndrome (subfertility and male-to-female sex reversal). Using mouse models and tissues from human patients, our goal is to decipher the pathogenic mechanisms underlying these diseases with a special focus on their respective sex-related issues.

In the course of our work on neural crest cells, we also developed an interest for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This interest comes from the incidental generation of a new mouse model via insertional mutagenesis of a previously uncharacterized gene that we are now characterizing in detail.

Membres du laboratoire

Alassane Gary, MSc
PhD student
alassanegary@yahoo.ca

Baptiste Charrier,MSc
PhD student
bap.charrier@gmail.com

Elizabeth Leduc, MSc
PhD student
Leduc.elizabeth@courrier.uqam.ca

Marie Lefèvre, MSc
PhD student
Lefevre.marie@courrier.uqam.ca

Mohammad Reza Omrani, MSc
PhD student
omrani.mohammad_reza@courrier.uqam.ca

Nejia Lassoued, MSc
PhD student
nejia_lassoued11@yahoo.fr

Sandrine Girard, BSc
MSc student
Girard.sandrine.3@courrier.uqam.ca

Sanaa Tork, MSc
PhD student
sanaa_t@hotmail.com

Sephora Sallis, MSc
PhD student
Sallis.sephora@courrier.uqam.ca

Sherin Nawaito, PhD
Postdoc fellow
nowatto@gmail.com

Benoit Grondin, PhD
Research associate
b.grondin1@gmail.com

Ouliana Souchkova, MSc
Research assistant
souchkova.ouliana@gmail.com

Rodolphe Soret, PhD
Research associate
rode440@gmail.com

Tatiana Cardinal, PhD
Research associate
cardinal.tatiana@uqam.ca

Publications

SEE SCOPUS

Greg FitzHarris, PhD

13 Oct 2017

Address

Research interests

  • Oocyte development
  • Embryogenesis
  • Cell division

One in six couples in Canada experiences infertility. Living a healthy pregnancy becomes more difficult as the mother’s age advances and as the age at which people decide to start an augmented family, the impact of infertility on the health and economy of Canadians will increase accordingly. The ability to produce healthy eggs (oocytes) that can be fertilized into developing embryos is a major component in establishing a healthy pregnancy. There is very little knowledge about the cell biology of oocytes and early embryos and what determines their developmental potential.

Our lab addressed this question using a combination of genetic and microscopic approaches. Our studies constitute fundamental research projects with the mouse as a study model and also translational projects in collaboration with fertility clinics to examine the determinants essential to the good health of human oocytes and embryos. Our main long-term goal is to better understand the biology of the oocyte and embryo in order to improve treatments in fertility clinics. The laboratory’s research program is currently divided into three main areas:

  1. Chromosomal segregation and aneuploidy in oocytes.
  2. The causes and consequences of chromosome division errors in embryos.
  3. The use of early mammalian embryos to study specific aspects of their cell division.

Members of the laboratory

Sydney Cohen
MSc student
sydney.cohen.chum@ssss.gouv.qc.ca

Helia Rose Motamedi
MSc student
helia.rose.motamedi@umontreal.ca

Filip Vasilev, PhD
Postdoc
fvasilev@yahoo.com

Aleksandar Mihajlovic, PhD
Postdoc
aleksandar.mihajlovic00@gmail.com

Gaudeline Remillard-Labrosse, PhD
Research assistant
gaudeline.remillard.chum@ssss.gouv.qc.ca

Publications

SEE SCOPUS

Daniel J. Bernard, PhD

13 Oct 2017

Address

Research interests

  • Transcriptional regulation of follicle-stimulating hormone synthesis
  • Mechanisms of GnRH action
  • Molecular mechanisms of IGSF1-deficiency syndrome

The Bernard’s lab investigates molecular mechanisms of pituitary hormone synthesis using in vitro and in vivo approaches.

Research in the lab concerns:

1) signal transduction mechanisms through which members of the transforming growth factor β superfamily regulate pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis,

2) mechanisms of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) signaling in pituitary gonadotrope cells.

3) hypothalamic-pituitary control of thyroid hormone production.

Members of the laboratory

Evan Buddle, BSc
Master student
evan.buddle@mail.mcgill.ca

Hailey Schultz, MSc
PhD student
Hailey.scultz@mail.mcgill.ca

Mary Loka, BSc
PhD student
mary.loka@mail.mcgill.ca

Yangfan Jin, BSc
PhD student
yangfan.jin@mail.mcgill.ca

Yeu-Farn (Claire) Lin, MSc
PhD student
Yeu-farn.lin@mail.mcgill.ca

Luisina Ongaro, PhD
Research associate
luisina.ongarogambino@mcgill.ca

Xiang Zhou, MSc
Laboratory technician
xiang.zhou3@mcgill.ca

Ying Wang, BSc
Laboratory technician
ying.wang5@mcgill.ca

Publications

SEE SCOPUS
1 2 3 4

Search

+