EDMONTON (October 6, 2017)­ – The Canadian Glycomics Network (GlycoNet) announced the release of its third annual report, Accelerating Innovation, detailing ground-breaking research advances, training initiatives, and knowledge translation successes from the past fiscal year. GlycoNet is a national research network connecting the glycomics research community across Canada and includes more than 115 investigators at 30 post-secondary institutions.

Some of the highlights of the report include the development of a new screening test for prostate cancer, and research into new glycomics-based treatments for conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and heart failure. Glycomics—the study of carbohydrates (or glycans) in the biological functions of cells—is crucial to solving the unmet medical needs of Canadians. Through collaboration with industry, GlycoNet scientists combat chronic diseases, rare genetic diseases, antimicrobials, diabetes and obesity, and develop therapeutic proteins and vaccines.

“Last year represented an exciting year for the network as we continued to build upon our successes from previous years in delivering novel solutions to improve the health of Canadians through glycomics,” said Dr. Todd Lowary, GlycoNet Scientific Director. “We are grateful to the NCE and our partners who have provided the funding to support our activities.  In addition, our success would not be possible without an incredibly dedicated team of scientists, administrative staff, and board and committee members who dedicate their time to ensure that GlycoNet is a success.”

The report also highlights success in the area of knowledge translation, as GlycoNet investigators work closely with industry to take research from bench to bedside. GlycoNet includes 87 network partners who have provided $5.4 million in cash and in-kind contributions to GlycoNet projects to date.

“We  have selected our ongoing projects, not only based on research excellence, but also on commercial potential and have worked closely with our investigators, boards and committees to expand industry/receptor partnerships and technology translation,” said Dr. Elizabeth Nanak, GlycoNet Executive Director.

Read the Full Annual Report in English or French at canadianglycomics.ca/publications

GlycoNet is a pan-Canadian, multidisciplinary research network aiming to deliver solutions to important health issues and improve the quality of life of Canadians through the study of glycomics. GlycoNet is funded by the Networks of Centres of Excellence, a Government of Canada program that supports large-scale, academic-led research networks to build research capacity and accelerate the creation of new knowledge in a specific research area.

Contact:

Elizabeth Nanak
Executive Director
Canadian Glycomics Network (GlycoNet)
780.492.7784 / enanak@ualberta.ca

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