Research Interests
The Ruth Slack Laboratory focuses on the field of neural regeneration, investigating developmental pathways and partners and exploring the potential for future therapeutic targets. Using both in vitro and in vivo studies, we are examining mechanisms that regulate stem cell maintenance, neurogenesis as well as neuronal survival in the adult brain. Over the long term, our research interests involve the identification of strategies for the treatment of acute brain injury and neurodegenerative diseases.
Our current studies have demonstrated that proteins specifically implicated in the regulation of cell replication and metabolism also play important roles in a neuronal context. By exploiting knowledge of these regulatory proteins, we hope to be able to activate the neural precursor and stem-like cell pool, enhance the production of new neurons, and promote the survival of existing neurons within this context. This would hopefully result in facilitated regeneration and enhanced survival of damaged brain tissue post-injury.
About Dr. Slack
Dr. Slack is a full professor at the University of Ottawa in the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, and has served as Vice-Dean, Research since July 2017. She is a Reviewing Editor for the Journal of Neuroscience. She has served on several review panels including CIHR, CFI, Ontario Mental Health Foundation, HSFO, Alberta Heritage Foundation, and the Retinitis Pigmentosa Research Foundation. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada.
Dr. Slack is currently funded through CIHR, HSFO, CFI, Brain Canada, Krembil Foundation, Canadian Stroke Network and Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery.
She can be reached electronically at
