Neil Sweezey

Administrative Assistant: Crystal Wilson, crystal.wilson@sickkids.ca, (416) 813-6346

Research Synopsis

Our first project evaluates the modulation by sex hormones of inflammation and susceptibility to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis (CF) airways in humans and in CF mouse models. The second project investigates the impact on longterm respiratory risk of developmental deficiency of Lgl1. LGL1 is a novel, secreted glucocorticoid-inducible, highly conserved gene that we have, with F Kaplan, (McGill), cloned and characterized in late gestation rat lung.  

Unfortunately, in the present funding environment my applications for renewal of my research funding as Principal Investigator have failed in competition. My bench (wet-lab) research activities as PI will have to be shut down in the coming months of 2014. My share of continuing funding as co-PI of a CIHR operating grant until 2016 is insufficient to sustain the laboratory. My superb Research Assistant of the last 21 years at McGill and SickKids, Stéphane Gagnon, MSc., needs to find ongoing full-time employment and is available effective immediately. I will continue as an Attending Physician in Respiratory Medicine at SickKids and plan to participate in patient-based studies.