Among the funded projects is Prof. Andrew Bateman's work at The Institute on a novel biologic therapy that aims to slow or stabilize the progression of ALS
SOURCE: CQDM and Brain Canada
September 25, 2025
CQDM and Brain Canada are proud to announce funding for five large-scale collaborative research projects that bring together academic, clinical and industry partners across the country. These projects aim to transform promising scientific advances into concrete medical innovations. Funding has been made possible through grants from the Government of Québec, administered by CQDM, totaling of $2,452,745, with additional support from several industry partners, matched by a $2,961,693 contribution from Brain Canada, through the Canada Brain Research Fund (CBRF).
An innovative biologic therapy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): This project, with a total value of $881,122, is led by Andrew Bateman, PhD, (Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre) in partnership with company Neurodyn Life Sciences Inc. It also benefits from the expertise of Professors Jay Penney and Andrew Tasker (University of Prince Edward Island). The team is developing a novel biologic therapy to slow, or potentially functionally stabilize, the progression of ALS. The project explores the neuroprotective properties of granulins to counteract the toxic effects of the TDP-43 protein involved in disease progression. Two therapeutic formulations will be evaluated to support future clinical trials. By combining expertise across disciplines, this initiative seeks to improve the quality of life of patients while strengthening Canada's leadership in neuroscience.
Recognizing excellence across Canada
This announcement also highlights outstanding projects led by scientists at CHU Sainte-Justine, The Hospital for Sick Children, the University of Sherbrooke, the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal and McGill University.