Two MMSF-funded researchers were highlighted on CTV News this week for their work with tropical fish in regenerative medicine.

Dr. Devi Atukorallaya and Dr. Benjamin Lindsey are leading research efforts at the new Rady Biomedical Fish Facility at the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, part of the University of Manitoba.  

The state-of-the-art facility houses around 2,000 zebrafish and 250 Mexican tetras, two fish that have regenerative abilities. The researchers hope to unlock these abilities in humans, with the possibility of regrowing teeth or repairing body parts after injury.

Dr. Atukorallaya received MMSF funding in 2017 for her project, “Zebrafish Ethmoid Bone Provides New Insights to Human Cleft Palate Development.” And in 2019, Dr. Lindsey received MMSF funding for his project, “Immune Cell Regulation of Neural Stem Cells for Spinal Cord Repair in a Zebrafish Model.”

To learn more about their research, read the CTV News article.

About the Manitoba Medical Service Foundation

Since 1971, the MMSF has awarded over $24 million to cutting-edge research and education to benefit the health of Manitobans and those around the world. In partnership with educational and research institutions and other foundations throughout Manitoba, the MMSF has contributed to the incredible work of local researchers who have changed the health landscape. 

Since inception, Manitoba Blue Cross has been the primary supporter of the MMSF – providing both financial and administrative support. Manitoba Blue Cross’s deep commitment to health and wellness makes it a strong ally in MMSF’s mission to improve health outcomes for all Manitobans.