From Lab to Life Event:
Inside the science driving leading-edge dementia research
May 7, 2026
An afternoon inside the future of Alzheimer's research
On May 7, CLEAR Foundation welcomed supporters and researchers to the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health (DMCBH) for From Lab to Life, an immersive event showcasing some of British Columbia’s most promising advances in dementia research.
The afternoon offered attendees the opportunity to step inside the labs of CLEAR-funded scientists, witnessing firsthand the innovative technologies, therapeutic approaches, and scientific discoveries.
The Snutch & Bamji Labs: Targeting early brain hyperexcitability to slow dementia
- Dr. Terrance Snutch, Dr. Shernaz Bamji and their teams, are studying whether targeting hyperexcitable neurons early could help slow the development and progression of dementia.
- Their research is exploring the potential of Z944 (Ulixacaltamide), a drug developed by Dr. Snutch and previously tested in late-stage clinical trials for another neurological condition, to reduce this abnormal brain activity and potentially slow the progression of dementia.
The Nygaard Lab: 3D bioprinting for human brain modelling and pathophysiology
- Guests experienced a live 3D bioprinting demonstration by Dr. Stefano Sorrentino, showcasing how patient-derived stem cells are used to create tailored human brain models that preserve the pathological traits of Alzheimer’s disease.
- This innovative research helps us to better understand disease mechanisms and identify new therapeutic targets.
The MacVicar Lab: Protecting brain function through cellular environments
- Dr. Chris Groten, Dr. Nicholas Weilinger and Dr. Louis-Phillipe Bernier, are using advanced microscopy and novel genetic therapies to study brain cell function in both live and fixed tissue.
- The MacVicar Lab is focusing on testing ways to modify glial and vascular functions to better support and protect neurons and bolster their resistance to Alzheimer's disease.
Thank you to our attendees
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this memorable afternoon and to the researchers, volunteers, donors, and community members whose support makes this work possible.
CLEAR Foundation extends its sincere thanks to the team at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health for hosting this special event and providing guests with a behind-the-scenes look at the groundbreaking dementia research taking place in British Columbia.
To read the Centre’s recap of the event, click here.
