The CenteR for Advancing Neurotechnological Innovation to Application (CRANIA) held a ceremony for its inaugural Dean Connor and Maris Uffelmann CRANIA Innovation Awards in Neuromodulation earlier this year at the Krembil Discovery Tower at UHN’s Toronto Western Hospital.
These awards were established through a generous donation from Dean Connor and Maris Uffelmann to foster collaboration and innovation in research on neuromodulation—using electrical or magnetic signals to regulate nerve activity and treat neurological conditions. “These awards foster interdisciplinary partnerships in neuromodulation and accelerate the translation of innovative research into solutions that profoundly improve patient outcomes," said Dr. Luka Milosevic, CRANIA co-Director.
As the inaugural recipients, the following projects received up to $75,000 to support innovative research in neural repair, deep brain stimulation (DBS), and shockwave therapy:
Project A | Title: Examining the Activation and Integration of Resident Neural Stem Cells in the Stroke-Injured Brain Following Electrical Stimulation: A Novel Approach to Promote Neural Repair
Dr. Cindi Morshead, Affiliate Scientist at UHN’s KITE Research Institute (KITE), and Dr. Bojana Stefanovic, Senior Scientist at Sunnybrook Research Institute, co-lead a project investigating how electrical stimulation can activate neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPC) for neural repair following a stroke. Using advanced imaging techniques, this research supports the development of new therapeutic strategies for stroke rehabilitation.
Project B | Title: Advanced Mid-Field (0.5T) MRI for Enhanced DBS Targeting and Lead Localization Improving Patient Care
Dr. Ian Connell, Affiliate Scientist at KITE, and Dr. Jürgen Germann, Assistant Scientist at UHN’s Krembil Brain Institute, co-lead a study to improve the precision of DBS procedures—a critical treatment for Parkinson disease and other neurological conditions. By using advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the project aims to enhance surgical imaging and electrode placement accuracy, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Project C | Title: The Safety and Efficacy of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Individuals Living with Chronic Spinal Cord Injury: A Prospective Pilot Study
Dr. Julio Furlan, Scientist at KITE, and Dr. José Zariffa, Senior Scientist at KITE, co-lead a study exploring the use of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)—a non-invasive neuromodulation treatment using soundwaves—to improve neurological and functional recovery and mitigate secondary health conditions in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury. The research seeks to confirm the safety and collect preliminary data on the efficacy of ESWT and provide a foundation for future clinical trials.
“These awards mark a key milestone in our commitment to supporting bold new ideas and collaborative excellence, paving the way for future discoveries and major research initiatives,” said CRANIA co-Director, Dr. Taufik Valiante. The second round of applications has closed, and the adjudication process is currently underway.
During the ceremony, Dean Connor and Maris Uffelmann were also presented with UHN Foundation’s Gold Upper Canada Medal. This medal recognizes distinguished service and generous support.
Read more about the establishment of the CRANIA Awards here.
The Upper Canada Medal, originally created by the Loyal and Patriotic Society of Upper Canada, recognized the service of volunteer soldiers in the War of 1812. Recognizing an even greater need, the Society decided in 1819 to reduce the medals to gold bullion and establish a trust fund to support the construction of the original Toronto General Hospital, which opened to patients in 1829. Today, UHN Foundation honours special donors by awarding these medals in recognition of their distinguished philanthropic support.