Vladimir Ljubicic

Contact Info
Associate Professor; Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Neuromuscular Plasticity in Health and Disease
Ivor Wynne Centre, Room E207
905 525 9140 ext. 24517
905-523-6011
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Research
Neuromuscular plasticity refers to the remodeling of the neuromuscular system in response to genetic or environmental cues. Neuromuscular disorders, including the neuromuscular alterations that are hallmarks of advanced aging, are more common in Canada then generally appreciated. The central experimental questions that form the foundation of our research program are: 1) What roles do phenotype-modifying proteins play in the maintenance and remodeling of the peripheral neuromuscular system, and 2) Are these molecules efficacious therapeutic targets for neuromuscular disorders? To address these questions, we design investigations around rational lifestyle- and pharmacological-based strategies focused on the manipulation of powerful phenotype-bending molecules in the neuromuscular system. Furthermore, we employ an integrative and rigorous cell-to-animal experimental approach, as well as an innovative combination of molecular physiological solutions. The long-term goal of our research is to expand fundamental understanding of the mechanisms governing neuromuscular plasticity, as well as to identify novel, evidence-based therapeutic strategies to improve the lives of those with compromised neuromuscular systems.
Neuromuscular exercise biology; Duchenne muscular dystrophy; Spinal muscular atrophy; Myotonic dystrophy type 1; Sarcopenia of aging; AMP-activated protein kinase; Protein arginine methyltransferases
Courses
Undergraduate
Course Code |
  | Course Name |
KINESIOL 3Z03 |   | Neuromuscular Plasticity in Health and Disease |
Graduate
Course Code |
  | Course Name |
KIN 725 |   | Neuromuscular Biology |
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