Dr. Patrick Whelan

Our research endeavours are deeply embedded in exploring movement disorders, with a specialized focus on deciphering the mechanisms that enable locomotion. This journey places a significant emphasis on spinal cord injuries, viewing them not merely as isolated incidents but as critical components of movement disorders. Our mission is dedicated to unlocking the secrets of how we walk, underscoring the importance of our investigations for conditions like spinal cord injuries and Parkinson's Disease. We recognize the power of rehabilitation in fostering plasticity within the neural pathways of the spinal cord and brain, driving our interest in the anatomy and functionality of these vital circuits. In pursuit of this, we are pioneering methods to stimulate these areas, notably through deep brain stimulation techniques, optogenetics and non-invasive approaches.

We foster a collaborative spirit, working closely with Dr. Zelma Kiss from the field of Clinical Neurosciences, Dr. Murari from the realm of Engineering, and Alex McGirr from the Clinical Neurosciences. Together, we identify gait rehabilitation and initiation challenges as significant indicators of brain dysfunction, which profoundly diminish the life quality of affected individuals. Our vision is to forge new therapeutic interventions that promise to improve recovery outcomes for those grappling with spinal cord injuries and Parkinson’s Disease. 

As integral members of the Hotchkiss Brain Institute, we contribute to the Movement Disorders and the Spinal Cord, Nerve Injury and Pain groups, and the RESTORE network. Our association with AHCRI allows us to incorporate our interest in neonatal motor function. Our overarching aim is to lead the development of therapeutics that markedly enhance the recovery of individuals suffering from these debilitating conditions, thus elevating their quality of life. The Whelan lab is funded by CIHR, NSERC, and Chair funds from the Frank Leblanc Chair in Spinal Cord Injury Research. We are always interested in hearing from people interested in joining our lab. 

Between 1990 and 2015, the incidence of Parkinson's Disease has seen a doubling. Given the global trend towards an aging population, projections suggest that the number of individuals impacted by this condition could more than double once again by 2040. The progressive deterioration of functional gait is highlighted by patients as one of the disease's most impairing aspects, significantly affecting both their psychological well-being and physical capabilities. The impairment often manifests as a shuffling gait, characterized by the individual taking small, shuffled steps. In our current research proposal, we aim to address this issue by delving into the role of a parallel dopaminergic pathway that plays a critical part in gait control. Preliminary evidence suggests that this pathway remains intact in Parkinson's Disease patients. Our objective is to explore whether modulating this pathway's activity might alleviate some gait-related symptoms. Our methodology begins with a comprehensive examination of this pathway's normal functions and its brain connectivity. By gaining insight into the operational mechanisms of this pathway from both a behavioral and mechanistic standpoint, we aim to uncover the compensatory neural plasticity that unfolds throughout Parkinson's Disease progression.

Additionally, our research extends into the realm of spinal cord injuries, with a keen focus on the descending control of movement—a pivotal aspect for devising strategies to restore function. We have conducted in-depth studies on the functionality of the spinal cord in neonates, particularly in the context of locomotion. These studies offer valuable insights into developmental disorders that impair movement, such as cerebral palsy. Over the years, our investigations have employed a diverse array of approaches to examine the neuromodulation of circuits. This multifaceted research strategy not only enhances our understanding of spinal cord dynamics but also paves the way for innovative treatments aimed at mitigating the impact of movement disorders.