Dr. Wendy Dean
Positions
Professor
Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy
Biomedical Lab Director
Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute
Child Health & Wellness Researcher
Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute
Contact information
Phone number
Office: 403.210.7066
Location
Office: HMRB268
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Background
Educational Background
PhD in Molecular and Developmental Biology University of Calgary, 1989
MSc in Biology Brock University, 1985
Hons BSc in Biology and Chemistry Brock University, 1982
Research
Areas of Research
The genetic code supplies instructions for all the 200 cell types of the adult human. All these cells arise from the fertilised egg. One blueprint with many interpretations, giving the awe-inspiring arc from embryo to adult organism. This orchestration is the role of epigenome. Epigenetic instructions are both rigid, keeping cellular identity fixed throughout a healthy lifespan, and flexible responding to environmental, nutritional and metabolic requirements from development and throughout all life. Many layers of the epigenome are required to regulate gene expression in a meticulous fashion supplying sufficient gene products at the right time and the right place.
Among the most essential cells produced in the development of the organism are those that will become eggs and sperm. These cells cross the generations and arise at early stages of development. As such, during pregnancy, multiple generations all exist simultaneously and the life experiences of one may affect the immediate, next and future generations. Examples are found in age related health and disease processes. Understanding the mechanisms is still in its infancy. However, new tools and therapies are available to probe these challenges to learning about and ensuring children’s health, the basis of a healthy society.
Participation in university strategic initiatives
Publications
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