Faculty of Medicine

Using cryo-electron microscopy, UBC researchers have revealed the structure of the N501Y spike protein mutant, shown above (in blue) bound to two copies of the ACE2 receptor (in red).

UBC researchers unveil first molecular images of B.1.1.7 COVID-19 mutation

UBC researchers are the first in the world to publish structural images of the N501Y mutation on the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein—a change believed to be partly responsible for the highly infectious nature and rapid spread of variant B.1.1.7.

May 3, 2021

A baby’s first poop can help predict risk of developing allergies

It may seem like an unusual place to go looking for answers, but the contents of a baby’s first diaper can reveal a lot about a newborn’s future health.

Apr 29, 2021

UBC researchers identify the most dangerous prescriptions for B.C. drivers

It’s well-known that drinking and driving is linked to a high risk of causing a car crash. But taking common prescription medications like sleeping pills, opioids and medication used to treat anxiety and depression also poses a risk.

Apr 22, 2021

Survey uncovers pandemic’s complex impact on people living with dementia and their families

COVID-19 has been especially challenging for people living with dementia, their families and caregivers, confirms a new study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Mar 23, 2021

Andrew Robertson, TRIUMF Research Officer (Therapeutic Isotope Product Development), working in a TRIUMF radiochemistry laboratory. Credit: TRIUMF

Made-in-Canada method of producing life-saving radioisotopes receives Health Canada approval

A made-in-Canada approach to producing the world’s most commonly used medical isotope has received Health Canada approval, ushering in a new era for patients in Canada and around the world who rely on these isotopes for critical diagnostic procedures.

Dec 18, 2020

UBC scientists receive $3M for COVID-19 research projects

Scientists at the University of British Columbia are receiving $3 million to support COVID-19 research projects through the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI).

Nov 6, 2020

Earlier testing and tracing could have prevented spread of COVID-19 in U.S. and Europe

Earlier testing and contact tracing might have prevented SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, from becoming established in the United States and Europe, suggests a new study recently published in Science.

Sep 25, 2020

Sexual health and domestic violence during COVID-19

Dr. Lori Brotto, a professor in the department of obstetrics and gynaecology at UBC’s faculty of medicine, is leading a national survey to measure changes in sexual health and the prevalence of gender-based violence during COVID-19.

Jul 16, 2020

UBC experts on seniors health

Monday, June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. UBC experts are available to comment.

Jun 12, 2020

Credit: Fusion Medical Animation/Unsplash

Predicting the evolution of COVID-19 to help manage future outbreaks

As the world prepares for future waves of COVID-19, the ability to predict mutations in the novel coronavirus even before they emerge will be essential to stopping future outbreaks.

Jun 5, 2020

Caring for seniors living with dementia during COVID-19

Physical distancing is now part of every day life, but it can be particularly challenging for seniors living with dementia and their caregivers.

May 13, 2020

Protecting the health of seniors during COVID-19

While public health experts recommend seniors stay home and protect themselves, concerns have also been raised about the potential negative effects of isolation. Join UBC experts who will address these issues and answer your questions.

Apr 29, 2020

Myth busting: Setting the record straight on ibuprofen and COVID-19

In the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak, there has been a wave of fear and misinformation related to the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin)

Mar 23, 2020

Peer mentorship programs vital for supporting women leaving prison

New UBC research underscores the value of peer mentorship programs in supporting incarcerated women navigating the transition from prison back into the community.

Feb 18, 2020

UBC experts on opioid crisis lawsuits

A court in Oklahoma has found Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiaries helped fuel the U.S. state’s opioid crisis and has ordered the company to pay $572 million. UBC experts are available to comment.

Aug 27, 2019

Mothers of colour experience high rates of mistreatment by providers during childbirth in the U.S.

Mothers of colour experience less respect and autonomy and more mistreatment than white women during childbirth, according to new research from the University of British Columbia.

Jun 11, 2019

New research suggests no mental health benefits to eating your placenta

Eating your placenta provides no mental health benefits for new mothers, suggests new research from the BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services’ Research Institute and the University of British Columbia.

May 2, 2019

Common treatment for multiple sclerosis may prolong life

Researchers from the University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute have found that a widely prescribed drug for multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with longer survival for patients.

Mar 18, 2019

Optical probe for skin cancer screening developed at UBC. Credit: UBC

Low-cost ‘cancer probe’ could spot deadly melanoma early

Work is being done at UBC on a tool to help in the early detection of melanoma: a simple, compact laser probe that can distinguish between harmless moles and cancerous ones – in a matter of seconds.

Mar 6, 2019

New China and US studies back use of pulse oximeters for assessing blood pressure

Fast and easy blood pressure monitoring could soon be at your fingertips thanks to new UBC research that showed BP can be assessed by a fingertip oximeter, a tool not generally used for that purpose

Nov 21, 2018