Two MDI Biological Laboratory scientists and former INBRE Investigators have reported significant research discoveries this year. Assistant Professor Sandra Rieger, PhD, began her Maine-based research with INBRE funding in 2011, and Bates College graduate and Assistant Professor Voot Yin, PhD, returned to Maine in 2010 after his doctoral training and postdoctoral research with the support of INBRE funding. Both now continue their research programs at MDI Biological Laboratory’s COBRE Center.

Sandra Rieger, PhD, has identified two drugs that could potentially be used to reverse peripheral nerve damage, or peripheral neuropathy, resulting from chemotherapy treatment for ovarian, breast, lung, pancreas, and other cancers. The drugs also have potential applications for the treatment of peripheral nerve damage caused by diabetes, traumatic injuries and other conditions.

Potential New Drug Therapy for Peripheral Nerve Damage Announced by MDI Biological Laboratory

Dr. Voot Yin‘s research has uncovered new discoveries about the mechanisms underlying the regeneration of heart tissue which raises hope that drugs can be identified to help the body grow muscle cells and remove scar tissue, important steps in the regeneration of heart tissue.

Scientist at MDI Biological Laboratory Identifies Mechanism to Regenerate Heart Tissue

Dr. Yin’s work was also featured on Maine Public Radio.