The Lawson Health Research Institute has awarded local scientists $200,000 for COVID-19-related research.
The funding will be divided between more than 14 different research projects that range from improving diagnostics to understanding the impact the pandemic has on frontline health-care workers.
Projects were selected through the Lawson Internal Research Fund (IRF) COVID-19 Pandemic Response Competition, which launched in March.
“Lawson researchers are an intrinsic part of health care in London. Our research community has mobilized quickly to the COVID-19 pandemic and has come forth with innovative ideas to prevent infections, aid recovery and reduce the likelihood of mortality in those most seriously affected," Dr. David Hill, scientific director for Lawson, said in a statement. "Lawson has reallocated internal granting resources to enable some of the most exciting and credible ideas to be explored."
Among the projects to be granted funding is one that looks at the possibility of using genetic therapy to block the virus' entry into the lungs. One of the other selected research teams will examine and document the effect the pandemic is having on the physical and mental health of those with spinal cord and brain injuries.
“We plan to use our findings to provide guidance to those living with spinal cord and brain injury, and improve their quality of life during this challenging time," said study lead and Lawson Associate Scientist Dr. Eldon Loh. "We expect that this study will not only help those with spinal cord and brain injuries, but also people living with other disabilities as well."
The COVID-19 pandemic response competition was supported with funds from London Health Sciences Foundation, St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation and the clinical departments at London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph’s Health Care London.
