TORONTO – The University of Guelph is opening a research lab dedicated to improving testing and treatment for Lyme disease, a tick-borne bacteria that is increasingly affecting Canadians across the country.
The Ontario university’s lab is being set up with a $1.4-million grant from the G. Magnotta Foundation for Vector-Borne Diseases, named for Magnotta Winery co-founder Gabe Magnotta.
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Magnotta died in 2009 from complications of Lyme disease. His wife and business partner Rossana Magnotta created the non-profit foundation in 2012.
Lyme disease is caused by the bacteria Borrelia, which is transmitted through the bites of infected ticks.
Infected individuals initially experience flu-like symptoms. But left untreated, the disease can affect the skin, internal organs, musculoskeletal system, eyesight and hearing.
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Lyme is often misdiagnosed, as its symptoms can mimic other neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, Lou Gehrig’s disease, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
“Lyme disease is increasingly recognized as a substantial threat across the country, and there is a profound need for high-quality science that can improve the lives of afflicted Canadians,” said Melanie Wills, a research associate in the school’s molecular and cellular biology department, who will head the new lab.
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