The Institute has one of the largest programs world-wide exploiting transgenic mouse and embryonic stem cell technologies to create models of human development and disease. Institute scientists have pioneered gene targeting and knock-out technologies. A variety of genes have also been identified which are associated with the development and function of the nervous system, cardiovascular system, as well as other organ systems. The Institute is affiliated with the University of Toronto and its clinicians and researchers are cross-appointed to several faculties at the University. The Institute's programs and priorities are reviewed annually by an external Scientific Advisory Board composed of internationally respected scientists.
Research programs focus on genetic predisposition to cancer and genetic alterations in cancer.
Other programs vary from cell signalling to psychosocial issues in cancer. Research on carbohydrate structures on cell surface glycoproteins is identifying novel therapeutic and diagnostic approaches to cancer. The Institute plays a major role in the O.C.G.N., an Ontario-wide network of scientists and clinicians investigating the molecular genetics of inherited predisposition to cancer. Institute scientists have pioneered research which has given rise to gene knock-out and gene trap technologies, enabling the targeted deletion of genes of interest and the identification and analysis of the pattern of expression of genes which play a critical role in development. Programs also focus on the molecular genetics of the development and function of the nervous system, including characterisation of genes that regulate the migration of neurons in the developing nervous system.