12. 2006 Dialogue 13 AYear of Achievements

Top honours for Liggins scientists

Fellowship remembers a special partnership

Evolutionary origins of modern disease

A year of achievements Royal Society honours scientists 2006 was a special year for the Liggins Institute. Patron and acclaimed scientist, The work of two Liggins' scientists received national recognition when the Royal Society of Sir Graham (Mont) Liggins celebrated his eightieth birthday while the Institute itself turned New Zealand awarded them top honours for their research. five. Meanwhile, many researchers at the Liggins celebrated their own special milestones with the birth of six babies, including one whose battle for survival underpins the Liggins Institute’s philosophy. In June, the Sir John Logan Campbell Classroom was opened by the Prime Minister while Epi Gen, a new commercial consortium was launched at the Mystery Creek Fieldays.

Since its official opening by Her Majesty funded Centres of Research Excellence, the terms of technologies and the quality of our Queen Elizabeth II in 2002, the Institute has National Research Centre for Growth and researchers. Our new "Sequenom" facility cemented its research reputation, attracting Development. Over 30 million dollars in is just one example of how we’re staying at major funding and forming significant grant funding has been won by the Institute the cutting-edge of research exploring the international partnerships. since its foundation. Collaborations have influences of genetics and the environment In 2004 the excellence of Institute’s also been formed with AgResearch, and the on the origins of disease. The Liggins is well research was formally recognised when it universities of Cambridge and Southampton on the way to becoming an iconic example received the country’s top rating for health, in the United Kingdom. of New Zealand intellectual achievement. biomedical and medical research in the Liggins’ director Professor Peter Gluckman There are challenges ahead, but we face inaugural Performance-Based Research says the first five years of the Institute’s life them with the knowledge that we are truly at Fund (PBRF). In 2003, the Institute was have seen it grow in research strength and the head of our field.” included in one of seven government- reputation. “We are now truly world-class in

PAGE 5 PAGE 8 PAGE 11 PAGE 14 Dialogue 12 . 2006 13 Peter Lobie (left) and Mark Vickers have had their achievements recognised by the Royal Society of New Zealand.

Milestone for Passionate teacher Celia Liggins Fellow Why our world no pioneering patron inspires students appointed longer fits our bodies Associate director elected Professor Lobie is one of 12 new Fellows “It is obviously a great honour and extremely Fellow of the Royal Society elected in 2006. He joins three other New satisfying to have our research recognised Zealand Fellows at the Institute: Professors by the Royal Society in this manner,” says Liggins Institute associate director Professor Contents this issue In brief 7 Peter Gluckman, Murray Mitchell and Dr Vickers. “This award serves to highlight Peter Lobie was elected a Fellow of the Royal A year of achievements 2 Inspiring a passion for science 8 . the importance of the work undertaken at Society of New Zealand in November. the Liggins and reflects the strong position Royal Society honours scientists 3 Prime Minister gives Classroom seal of approval 9 Professor Lobie is a molecular Liggins fellow receives young we have on the world stage in the area of New fellowship established in memory of Celia 4 Blooming late may mean a longer life 9 endocrinologist whose work on the role scientist award developmental programming.” New Epi Gen consortium holds key to Muscle protein may hold key to fetal growth 10 of growth hormone in the development of Research fellow Dr Mark Vickers has Liggins Institute director, Professor Peter breast cancer has earned him international predictive medicine 4 Coming events 10 been awarded the Royal Society of New Gluckman says Mark was nominated for the acclaim. Pioneering patron turns 80 5 Inaugural fellow appointed through Celia’s legacy 11 Zealand’s 2006 Hamilton Memorial Prize because of the international impact In congratulating Professor Lobie, Meet the parents: the Liggins’ family gets Note to Friends 12 Prize. The Prize recognizes outstanding his research had made. “His work has Liggins’ director Professor Peter Gluckman achievement by young scientists in New already received significant international bigger every day 6 Art awards to benefit Liggins 13 said: “Peter Lobie’s expertise in unravelling Zealand and the Pacific. recognition,” says Professor Gluckman. “I Liggins wins significant Marsden grant 7 New book links lifestyle diseases with the complex mechanisms of how locally Dr Vickers, who completed his PhD on think most would regard his recent leptin Director named Auckland City’s evolutionary mismatch 14 produced growth hormone works in the the impact of poor fetal nutrition on adult study as arguably one of the most important Distinguished Citizen 7 Share our dreams 14 cancer cells has led to a breakthrough in health, recently published a groundbreaking advances in the field of developmental our understanding of how breast cancer study which showed that infant rats pre- origins research in the past three years. He develops and spreads. It opens the way for destined for adult obesity did not develop is now a major figure in the field.” the development of new therapies to combat obesity or insulin resistance if given leptin, a Dr Vickers joins two other members of the Dialogue is published by the Liggins Institute. Previous issues of Dialogue are available from the Institute. They can also be accessed as this deadly disease. pdfs at www.liggins.auckland.ac.nz/newsandevents/. Stories may be reproduced with acknowledgement. naturally occurring hormone associated with Liggins Institute who have previously won “We are extremely fortunate that we were appetite regulation. Mark’s work focuses the Hamilton Memorial Prize: Associate The Liggins Institute is the leading partner in the National Research Centre for Growth and Development, able to attract a scientist of his calibre to the on the link between fetal malnutrition Professors Bernhard Breier (1991) and Chris one of New Zealand’s Centres of Research Excellence. Liggins Institute,” adds Professor Gluckman. and a predisposition towards diabetes and Williams (1995). “Our funding from the National Research Office of the Director: Liggins Institute, The , Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand, obesity in adult life. Until the publication of The first Hamilton Memorial Prize was tel 64 9 373 7599 ext. 86476, [email protected] Centre for Growth and Development has been his study, this predisposition was believed awarded in 1923. a major factor in making this possible.” www.liggins.auckland.ac.nz to be irreversible.

PAGE  PAGE 

New fellowship established Pioneering patron turns 80 in memory of Celia The pioneering obstetrician who gave the Institute his name along with his support, turned 80 in June. Sir has established a research fellowship in memory of his late wife Celia. Most people who know about Sir The Celia Liggins Fellowship is awarded to leading Graham (Mont) Liggins know him for his young scientists working in the Director’s own groundbreaking work in the fields of preterm research team. The Fellowship was established with labour and neonatal medicine (the care of a substantial gift by Sir Graham. newborn babies). What they might not know When Lady Cecelia Liggins died in 2003 her is that while Mont Liggins has helped save legacy was manifold. As Auckland’s first female the lives of thousands of premature babies obstetrician and gynaecologist, she was a popular worldwide, he also once saved the life of an and pioneering clinician. Despite these professional elephant. commitments, she also raised a family of four and 2006 sees this world-renowned scientist provided Mont with the support he needed to pursue celebrate his 80th birthday. His contribution research interests which often took him away from to obstetrics and neonatal medicine has home for months at a time. His generous gift is in been enormous. Not only did he discover recognition of Celia’s lifelong support of his own a way of accelerating premature infants’ research. lung development, allowing them to breathe An international search for the inaugural Celia independently and halving infant mortality Liggins Fellow saw the appointment in August rates, he also established that the fetus, not of Dr Cinda-Lee Cupido, a geneticist who joins the mother, determines the onset of labour. an expanding team at the Liggins exploring the It’s arguable as to which breakthrough was relationship between human evolution and the more significant. For Mont, the discovery development of modern disease. She joins the that pregnancy could be prolonged if Liggins Institute from the University of Cape Town. the fetal pituitary gland was not allowed For a profile of the inaugural Celia Liggins Fellow, to release key hormones, was his most turn to page 13. exciting scientific moment. In reality, the

serendipitous by-product of this research Donations to help continue Celia’s legacy can be – the discovery that steroids given during made by contacting Pandora Carlyon: pregnancy matured infant lungs so that 09 373 7599 ext 82305 babies born early could breathe – has been [email protected]. Lady Cecelia Liggins: the inspiration for Mont Liggins’ donation. the most significant advance in neonatal

medicine over the last forty years. Photo credit Bruce Jarvis Mont’s story begins in Thames, where Professor Sir Graham Liggins. he was raised alongside his twin sister and three brothers. His father James Liggins carrier helping construct World War II’s 49th women in threat of preterm labour and the New Epi Gen consortium holds was the local GP. Despite the influence of General Hospital which would later evolve discovery that hormonal changes in the fetus medicine on the family, Mont’s first calling into National Women’s. trigger labour. Surprisingly, it was to be over was engineering. His hobby as a boy was As a young GP in Hamilton, Mont put in twenty years before obstetricians worldwide key to predictive medicine ‘inventing’, and he and his brothers delighted long hours, eventually deciding that a stint in accepted steroid treatment for pregnant in terrifying the neighbours with home- the United Kingdom would be beneficial for women as standard practice, while here in made rockets and electrical appliances. In his career. There he secured clinical posts New Zealand the treatment was immediately A new joint venture between the Liggins Institute and three other agricultural and medical retrospect, it is easy to see how this passion with leading women’s hospitals, gaining adopted, giving positive outcomes for infants for discovery would later translate into a experience unequalled anywhere in the far earlier than elsewhere in the world. organisations was launched in June by Agriculture Minister, Pete Hodgson. passion for research. western world. It was while he was applying As for the elephant, it was Mont’s When Mont’s elder brother, who was for the last of these posts that Mont met his reputation as a leading gynaecologist which destined to be the next doctor in the family, future wife Celia, who applied for the same saw him called to Auckland Zoo’s aid: their The consortium, known as ‘Epi Gen’, brings together the Liggins “Developing our understanding of the function of genes during the changed his specialisation from medicine role. Depending on who you ask, says Mont, female elephant Jamuna had developed a Institute, AgResearch, the United Kingdom’s Medical Research very early stages of fetal development will have significant benefits,” to dentistry, Mont felt the pressure to follow either he got the job and they felt sorry for life-threatening hormonal imbalance. After Council Epidemiology Resource Centre and The University of says Professor Gluckman. “It will enable us to develop the strategies in his father’s footsteps and enrolled in the Celia, or she got it and they took pity on him. consulting colleagues worldwide Mont Southampton. The group will explore the new science of ‘epigenetics’ and interventions needed to combat many of the major metabolic medical intermediate-year aged just 16. By Either way, they both got a job. decided that the last resort would be the which contends that the way genes are expressed can be influenced and degenerative diseases affecting humans and farm animals.” the time he returned to Auckland as a 22 It wasn’t until they returned to New removal of the elephant’s ovaries unless by our environment. AgResearch CEO, Andy West said the potential for Epi Gen year-old house surgeon, Mont had already Zealand in 1959 that Mont’s interest a new progesterone treatment which had Liggins director Professor Peter Gluckman likens epigenetics is enormous. “The consortium’s unique set of capabilities and begun what he claims is New Zealand’s in research emerged. On advice from a shown good results on human ovarian to the workings of a lighting dimmer switch: genetic potential can resources offers us the opportunity to lead the way in discovering longest association with National Women’s colleague, Mont decided to tackle the biggest cancer could be tried. It was, and Jamuna be magnified or diminished according to external influences in major factors between epigenetic change in humans and animals.” Hospital: prior to becoming a house surgeon problem affecting obstetrics – preterm birth. recovered, much to Mont’s relief as he didn’t early life. Epi Gen was launched at the Mystery Creek National Fieldays. he’d spent previous summers as a hod The results were his steroid treatment of much fancy removing an elephant’s ovaries.

PAGE  PAGE 

Meet the parents: the Liggins’ Liggins wins significant Marsden grant In brief family gets bigger every day Endocrine Society Award for A project to determine what impact early life influences have on future health has been awarded a significant grant from this year’s round of the prestigious Liggins’ research fellow Many of the health issues explored by Liggins' researchers are close to their hearts in more Marsden fund. Liggins’ research fellow Dr Nichola Thompson The project, which is lead by Liggins’ director Professor Peter Gluckman, will has been awarded a Women in Endocrinology than one way. receive $780,000 over the next three years. Nova Nordisk Young Investigators Travel Award. ‘Fortune telling during development – modelling life-history strategy and The Award is presented in recognition of research of adverse fetal environments on early testing for canalisation genes’, aims to add a new dimension to the concept of the excellence by young women endocrinologists and childhood growth and later adult disease has developmental origins of disease. was awarded in June at the American Endocrine both pros and cons. The adage "too much In a new approach, researchers will develop a mathematical model that will Society meeting. Nichola is currently investigating information can be a bad thing" initially describe how environmental influences on the embryo, fetus or newborn modify the effects of fetal under-nutrition on adult obesity springs to mind. Being a parent suddenly the way certain key genes are regulated. They will then use this model to find key and diabetes. The travel award enabled her to reinforces how important the research we gene regulators. present at Society meetings in the United States undertake is and how you yourself have “Finding the specific gene regulators that bring about these changes would be a and Australia during 2006. become a practical exponent of your own conceptual advance in explaining how organisms tailor their development to meet the environment they will encounter as adults,” says Professor Gluckman. “It will work. As researchers, we are exposed to a give us the tools to predict the risks of some diseases at an early stage and help us PhD student wins grant for wealth of knowledge about pregnancy and find ways to alter those risks.” early childhood outcomes and thus can premature infant study The project brings together an international research team which includes ensure that we do everything (within our AgResearch in Hamilton and the universities of Southampton and Cambridge in PhD student Dr Jane Alsweiler has received limits) to help optimise the environment we the United Kingdom. a $38,000 grant from the Auckland Medical give our unborn child.” Research Foundation (AMRF) to study the effect Sonia Alix had the sort of experience in of tightly regulating sugar levels in hyperglycaemic becoming a mother that most women dread: premature infants (babies with too much sugar in she went into premature labour at 24 weeks Director named their blood). and five days and gave birth to a tiny daughter A paediatric registrar based at Auckland City Adele weighing just 690 grams. Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Ironically, Sonia works at the Liggins Auckland City’s Dr Alsweiler’s research hopes to clarify whether with neonatologist Professor Jane Harding, preterm infants grow better when their sugar levels a specialist in the care of premature babies. Distinguished Citizen are lowered below the currently accepted level Sonia herself had visited Auckland Hospital’s of 10 millimols per litre. The AMRF grant will Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with enable her to conduct a NICU trial comparing Professor Peter Gluckman has been current clinical practice with the more tightly another Liggins’ neonatologist, Frank named Auckland’s Distinguished controlled blood sugar levels of 4-6 millimols per Bloomfield, in the first trimester of her Citizen for 2006 by Auckland litre. Jane also holds an AMRF Ruth Spencer pregnancy. She never expected to find herself City Council. Medical Research Fellowship, a prestigious there three months later or having to make Conferred in November by fellowship awarded to a medical graduate to the heart-rending choice to treat or not treat Auckland Mayor Dick Hubbard, undertake a research project for full-time study her tiny baby. In the end, baby Adele made the award recognises the significant towards a PhD. the decision for herself, surviving against the contribution made to New Zealand odds in the vital few hours after birth. Now a and the City of Auckland by the bright eight-month old, Adele spent 14 weeks Liggins’ director. Previous recipients Liggins’ student takes first prize in NICU and is meeting her milestones well. are Sir , Jenny in biotechnology competition “I didn’t really know too much about the Gibbs and the late Sir Hugh Kawharu. Liggins’ work before I joined the Institute,” In presenting the award, Mayor BTech (Hons) student Graeme Fielder has won says Sonia, who arrived in New Zealand Hubbard said the distinguished first prize in The University of Auckland’s annual from the United Kingdom in 2005. “I wasn’t citizenship was about recognising I-VOLVE competition. I-VOLVE, a competition photograph: Jonathan Blake established by the University’s bio-entrepreneur aware of the heritage of neonatal medicine extraordinary New Zealanders who incubator Chiasma, allows students to present their Sonia Alix and daughter Adele. in Auckland and until Adele was born, I had arguably helped shape Auckland commercial ideas to the biotechnology community. didn’t appreciate just how important the work as much as the City’s previous As parents, our clinicians and scientists Graves and biochemist, Sonia Alix. Research Graeme, whose idea for an online trading site for underway at the Liggins is. It’s ironic that I mayors. see the consequences of premature birth, fellow Fahimeh Rahnama and technician biological materials was developed in conjunction should be working for two of New Zealand’s "Peter's intellect and diabetes and infant brain injury not just Chris Keven had sons. with student Carthur Wan, is currently researching leading premature baby specialists and end Peter Gluckman – achievements mean that for a as statistics, but as real problems affecting Mark Vickers, whose work includes the the role of novel genes implicated in the up having a premature baby myself. I am surprised and humbled by the City’s recognition. long time now he could have families and children just like theirs. post-natal effect of under-nourishment in development of breast cancer under the supervision proud to be working with Jane Harding and settled anywhere in the world. Yet In 2006, the Liggins welcomed six new the womb, became a proud dad to daughter of Professor Peter Lobie. The awards were judged proud that the work I do might help save he remains passionately committed to promoting Auckland as a centre of children to its extended family. Girls were Lila-Kate in May: intellectual excellence." in May by Xcellesyz and Symansis founder Peter another premature baby one day.” born to research fellows Mark Vickers and “Being a parent to our daughter Lila-Kate The Mayor described Professor Gluckman is an extraordinary Kiwi who has Shepherd, and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise Biotechnology director, Chris Boalch. Dyanne Wilson, to Liggins’ writer Andrea and at the same time researching the effects taken New Zealand medical research to the world stage.

PAGE  PAGE 

Inspiring a passion for science Blooming late may mean a Our new Sir John Logan Campbell Classroom manager has left school to encourage others longer life to stay. If you were shorter than your peers as a child and went through puberty late, then you’re more likely than most to live to a ripe old age according to the work of clinical research fellow Dr Dyanne Wilson. Dr Wilson is exploring the hypothesis that ‘late bloomers’ (children who go through puberty at a later than average age), are more likely to be sensitive to the hormone insulin - a characteristic which distinguishes healthy centenarians from other elderly people. “Insulin resistance (where the body becomes less sensitive to insulin), is an important indicator of health in later life which can be measured even in childhood,” explains Dyanne. “Individuals with insulin resistance have a higher risk of developing cancer, high blood pressure, type-2 diabetes and heart disease, while individuals who are insulin sensitive have a lower risk of these conditions.” Dr Wilson found that pre-pubertal children whose development lagged behind their peers were more likely to Classroom manager Jacquie Bay: be insulin sensitive. Forty percent of her vision for the John Logan Campbell Classroom is to inspire a future generation of scientists. these children had enhanced insulin Classroom manager, Jacquie Bay is This means is that what the science sensitivity compared to children whose passionate about science. With over 17 years students are learning about is being presented growth and development matched in science education, Jacquie knows what it in its actual context from real scientists The programme their actual age. takes to inspire students and teachers. In in a way that Jacquie believes is truly “Our research suggests that joining the Liggins Institute as a senior motivational: “It has huge potential to reach children who are late bloomers have tutor in biology and the Sir John Logan out into the community in many different Researchers from the Liggins Institute a biological advantage with a lower Campbell Classroom manager, Jacquie ways,” says Jacquie, who believes that the and the University’s faculties of Science Dr Dyanne Wilson in the Institute’s Maurice and Nessie Paykel Clinical Research Unit. risk of developing conditions such has a number of goals, the most pressing educational research that accompanies this and Medical and Health Sciences, will all as diabetes and cancer. This has of which is to develop programmes and programme will enhance biology education contribute to the Classroom’s programmes. implications for children entering resources which will bring science alive for in New Zealand. Topics are likely to include: puberty early, as they may benefit from students. She is hoping a taste of ‘real world’ Jacquie has ambitious plans for the • Biotechnology techniques and their early intervention through lifestyle science will encourage students to pursue Classroom including mentoring programmes applications, including gel electro- changes (and possibly medication) to scientific careers. for talented students and video-conferencing phoresis, PCR, ligation, micro-arrays prevent disease later on.” “New Zealand needs more scientists,” links so that students around the country and tissue culture; Dr Wilson’s work is an extension says Jacquie, who until two months ago was can talk to scientists about their work. • Biotechnology, genetics, mutations and of research by Associate Professor head of science at Auckland’s Diocesan Professional development courses for gene expression - for senior biology; Wayne Cutfield and Dr Paul Hofman School for Girls. “The opportunity for teachers are already proving hugely • DNA and simple genetics - for middle who found that growth restricted and students to interact with scientists and popular with programmes extended due school programmes premature babies were more likely relate the work they are doing in school to to oversubscription. to be insulin resistant than full-term Research contexts that these topics and infants. current research will enhance the excellent “The Liggins’ vision is wonderful because programmes will be linked to are likely to “Given these results,” says Dr science programmes that we see in New it approaches all aspects of science: if include breast cancer, the muscle protein Wilson, “we’re going to do a study to Zealand schools. Biology is constantly we’re going to produce enough scientists myostatin and obesity. A new website will see if insulin sensitivity affects the advancing with developments which often to meet our future needs, we must inspire provide a programme of topics and resources timing of puberty. If this is the case, it use equipment that is beyond the reach them through the excitement of discovery. for teachers and is hoped to be live early will open the way for new approaches of school budgets. The Sir John Logan It’s important that they understand how next year. Prime Minister gives Classroom seal of approval: opened the Sir John Logan Campbell Classroom offers schools the the science they’re studying contributes Campbell Classroom in June alongside pupils from Tamaki College and her former school Epsom Girls’ to reducing the risk of adult disease in chance to experience these developments to society.” Teachers interested in booking Classroom Grammar. Praising the Institute for its initiative, the Prime Minister said the outreach facility was ‘early bloomers’.” programmes for their students should email: critically important to New Zealand’s biotechnology future as it would interest more young people in Dr Wilson’s research was funded by in a way which is directly linked to science. She congratulated the Liggins for offering schools access to the centre free of charge saying: the curriculum.” [email protected]. “Schools will grasp this with open arms”. the Southern Trust.

PAGE  PAGE  Muscle protein may hold key to Inaugural fellow appointed fetal growth through Celia’s legacy A muscle-restricting protein known as myostatin may be a vital factor in placental function, South African Dr Cinda-Lee Cupido has been appointed the first Celia Liggins Fellow. according to new research by Liggins’ scientists.

A gene mutation that many bodybuilders “It’s a result which definitely warrants must long for: his body can not produce a further study because thousands of babies muscle-limiting protein called myostatin. world wide suffer from nutrient deprivation For years myostatin was thought to be due to placental problems. This leads to responsible solely for restricting muscle intra-uterine growth restriction, small, at- growth, but thanks to a unique discovery risk babies and currently there is no way to by Liggins Institute scientists, this special get more nutrients to these babies other than protein has now been found in the placenta to deliver them prematurely, which itself and gestational membranes and may have poses huge risks.” a role in nutrient delivery from mother Professor Mitchell, the Institute’s research to fetus. director, knows more about premature birth If this is the case, it could be the answer than most. His expertise is in the hormones to something researchers have long been that control labour and birth, and he leads searching for: a way to boost the growth of research that aims to find the causes, an babies in the womb. effective treatment and an accurate diagnosis The scientists behind the discovery for premature labour. of myostatin in the placenta are Liggins’ “Myostatin also influences some of the Professors Murray Mitchell and John Bass. hormones and proteins that we know are “It was exciting and surprising to find key to switching on labour and delivery,” myostatin in the placenta and gestational explains Professor Mitchell. “Discovering tissues,” says Professor Bass, a specialist the full story about what switches on labour in muscle biology and growth. “Given that is one of our main scientific goals – with the it’s now known that myostatin controls the aim of using it to reduce premature births. balance of key nutrients in several parts of It’s exciting to find something that could be

Professor Murray Mitchell: the body, our next step was to see if it was another piece in the jigsaw puzzle.” searching for the causes of premature labour. doing the same kind of job in the placenta. This work was funded by the National We found that myostatin does indeed control Research Centre for Growth and Recently a German boy of enormous strength the movement of glucose across the placenta Development and was published as a rapid was found to have leg muscles two to three – which is of course vital for passing energy communication in the Journal of Clinical times the size of normal muscles. The cause? from mother to baby. Endocrinology and Metabolism.

Dr Cinda-Lee Cupido, bringing a genetic perspective to the evolutionary origins of disease.

Coming Events: Cinda-Lee comes to the Liggins Institute and disease; what we’re doing is trying to now detrimental to our health. We’re aiming from the University of Cape Town where she find the evidence for that in our DNA.” to look for genes and gene modifications helped identify genes that may be associated Initially working alongside Liggins’ that have evolved recently and which Science, Medicine and Society ’07 with the development of bipolar disorder. researchers Professor Peter Gluckman, Dr may be helpful in identifying risk factors Her Celia Liggins Fellowship sees her take Mark Vickers and Dr Alan Beedle, Cinda- for conditions such as type-2 diabetes, up a position in the Institute’s newly formed Lee will use her skills as a molecular hypertension and obesity.” The Liggins Institute’s Science, Medicine Winston and experts in evolution and A return of the popular ‘Seasons of Life’ Centre for Human Evolution, Adaptation geneticist to help pinpoint genetic factors in For Cinda-Lee, there is a romantic irony and Society programme continues to draw development: Sir , Dr Chris seminar series highlighting key areas of and Disease (CHEAD), a research unit conditions such as diabetes and obesity. in her appointment as the first Celia Liggins increasing public interest. Aimed at non- Kuzawa, and Dr Mary Jane West-Eberhard. Liggins’ research within a community which looks to trace the disease-inducing “A lot of the work at the Liggins is Fellow: she started work at the Liggins scientists and designed to bring together Parents, Friends and community groups context is scheduled for the second half of interaction between our modern lifestyle aimed at discovering the biological through a gift which recognised a special clinicians, researchers and the public, will soon be able to share some of the the year. and our ancient DNA. mechanisms underlying increasingly more marriage, on the same day that her fiancé the programme’s seminars are sometimes excitement of Liggins’ discoveries and Cinda-Lee, who has a PhD in human common modern diseases. These diseases proposed. “It is wonderful to be associated controversial and always highly topical. become ‘scientists’ for a night. As an For more information on any of the genetics, is specifically interested in the seem to have their origin in how humans with Mont and Celia, and to be working The 2007 programme will again provide extension of the Logan Campbell Class- Institute’s 2007 events contact Pandora evolution of human health and disease. evolved and the current mismatch between among ground-breaking scientists here at the opportunities for the public to hear and meet room’s 2007 programme for schools, the Carlyon on (09) 373 7599, ext. 82305 or “I’ve always been fascinated by inherited our environment and our genetic make- Liggins. I hope my time as a Celia Liggins some of the leading international scientists Institute will offer evening classes for groups subscribe to our e-newsletter by emailing: disorders,” says Cinda-Lee, who started up. We’re beginning to understand that Fellow will contribute to our understanding who visit the Liggins. These will include of parents and supporters to learn more [email protected]. work at the Liggins in August. “There are genetic modifications which were beneficial of human growth and development in a way high-profile scientist, communicator and about the science behind the research and so many hypotheses about human evolution to humans five to ten thousand years ago, are that would have made Celia proud.” documentary maker, Professor Lord Robert what it means for our health and society.

PAGE 10 PAGE 11 Art awards to benefit Liggins Above: The winning entry: The Liggins Institute is set to benefit from Jenny Dolezel a unique fusion of sponsorship, art and 'The Single-Minded Pursuit of More' Note to Friends medicine through the 2006 Team McMillan BMW Art Awards. The aim of the Liggins Institute is to give director, Professor Peter Gluckman was Long-time supporter of the Institute, Team every child the healthiest possible start named Auckland City’s Distinguished McMillan BMW commissioned 11 well- to life. In the last issue of Dialogue, I Citizen for 2006. As Friends of the Liggins known New Zealand artists to produce works congratulated the Institute on turning five: we should all be proud of the achievement on shortened BMW bonnets. This innovative five years of research success and public these awards represent. category accompanies Team McMillan’s accolades. The celebrations continue as a 2006 also saw significant developments annual Emerging Artist Award. The bonnets series of prestigious awards and significant for the Friends. A vibrant new Friends’ logo will be auctioned at an event early in 2007 birthdays reinforce the Institute’s mandate of was launched in September and can be seen with proceeds going to the Institute. quality of life through quality of research. gracing these pages above. Team McMillan At the Awards function in October, Liggins’ director Professor Peter Gluckman paid Above: 'Two Heads are Better than One' by Friends of the Liggins’ committee member, This year, the Institute’s inspiration and BMW continued its support of the Institute, Sarah Guppy. “It’s wonderful of BMW to challenge an artist to create something founding patron Sir Graham (Mont) Liggins this year through its annual Art Awards. We tribute to the generosity and commitment of outside-of-the-square in terms of medium and surface,” she said. turned 80. It was his discovery that steroids are very grateful to them and look forward the Team McMillan directors in supporting 2. help mature the lungs of premature babies to realising their gift of the 2006 BMW Art both art and science in Auckland. He Roxane Horton which found him fame and encouraged Bonnets next year. commented on the synergies between them 1. a host of young clinicians to follow in Sadly, we made the difficult decision to as two facets of human creative endeavour. his research footsteps. It is wonderful that cancel the fundraising event Carnivale ’06 many of the innovative programmes and Team McMillan director, Bob McMillan said Mont should choose to recognise his late when ticket sales did not meet expectations. research projects which set it apart. Your it was important to recognise that innovation wife Celia, with a significant donation to We would like to thank all those people and efforts to raise funds and the Institute’s and experimentation are incredibly help fund post-doctoral fellowships at the businesses who got behind our committee, profile are not only greatly appreciated, important to the country’s economic and Liggins. made donations or contributed their time, they will be of benefit to generations of New social development. Zealanders to come. Bonnet artists range from internationally 4. It is similarly wonderful that the effort, products and services. Our special 3. generation of researchers building on Mont’s thanks to Dawson’s, Webb’s, Studio 75 and recognised ‘conceptual’ artist Billy Apple, legacy is now receiving their own accolades. Walker and Hall, Newmarket. Warm regards, to Bonnet Award-winner Jenny Dolezel and Two Liggins’ researchers were recognised So as the year rolls to a close, please take Friends of the Liggins’ committee member, by the Royal Society of New Zealand: a moment to congratulate yourself on the Sarah Guppy. Professor Peter Lobie was made a Fellow contribution you have made to the work of A full-time painter who trained in London and has exhibited widely, Sarah’s work while Dr Mark Vickers received the Charles the Liggins Institute. Without the ongoing Roxane Horton depicts two heads, back-to-back. Sarah, who Hamilton Memorial Prize for outstanding support of members, donors and sponsors, Chair of the Friends of the Liggins has been a Friend of the Liggins since 2004, 6. achievement by a young scientist. Liggins the Liggins would not be able to initiate Institute Committee describes her work as a metaphor for human 5. thought. “The ivy pattern across the faces Our thanks to everyone who gave Friends of the Liggins Institute Charitable Trust of both heads is symbolic of the different their support to Carnivale ’06: A charitable trust was formed in 2004 by a group of people enthusiastic about pathways of the brain we each have within us. The two heads are a commentary on Accent on Living, Adrienne Winkelmann, Allium supporting the Institute’s work. Interiors, Amcal Meadowbank, Anne Geddes all the things our heads contain: thoughts, Photography, Archivista, Aspire, Auckland Fish Trustees actions, responses and feelings.” Market Seafood School, Auckland Philharmonia Roxane Horton, Professor Peter Gluckman, Professor Alastair MacCormick, Harry White While Sarah’s work was not influenced by 8. Orchestra, Aussie Butcher, Bettjeman's Hair, Caron Team McMillan’s choice of the Liggins as Orelowitz - Podiatrist, Concept Jewellers, Cook The Committee its recipient, the neurological content of her 7. Book, Eve's Pantry, David Nathan, Dawson’s, Dent Roxane Horton Anne Hanna Judy Gluckman Man, Face Facts, Fairfax Magazines, Farro Fresh, Michelle Lunt Sarah Guppy Christine White painting echoes the thought process behind Fosters, Fullers, Garlands, Gladstone Tennis Club, Jenny Duncan Stephanie Markson Sarah Williamson scientific enterprise and discovery. Gracious Living Ltd, Herne Bay Yoga, Hilary Martin, Friends of the Liggins Institute, Jenny Dolezel’s winning bonnet, The Ink Incorporated, James Crisp Ltd, Jones Publishing Single-Minded Pursuit of More (V), will Ltd, Kapiti Chesse, Living Simply, Matarangi Beach PO Box 110085 Auckland 1148, New Zealand, Estate Play & Stay, Meridan Land Development, My Telephone 64 9 303 5972, Fax 64 9 373 7497, become part of the Team McMillan Art Blankets, New Zealand Post, Nike Platinum, Nirvana email [email protected], www.liggins.auckland.ac.nz/supporters Collection while the other ten works will be Hair & Beauty, Noel's Salon, NZSO, Pandoro donated to the Liggins Institute for auction at Panetteria, Pasta Italia, Paul Nathan, Pelican Art 1. Billy Apple a suitable event. 9. Line, Prisma Photgraphy, Remuera Upland Motors, The Liggins Institute is committed to maximising the benefit of its research for New Zealand and, where appropriate, seeing its 2. Geoff Tune research translated into effective therapies. Accordingly, in some areas it has licensed its intellectual property to the pharmaceutical The bonnets are currently on display at Rose's Alterations, Royal NZ Ballet, RubADub, industry or to start-up companies associated with the Institute. The terms of these arrangements provide funds which can be 3. George Baloghy Sabato, Scotties, Simply Flowers, Skin Dynamics, committed to public good (ie non-commercial and cutting-edge) research within the University. In accordance with University policy Team McMillan BMW, Newmarket. For more 4. Peter O'Hagan and international practice in developing start-up companies, some staff will, or could, personally benefit from interest in these start-up 5. Martin Ball Spiros Florist, Stephen Marr, Stevenson's, Studio 75, initiatives. The University and, therefore, the Institute have taken this approach with the aim over time of increasing the capacity of information contact Pandora Carlyon on Sugarfree, Tesori, The Bay Tree, Time Out Bookstore, the University and the Institute to undertake novel and leading-edge fundamental research. Most of the research within the Institute 09 373 7599 ext 82305, or view the bonnets 6. Don Packwood is, and will always be, of this nature and can never attract commercial investment. The University and Institute are mindful of the 7. Mark Olsen Toi Toi Floral Art, Toys R Fun, Urbis magazine, need to ensure that donated funds are applied only to the public good research components of the Institute’s activities and cannot online at www.liggins.auckland.ac.nz. Walker and Hall Newmarket, War Hair Design Ritual, be applied (unless requested by the donor) to projects where commercial arrangements have been entered into. Specific procedures 8. Russell Jackson have been developed to ensure this, and potential donors are invited to contact the Institute’s General Manager or the University 9. Mary McIntyre Webbs, Working Style, Zarbo, 42 Below. Registrar for futher information.

PAGE 12 PAGE 13 I would like to help the Liggins Institute and become a valued New book links lifestyle diseases member of the Liggins community Please enrol me as a friend with evolutionary mismatch Single @ $60 per year Double @ $100 per year Lifetime Friend @ $1000 each Business or organisation @ $2000 per year Please accept my donation A new book which explores the evolutionary disparity between our modern lifestyles and our I enclose a donation $ Please contact me about where my donation is directed ancient physiology will be officially launched in the United Kingdom this December. My cheque is enclosed OR Please debit my Visa Mastercard Amex (Please make cheque payable to Friends of the Liggins Institute)

Co-authored by Liggins’ director Professor Peter Gluckman CARDHOLDER NUMBER and The University of Southampton’s Professor Mark NAME Hanson, Mismatch – why our world no longer fits our bodies, ADDRESS re-ignites the nature-versus-nurture debate by proposing CARDHOLDER NAME that the genes we are born with can be modified by our EXPIRY DATE environment. TELEPHONE CARDHOLDER SIGNATURE The book argues that the intra-uterine development of a 21st century human reflects a past out of sync with the EMAIL PLEASE POST TO: Friends of the Liggins Institute, PO Box 110085, contemporary world in which we live. This incongruity BUSINESS/ORGANISATION NAME IF APPLICABLE Auckland 1148, New Zealand could be behind the explosion of modern lifestyle diseases FURTHER INFORMATION: Telephone 64 9 303 5972, Facsimile 64 9 373 7497, Email [email protected] plaguing our society, from diabetes and obesity, to early onset Alzheimer’s. Influencing the body to adapt to its environment is one Thank you for supporting the Liggins Institute. Gifts and membership donations are tax deductible. answer proposed by Professors Gluckman and Hanson: build babies better able to thrive in a world of plenty by We would like to be able to cater to your interests. If you wish, please make a few comments below about what aspects of the Liggins Institute interest you and what you would programming them in-utero, and change our lifestyles to like to know more about or see more of. You may also be willing to describe what motivates you to support the Institute. The information provided will be kept confidential, but better suit our ancient body-blueprint. we will use it to plan our programmes so that our supporters gain maximum benefit from their association with the Institute. Advance copies of Mismatch were favourably received by UK media with Professor Lord Robert Winston’s foreword to the book published in the Times Higher Education Supplement. Preview coverage also appeared in The Guardian and on the BBC.

See also the Oxford University Press blog for Mismatch: http://blog.oup.com/oupblog/2006/11/we_are_surround.html

Mismatch is available in New Zealand bookshops now. When the time is right, after you have provided for your family and friends, you might consider making a gift (sometimes called a legacy or bequest) to the Liggins Institute in Professor Lord Robert Winston will be in Auckland next your will. Please tick here if you would like further information about this option. year for the book’s official launch.

If you no longer wish to receive information about the Liggins Institute please tick here To register your interest in this event, contact Pandora Carlyon on (09) 373 7599 ext 82305. Please fold and tape closed. If you have enclosed a cheque you may prefer to place in an envelope using the FreePost number and address on the reverse of this form. ✂ our knowledge of evolutionary biology Australasia that relies almost solely on grant Sadly many organisations in New Zealand and early life influences to major public and contract support to survive. Most of the must turn increasingly to the philanthropic Share our dreams health issues. major research institutes in Australia were sector for the marginal dollars that make Our established and new scientific started with government grants or have had a real difference. We are no different. We partnerships are all growing but they require very large levels of community support – the have demonstrated our potential but it As we celebrate our fifth anniversary protecting the brain from damage and on last month I co-chaired a workshop with the resources to flourish. The cost of research equivalent institute in Melbourne regularly will require a partnership with our city to it is timely to reflect on where we have breast cancer research. I am proud that World Bank on the cost-benefits of putting is growing far faster than inflation. As expects donations of $8 million or more per meet that. succeeded, where opportunity lies in front of our staff have received recognition at all a greater focus on health at the beginning universities face economic challenge their annum. We are very grateful to those who us, and where we face challenges. levels with a number of prestigious awards of life. This will result in a major project ability to assist becomes more limited. have supported us with donations – the real First and foremost we have succeeded announced this year. At the same time our led from the Institute in collaboration If we are to be world-class we must benefit of those donations will be reflected in in the three domains that matter most: new Classroom continues to generate a huge with researchers in India and the United continue to grow, to develop, and to recruit the ultimate translation of our research into quality in research, quality in staff and demand for its programmes. Kingdom. and next month I will chair a young people. improvements in our children’s development in seeing our research being translated Increasingly we are being seen at the similar event sponsored by the Rockefeller The Liggins is on the way to being as and long term health prospects. This will, into practice. There is no doubt that the hub of the global network of researchers Foundation. In February we will host some of significant for New Zealand science as the in turn, underpin Auckland’s position as work we do is having increasing impact aiming to ensure a healthy start to life. Our the world’s leading developmental scientists America’s Cup was for sport. Yet we are the a recognised centre of world class on promoting a healthy start to life, on international network continues to grow: at a workshop discussing how best to apply only significant medical research institute in medical research. Peter Gluckman

PAGE 14 PAGE 15 fold here fold here

FreePost Authority Number 197380

Friends of the Liggins Institute P O Box 110085 Auckland 1148 New Zealand

✂ Team McMillan and The Liggins Institute A partnership of excellence Team McMillan BMW and MINI support the Liggins Institute’s quest for a healthy start to life. They donate $500 to the Institute every time a Friend or associate of the Institute purchases a new or approved used BMW or MINI; please mention the Liggins Institute at the time of purchase.

Team McMillan BMW

Your Authorised The Ultimate The discerning driver BMW Centre Driving Machine is spoilt for choice

Conveniently undercover and centrally located in Newmarket. 7-15 Great South Road, Newmarket. LMVD. Phone: 09 524 3300. Freephone 0800 188 388. Weekdays 8am-6pm. Saturday 9am-5pm. Sunday by appointment. TeamMcMillan Locally owned and operated 1 Series after another by the name you’ve trusted since 1956 ALWAYS OPEN www.teambmw.com www.teammini.com