Dialogue06 . 2006 12

The Liggins Institute begins a New Phase of Life

continued from page 2 "The Liggins Institute’s new status reflects the esteem in which it is held nationally and internationally. AgResearch is pleased to be affiliated with the Institute, and we anticipate much fruitful collaboration." Dr Andy West, CEO AgResearch A new phase of life The Liggins Institute and crown research institute AgResearch have a memorandum of understanding to move forward with collaborative research. alliances with some of New Zealand’s leading The Liggins Institute has been given a new status within the University organisations in the biotechnology, agriculture "Landcorp is delighted that the Liggins Institute has been recognised as The ’s and medical sectors, and attract the best first large-scale research institute. It is fitting recognition of the leading edge research undertaken by the Institute." individuals from around the world to work with Dr Chris Kelly, CEO LandCorp it. There will be greater focus on developing Corporate Agribusiness Landcorp works closely with the Liggins Institute on a number of projects that are international partnerships. expected to bring significant benefits to New Zealand agriculture. “We are honoured to be chosen as the University’s first large-scale research "I’m delighted that the Liggins Institute has been recognised for the quality of its research, and given scope to grow its contributions even more in the future. Neuren is excited about moving forward with the institute,” says Liggins Institute Director Institute in its new phase of life." Professor Peter Gluckman. “It shows that David Clarke, CEO Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd our efforts to ensure that our research is at Biotechnology company Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd develops neuroscience discoveries from the the cutting edge, and to build critical mass Liggins Institute. and national and international partnerships, "Warmest congratulations to the Liggins Institute on this new milestone. It is a strong indication of the are seen as a lever to assist the University to strength of research, international recognition and leadership position held by the Institute." grow further. Dr Justin Vaughan, CEO BrainZ Instruments Ltd “The changed management structure allows BrainZ Instruments Ltd develops and markets a unique brain function monitor invented by Liggins Institute us to focus on the business of research scientists. and this has energised the whole Institute,” "We look forward to continuing and building on our current relationship with the new organisation in what he continues. “We greatly appreciate the has so far been entirely original and exciting research." University Council and the Vice Chancellor Dr Richard Fisher, Fertility Associates for the confidence they have placed in us.” Scientists from Fertility Associates and the Liggins Institute conduct collaborative research into in vitro As the first large-scale research institute, fertilisation. the Liggins will be a model for future such "The move to establish the Liggins as an independent research institute is bold but has the potential institutes within the University. It will to leverage significant opportunities for the Institute and the University. The relationship between the establish the procedures and processes by Liggins and the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences remains strong, and the new arrangement will which they are likely to be run. in the long run strengthen the research capabilities of both." Open since 2001, the Liggins Institute has Professor Iain Martin, Dean of the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at The The Liggins Institute was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in February 2002. Four years later the Institute is taking another major step forward. rapidly moved to a position of excellence. University of Auckland The Liggins Institute grew out of the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences and retains a close Its research focuses on pregnancy, healthy association with it. The Liggins Institute this year became The The Institute will work closely with other way down that path, and thus provides an babies, development and diseases of older age University of Auckland’s first large-scale elements of the University, particularly with ideal starting point for the development of including cancer and neurological disease. "The Liggins Institute is one of the largest entities in the world dedicating a substantial component research institute. the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, such entities. It will itself be something The quality of the Institute’s research gained of its research effort to determining the mechanisms and implications of the developmental origins of The Institute has been made the first to foster research in its area of expertise and of an experiment, but one we are able to health and disease. I am confident that the new status of the Liggins Institute will assist in furthering it the country’s top ranking for biomedical, this research." academic entity with management and its application. undertake with a great deal of confidence health and medical research in the Tertiary Professor Mark Hanson, Director of the Centre for Developmental Origins of organisation that is distinct from the Vice Chancellor of The University of because of the sound base on which we are Education Commission’s ‘performance based Health and Disease at the University of Southampton University’s traditional faculty structure. Auckland, Professor Stuart McCutcheon, building.” research fund’ rankings in 2004. The Liggins Institute has several joint research programmes and appointments with the ‘DoHAD’ centre, which is one of its many international academic alliances. The move is part of a wider strategy by the says “Large-scale research institutes will In practical terms, the move gives the Major successes to date include the University to create a number of large-scale, be different from faculties in that their Liggins Institute a clearer sense of its future, first-ever effective treatment for newborn "The NRCGD congratulates the Liggins on recognition both of the importance of its research and of the world-class research institutes. The focus primary emphasis will be on international and empowers its management to expand babies deprived of oxygen during birth, and a significant contribution it can make to the standing of The University of Auckland." of these institutes will be on ensuring that quality postgraduate teaching and research and grow its key areas of excellence around brain rescue monitor that gives hospital staff Alison Paterson, Chair of the National Research Centre for Growth and research is of the highest standard and rather than on undergraduate teaching. The reproductive, women and children’s health. caring for newborns unprecedented capacity Development’s Governance Board contributes to the University’s standing. Liggins has already moved a considerable The team will build on its current The Liggins Institute is a leading partner in the ‘NRCGD’, one of New Zealand’s Centres of Research to detect brain injury as it happens. Liggins Excellence. scientists also led research providing the first PAGE 5 PAGE 7 PAGE 8 About the cover PAGE 14

06 . 2006 evidence that poor nutrition around the time 12 "I am delighted that the Institute’s efforts have been recognised and that the Liggins Advisory Board has Dialogue of conception might lead to premature birth, been able to assist in developing the Institute to this stage." 06 . 2006 12 and identified an exciting potential breast Graeme Hawkins, Chair of the Liggins Institute’s Advisory Board cancer treatment. The Advisory Board is the main governing body of the Liggins Institute.

The Liggins Institute Dialogue begins a New Phase of Life Introducing the Liggins Institute ambassador Contents this issue A new phase of life 2 Contents this issue: Friends of the Liggins Institute The Liggins Institute is delighted to announce that well-known television presenter Judy Bailey has accepted their invitation to be their Introducing the Liggins Institute ambassador 3 Note to Friends – Roxane Horton 10 ambassador. Judy will assist with promoting the Institute and in seeking sponsorship. Judy will join other supporters at Liggins Institute Prematurity research attracts funding 4 Support from the business world 11 events, and will commence by introducing lectures in the ‘Seasons of Life’ series that starts in July. New ‘Epigen consortium’ to be launched 4 Breast cancer research wins funding 11 “We are extremely pleased that Judy has chosen to be associated with us, and welcome her warmly to the Liggins community. Judy has a Caring for fragile brains 5 Judy Bailey: Liggins Institute ambassador 12 Summer destination: the Liggins Institute 6 Sweat, blisters, and aching bones 12 very strong and passionate commitment to the healthy development of infants and children and she can assist us greatly in communicating Prominent awards to Liggins Institute Director 7 Coming events 13 the results of our research across aspects of our communities,” says Liggins Director Professor Peter Gluckman. Secondary school pupils to learn at the Liggins 8 Share our dreams 14 Seasons of life 9 Turn to page 12 to read about why Judy chose to support the Institute.

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Prematurity research attracts Caring for fragile brains prestigious American funding Working with newborn patients inspires a PhD student at the Liggins Institute

Concern for babies’ brains is at the forefront of Deborah Harris’s research. Funding from the March of Dimes Foundation comes to New Zealand for the first time ever Her interest stems from the fact that her first love is caring for sick newborns, and there are many questions to be answered about the best way explains Dr Keelan, who is also a senior to look after the brains of her tiny patients. lecturer in the Department of Pharmacology. The subject fits perfectly with the Liggins Institute, because much “There are already anti-inflammatory drugs of its prematurity research is driven by major concern that premature available that could block this inflammation, babies are at risk of brain injury, ranging from severe impairment to but these have side effects that could cause developmental delay. problems if used in pregnancy. Pregnant Under the supervision of Liggins Deputy Director Professor , women are currently advised not to take Nurse Practitioner Deborah recently embarked upon a PhD. anti-inflammatory medications. She will research the problem of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) in “Around the world researchers are newborns. This is a fairly common condition in newborn intensive care units investigating a new class of drug that uses a (NICUs), and is known to be associated with brain damage, seizures and process called RNA interference, which we even death. think could effectively stop inflammation. Deborah has seen the problem many times in her 12 years working However, the way this drug type behaves in at Waikato Hospital’s NICU. “I want this research to be able to help the pregnancy tissues is not yet known. Ways patients I care for,” she says. to deliver it safely and effectively without “The bottom line is that we really don’t know what we’re doing at the crossing the placenta and affecting the baby moment – the current standard for when to give extra sugar is based on very also need to be tested.” limited data. The researchers will use a novel laboratory “We might sometimes be unnecessarily upsetting the parents and the set-up that enables testing of drugs on baby when we take babies into NICU to treat them,” says Deborah, who has donated fetal membranes. three children of her own. The March of Dimes is a not-for-profit “We need to find out how low and for how long blood sugar needs to organisation that funds about USD $25 drop to cause brain damage,” she says, “and under which conditions million in research annually. It was formed in babies maintain their brains perfectly well by using their own alternative 1938 by US President Franklin D. Roosevelt brain fuels. Dr Jeff Keelan (left) and Professor Murray Mitchell are launching into an exciting new quest for a drug to fund the fight against polio. People were “We hope to develop new treatment regimes based on the data that we to prevent premature birth. encouraged to donate their dimes to help. gather, and test them in clinical trials.” Today the March of Dimes is dedicated to Much of Deborah’s research will involve observations of The Liggins Institute’s search for a way to Premature birth has been mysteriously fighting birth defects, prematurity and other babies at Waikato Hospital. She will use the Brain Rescue Monitor prevent premature birth has been boosted increasing for the last two decades, and infant health problems. developed by the Liggins Institute researchers (see Dialogue 9, page by funding from the prestigious American now affects around ten percent of births. The research team also includes Professor 3). The ‘BRM’ is the only device in the world to provide constant, March of Dimes Foundation. Premature babies, particularly those born Murray Mitchell, Research Director at the real-time readings of brain activity at the baby’s bedside. The project was one of only two funded before 32 weeks of gestation, are at risk of Liggins Institute, and Dr Raid Alany from Deborah intends to be involved in research for the rest of her career. But she outside the USA out of a total of more than death or permanent disability. the School of Pharmacy at the Faculty of is determined to keep up her clinical work, because she loves it and so she can 30 invited applications worldwide. Currently there is no risk-free treatment Deborah Harris at work with one of her tiny patients. “I am very Medical and Health Sciences. ensure that she does research that will help her patients. The researchers, led by Dr Jeff Keelan of available to delay birth for more than 48 passionate about finding ways to improve the outcomes for babies The causes and consequences of that are born early. My biggest focus is the neurological outcome,” Deborah’s research is funded by the Maurice and Phyllis Paykel Trust, the Liggins Institute, will develop and test hours after contractions start. prematurity are a key focus of research at says Deborah. Photo courtesy of Health Waikato. Waikato Medical Research Foundation and The University of Auckland. anti-inflammatory drugs to safely stop the “We will tackle what we know is a major the Liggins Institute. inflammatory process in the womb that leads cause of premature birth: inflammation in to labour and birth. the fetal membranes that line the womb,” What is a nurse practitioner? Professor Jane Harding A nurse practitioner is a nurse with a clinically focused Deborah’s supervisor Professor Jane Masters degree, and at least five years of experience in a Harding has a reputation as one of the New ‘Epigen consortium’ to be launched speciality area of practice. Some nurse practitioners are world’s leading neonatologists (meaning able to prescribe medications. Deborah is one of only five in a specialist in the field of newborn New Zealand who have been granted prescribing rights by babies), both in her clinical work at A new research partnership focussing on Epigenetics is the science of how traits may be changed before birth. It is also the New Zealand Nursing Council. She underwent rigorous National Women’s Hospital and in her the emerging science of epigenetics is to environmental factors during pregnancy can relevant to agriculture, because an animal’s training to qualify for the new registration, which came into exceptional academic research. “It’s a begin this year. The partners are the Liggins permanently change the expression of the health and productivity may be influenced effect in December 2005. She uses her prescribing rights big privilege to be working with her,” Institute and AgResearch in New Zealand, baby’s genes. It is a relatively new field, but by the conditions it experiences as a fetus. in her NICU work, and plans one day to run an innovative says Deborah. and groups from the Medical Research there has been an explosion of information The research consortium will be formally clinic to support families of babies who were in NICU and Council and the University of Southampton about it in recent years. For humans, it launched this month. need extra support after leaving hospital. in the United Kingdom. means that genes influencing certain health

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Summer destination: Prominent awards to the Liggins Institute Liggins Institute Director

Liggins Institute Director Professor Peter Gluckman has been honoured Students from a range of backgrounds spent their vacation getting a taste of research with two significant awards this year, one in New Zealand and one in the United Kingdom. The World Class New Zealand Awards, which were presented in March, recognise successful New Zealanders who enhance the nation’s growth and development by being world class in their field. This year they were made across six different sectors. Professor Gluckman won the award for the Research, Science, Technology & Academia sector. Presented by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise and Kea (Kiwi Expatriats Abroad), they are one of New Zealand’s most important accolades for outstanding individuals who have made major contributions to New Zealand’s success on the world stage. “I hope we have demonstrated that it’s possible from New Zealand to do world class research to improve public health and basic science knowledge on one hand, and to promote the economic development of this country through commercial application on the other,” said Professor Gluckman. New Zealand Nobel Laureate Professor Alan MacDiarmid was the overall ‘World Class New Zealand’ winner. “I am delighted that Professor MacDiarmid was recognised with the Supreme Award because it reaffirms my belief that New Zealanders punch above their weight in the advancement of knowledge,” said Professor Gluckman. In April, Professor Gluckman was elected as a Fellow of the United Kingdom’s Academy of Medical Sciences. The election makes him the first New Zealander to receive this tribute. The Academy of Medical Sciences is an independent learned society. It promotes advances in medical science, and campaigns to ensure that these A large group of students from schools and university experienced research life at the Liggins Institute last summer. are translated into healthcare benefits for society. Only 22 of the Academy’s 800 Fellows are based outside the United The Liggins Institute was alive with the Another group of school pupils who dipped for the whole summer. The Institute hosted Kingdom. All Fellows are leading medical scientists from hospitals, sound of excited students last summer. A their toes into the waters of medical research 16 students from the Faculty of Medical and academia, industry and the public service, and are selected primarily total of 25 school and university students, came through Whakapiki Ake, a programme Health Sciences for ‘summer studentships’. for their exceptional contribution to the advancement of medical many of whom had never been to the run by the Faculty of Medical and Health These paid projects were nominated by science. Election is considered to be recognition for achievement at the Institute before, gave up part of their holiday Sciences. The programme aims to boost the senior researchers who had a small area of highest levels. to work with Liggins scientists. number of Maori health professionals in the research they wanted assistance on. Vice-Chancellor of The University of Auckland, Professor Stuart Eric Harris was one of nine high school health sector. Nisha Antony chose a project called McCutcheon, said that he was delighted to see Professor Gluckman pupils sponsored by the Rotary Club of The Whakapiki Ake programme includes ‘Placental efficiency and myostatin’ run by honoured in this way. “Professor Gluckman is undoubtedly one of New Ellerslie Sunrise Inc to experience research summer work exposure for pupils at the end Liggins Professors Murray Mitchell and Zealand’s leading medical researchers, with contributions that span from activity at the Liggins. The successful pupils of their high school years. Janine Taylor John Bass. Under their supervision she fundamental research through to research commercialisation and the Professor Gluckman took this photo during a recent trip to India. came top of a Rotary essay competition of Dargaville High School was one of five worked to find the best way to identify the application of research results to solving real life problems,” he said. He has a strong interest in the lifelong effects of being born small, on ‘Medical research: what should it do pupils who came to the Liggins Institute by protein myostatin in placental cell lines. Professor Gluckman will be admitted to the Academy in June at a formal which is a particular problem in developing countries where women are poorly nourished. for society?’ this route. Nisha’s study is part of wider research at ceremony for new Fellows. Eric, fresh from his final year of schooling At the end of her eight days at the the Institute into how the placenta functions, at Auckland’s Rosehill College, was paired Institute, Janine was enthusiastic about a with the aim of improving the outcome of with Liggins neuroscientist Dr Thorsten career in the health-related sciences. “I growth restricted pregnancies. Gorba. They looked at how the brain’s definitely want to be in the health field – I’ve Currently Nisha is enrolled in an MSc continued from page 6 stem cells grow and divide in response to even been considering medicine lately,” (Medical Science). For her thesis project certain hormones. she said. she will continue the research she began “I came here to see in action what I This year Janine is embarking on a during her studentship. learned in the classroom,” said Eric of his Bachelor of Science at The University of “I’ve been encouraged to hypothesise and Nisha’s studentship was sponsored by the The Liggins Institute is committed to To support these efforts or to make any time at the Liggins Institute. “It certainly Auckland, with biomedical science as tailor my project to explore my aim. It feels School of Medicine Foundation. reaching out to the wider community and enquiries, please contact Pandora Carlyon, lived up to my expectations.” Eric has this her specialisation. really nice to work it out,” she says. This coming summer there will be three giving bright young people opportunities the Institute’s Manager of Communications year embarked on his first year of a degree Concentrated research into a specific “It’s great to work here,” she adds. “This summer studentships at the Liggins Institute to gain hands-on experience of medical and Advancement, on 09 373 7599 in medicinal chemistry at The University topic was the name of the game for the third place has pioneer scientists working in their supported by funds donated by the Friends research. Ongoing plans are being made to ext 82305. of Auckland. group of students who worked at the Liggins own respective fields.” of the Liggins Institute. continue and extend these efforts.

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Secondary school pupils to learn Seasons of life at the Liggins A series of public talks at the Liggins Institute will highlight different phases of life

This year the Liggins Institute is pleased children hit puberty at about the same age as in ‘Hormones and hope: breast cancer under Prime Minister to open one-of-a-kind facility to present a lecture series entitled ‘Seasons they do now. In today’s immeasurably more the microscope’. They will also describe of Life’. complex society, however, early adolescence what it takes to turn a laboratory discovery Part of the Liggins Institute’s mission is to is producing significant problems. into a prescription medicine. New Zealand increase the lines of communication between What should we do about it? The social Breast Cancer Foundation representative scientists and society, and to question the side of the issue will be dealt with by Ginny Harwood will describe how women relationship between scientific advances renowned adolescent health researcher, are hungry for information on how to reduce and the social context in which research teacher and primary practitioner Dr Sue their risk of breast cancer. is performed. Bagshaw. Sue was the President of the The series will be free and open to the The Liggins ambassador, Judy Bailey, will International Association of Adolescent public, and there will be time for audience introduce the talks. Health until last year. discussion. Drinks and nibbles will follow Talks will be presented by experts from The final lecture of the series will take each talk. within and outside the Liggins Institute place on 18th October. Liggins Institute For an invitation, please contact Pandora in a manner that can be understood by cancer researchers Professor Peter Lobie and Carlyon on 09 373 7599 ext 82305, email non-scientists. Dr Jo Perry will explain their breakthrough [email protected]. Seats are limited The first lecture of the series, temjan_feb2006a.qxd on 19th findings about 11/11/05 a major 12:45 causepm Page of 1breast cancer and bookings are necessary. July, will begin at the beginning: conception. ‘The importance of a good conception’ will explore how conditions surrounding a baby’s conception can influence its health for the rest of its life. Neonatologist Dr Frank Bloomfield from the Liggins Institute will discuss emerging evidence that poor nutrition around the time a woman conceives is related

to premature birth. Dr John Peek from Tr Fertility Associates and Dr Paul Hofman Metab. Endocrinol. ends from the Liggins Institute will relate this to the nutrition of embryos conceived in a laboratory, and discuss how this affects Classroom co-ordinator Yuliana Yosaatmadja explains laboratory equipment to pupils from Long Bay College, Auckland. the health of the increasing number of IVF children. A unique education centre at the Liggins been helping to bridge the gap between the Lion Foundation, the Sir John Logan On 2nd August, ‘The vital years of child

Institute, called the Sir John Logan Campbell secondary and tertiary education in biology Campbell Residuary Estate, The University hood’ will be presented by Dr Susan Morton J anuary/February 2006 Vol. 17 No. 1, pp. xxx–xxx xxx–xxx pp. 1, 17No. anuary/February 2006 Vol. Classroom, will be opened by the Rt. Hon. and biotechnology for two years. of Auckland and the National Research from the Liggins Institute, and Associate in June. “The speed of advances in biology and Centre for Growth and Development. Professor Richie Poulton of Otago University. The classroom will provide secondary biotechnology is such that schools sometimes The programme has been accelerated Dr Poulton is the Director of the Dunedin school pupils with their own classroom in a struggle to keep up with the required thanks to a grant from the Tertiary Multidisciplinary Health and Development Evolution, successful research institute where they can apparatus and know-how,” says Sandie Education Commission’s Innovation and Research Unit. Both will speak on so-called learn hands-on research skills. MacLeod-Smith, who came to the Liggins Development Fund to develop resources ‘longitudinal’ studies that follow children Pupils will be given experience of Institute from St Cuthbert’s College as one of for year 13 students. This project is headed through life and draw a holistic picture development procedures that are commonplace in the first teachers on the programme. “To be by the Liggins Institute in collaboration of how early events influence later health biological research yet difficult to teach able to access the equipment and expertise with the School of Biological Sciences and and behaviour. in schools. They will hear from practicing at the Liggins Institute will be a wonderful the Faculty of Education at The University Dr Morton is involved in the planning for and timing scientists about how these techniques and support for teaching and learning.” of Auckland. a proposed new study, while Dr Poulton has research strategies are applied to solving Liggins Institute Director Professor Peter “This is an amazing opportunity to develop a wealth of fascinating outcomes to present of puberty problems of modern medicine. Gluckman hopes that the project will switch students’ awareness and understanding of from the Dunedin study, which has now The curriculum and smooth running of young people on to science. “Even though the impact and potential of biotechnology,” followed its subjects for 32 years. Dr Poulton the centre will be taken care of by a much of the New Zealand economy is says Dr Bev France, principal lecturer has a particular interest in how psychosocial 1043-2760ISSN Staging and treatment of thyroid carcinoma programme co-ordinator and an experienced based on biology and biotechnology, many in the School of Science, Mathematics factors influence physical health. Adipose tissue as a target for novel therapies school teacher dedicated to teaching students fail to see the career opportunities and Technology within the Faculty Teenage angst will come under scrutiny visiting pupils. in this area. We hope that their experiences of Education. on September 6th when ‘The evolution of Cardiovascular effects of ghrelin and GHS Schools’ need for a facility of this kind in the Logan Campbell Classroom will give There are also plans to open the centre for the adolescent brain’ is discussed. Liggins was presented to the Institute by teachers them an insight into the exciting world of ‘Back to School’ classes for adult learners Institute Professor Peter Gluckman will Read TEM articles online up to one month before they appear R working there as part of a programme, now research,” he says. wishing to update their knowledge. explain why adolescence strikes earlier in your print journal www.sciencedirect.com known as the Liggins Institute Fellowship Funding to set up the classroom has come now than it used to – unless the point Professor Gluckman’s studies of the evolution of the timing of puberty were published in this journal for Teachers (LIFT) programme, which has from a number of sources. These include of comparison is the Stone Age. Then, earlier this year.

PAGE  PAGE  Support from the business world: Team McMillan BMW and MINI

his unique ability to explain scientific facts Note to Friends with humour and in layman terms. We are delighted to announce that the Happy Fifth Birthday to the Liggins Institute Liggins Institute will be this year’s chosen recipient of proceeds from the annual Team Supporters of the Liggins have a lot to a healthy start to life. A healthy start for McMillan BMW Art Awards. As in 2005, be excited about: The Liggins has just all babies is of course the primary goal the inaugural year of the awards, we will turned five; it has become a bona fide large- of the Institute’s research. Who amongst be commissioning 11 leading New Zealand scale research institute; funds raised by the us couldn’t fail to care deeply that all artists to create works of art on customised Friends have been allocated to important babies should enjoy the best of health BMW bonnets. Ten of these will be donated projects and we have several social occasions from conception onwards? An embryo needs to the Liggins Institute to auction at what being planned. to implant properly, be well nourished promises to be a memorable fundraising party First, a note to Friends who might be throughout the pregnancy and preferably at the Maritime Museum on 4th November. wondering where their issue of Hand in enjoy a full term of gestation in order to get I have always felt a keen responsibility as Hand has gone. The short answer is that it the best possible start to life. Sadly, things a businessman to “give something back” to various community projects and charitable is here, as part of Dialogue. We decided that sometimes do go wrong and I am grateful Roxane Horton many of the articles in Hand in Hand were that Liggins scientists are working hard on institutions. I see definite benefits from forming partnerships with and donating of interest to an audience even wider than these and many other aspects of pregnancy Thank you to all the people who support the funding and energy towards well-run Friends, and that the funds used to produce and birth. Institute and have chosen to be involved in Bob McMillan with Lord Robert Winston and Professor Peter Gluckman. charitable causes. I hope that this will and mail a separate newsletter could be This year the University has given the its life and activities by becoming members continue to be an increasingly common better used elsewhere. I hope you enjoy this Institute a massive vote of confidence by of the Friends of the Liggins Institute. Team McMillan BMW and MINI in both have a strong commitment to quality, aspect of business life in New Zealand. bumper issue of Dialogue and these pages naming it as the first large-scale research We are grateful to the many Friends who Newmarket, Auckland, is a valued supporter and are dedicated professionals in our I personally recommend the Liggins dedicated to you. institute within the University. My have renewed their membership and hope of the Liggins Institute. Team McMillan respective lines of work. Institute as a rewarding and worthy recipient So, what happened five years ago.... In congratulations to Professor Gluckman and that you continue to enjoy your valued underwrites the production costs of this Team McMillan’s association with the of charitable support. The team make sure autumn of 2001, the soon-to-be Liggins his team – I am honoured to be involved association. newsletter, and provides extra behind-the- Liggins Institute, which began two years that all interactions are pleasant and that researchers and support staff moved into with you. Finally, do look closely at the ‘Coming scenes support. ago now, has been hugely rewarding. It is a mutual benefit is sought wherever possible. their new place of work on Park Avenue in I am pleased to announce that funds events’ list on page 13. I hope to see Here Bob McMillan, Director of Team privilege to feel like part of the team when Science funding from the public sector in Grafton. The four-story building, formerly raised by the Friends of the Liggins Institute many of you at these functions, which McMillan BMW and MINI, explains what the Institute announces another success. New Zealand is scanty compared to many the home of the New Zealand Blood Service, Charitable Trust will support three summer promise to be enjoyable and interesting motivates him to support the Institute’s quest We hosted some of our valued customers developed countries, yet we have scientists was converted into laboratories and offices. studentships this coming summer – see page as always. Five years later the number of researchers 6 for more about summer students. They will for a healthy start to life. at the Institute as a joint initiative to show who are thoroughly world class and pressing off their research facilities and also had the health issues that need solving. I encourage has grown from around 70 to 120. A search also fund three science innovation awards Warm regards, of the Institute’s website reveals numerous within the Institute. These will provide The Liggins Institute and Team McMillan honour of meeting Lord Robert Winston at any business looking for a philanthropic publications in esteemed scientific journals seed funding for junior scientists to embark are based on a partnership of excellence. We this function, where he entertained us with cause to approach the Liggins Institute. – but non-scientists like me particularly on original research that is very promising enjoy the practical outcomes, such as the but outside standard government-funded Team McMillan and The Liggins Institute A partnership of excellence first-ever treatment for babies deprived of research criteria. I know that the Liggins Roxane Horton Team McMillan BMW and MINI support the Liggins Institute’s quest for a healthy start to life. They donate $500 to the Institute every oxygen during birth. Institute sees this type of research as crucial Chair of the Friends of the Liggins time a Friend or associate of the Institute purchases a new or approved used BMW or MINI; please mention the Liggins Institute at the The Liggins Institute has certainly had to its world-leading status. Institute Committee time of purchase.

Friends of the Liggins Institute Charitable Trust The Liggins Institute is committed to maximising the benefit of its research for New Zealand and, where appropriate, seeing its research translated A charitable trust was formed in 2004 by a group of people enthusiastic into effective therapies. Accordingly, in some areas it has licensed its about supporting the Institute’s work. intellectual property to the pharmaceutical industry or to start-up Breast cancer research companies associated with the Institute. The terms of these arrangements Trustees provide funds which can be committed to public good (ie non-commercial and cutting-edge) research within the University. In accordance with Roxane Horton, Professor Peter Gluckman, wins funding Professor Alastair MacCormick, Harry White University policy and international practice in developing start-up companies, some staff will, or could, personally benefit from interest in Committee these start-up initiatives. The University and, therefore, the Institute have taken this approach with the aim over time of increasing the capacity Breast cancer research at the Liggins Institute has been given a recent boost by a New Roxane Horton Anne Hanna Judy Gluckman of the University and the Institute to undertake novel and leading-edge Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation grant to researchers Dr Jo Perry and Professor Philippa Clayton Michelle Lunt Sarah Guppy fundamental research. Most of the research within the Institute is, and Peter Lobie. Worth $50,000 annually for three years, the grant will be used to test Jenny Duncan Stephanie Markson Sarah Williamson will always be, of this nature and can never attract commercial investment. Lisa Gibson Christine White The University and Institute are mindful of the need to ensure that whether blocking growth hormone produced in the breast improves the effectiveness of donated funds are applied only to the public good research components anti-oestrogen cancer therapy. The grant will fund a PhD student and will help Dr Friends of the Liggins Institute, of the Institute’s activities and cannot be applied (unless requested by the Perry develop one of three specialty breast cancer research groups within the Liggins PO Box 110085 Auckland, New Zealand, donor) to projects where commercial arrangements have been entered Institute. The researchers will speak publicly about their work on 18th October (see page Telephone 64 9 303 5972, Fax 64 9 373 7497 into. Specific procedures have been developed to ensure this, and potential donors are invited to contact the Institute’s Chief Operating Officer or the 9 for details). email [email protected] www.liggins.auckland.ac.nz/supporters University Registrar for futher information. Dr Jo Perry

PAGE 10 PAGE 11 Judy Bailey: Coming events Liggins Institute ambassador Prime Minister to open the Sir John Logan Campbell Classroom Judy explains what motivates her to support the Institute The Prime Minister Helen Clark will formally open the Sir John Logan Campbell Classroom at the Liggins Institute on 16th June. Open days, lectures and displays are I am honoured to be associated with the Sadly, some children receive brain being planned over the coming months to show the classroom off to Friends, supporters, Liggins Institute. I have known and admired injuries before their parents even get a and school and community groups. See page 8 for more about the classroom. Peter Gluckman for some time, but when I chance to take them home. These include received his invitation to visit ‘the Liggins’ babies who are born very prematurely, or Sir John I knew very little about the Institute and who suffer oxygen deprivation during birth. Logan Campbell its research. The Liggins Institute is currently engaged Once I’d learnt more about the scope and in ground breaking research in a quest to Seasons of Life lecture series quality of research done there, I realised prevent and treat prematurity and brain Four lectures exploring health and social issues of different phases of life will run that much of its work is in tune with my own injury. between July and October. They will be free and open to the public, and feature interests and concerns. I was particularly I’m particularly looking forward to meeting expert speakers from within and outside the Liggins Institute. The series is part happy to see how much focus the Institute some of the world renowned scientists who of the Institute’s Science, Medicine and Society Programme. See page 9 for a places on the healthy development of babies visit the Institute. The Liggins regularly has full description. and children. opportunities for the public to hear these As a founding member of the Brainwave scientists speak in a user-friendly way. Early life Trust it was also heartening to see how The Liggins Institute can only succeed much of the Liggins’ research is focussed with its research if it gets tangible The ‘David Beckham of Science’ to speak on the brain. Brainwave emphasises the community support, and I’ll be delighted Nobel Prize-winning biologist Sir Paul Nurse will speak at a dinner in support of the importance of experience on the developing if I can help in that area. With the Institute Liggins Institute on 31st July. This quirky motorbike rider is President of Rockefeller brain, particularly in the first three years now well established and demonstrating that University. In 1999 he was honoured with a knighthood in the United Kingdom for of life. Neuroscientists now know a child’s its research is so important to the health of services to cancer research and cell biology. His visit to New Zealand, which includes experiences in those critical first years have our children, the time is right to encourage public lectures throughout the country and two in Auckland, is being sponsored by the a dramatic impact on shaping the brain, and strong support for its work. Royal Society of New Zealand. thus on shaping the sort of person that child will become. Sir Paul Nurse

Artworks at the Hilton Sweat, blisters and aching bones The Liggins Institute will this year again be a beneficiary of Mazda Artworks at the Hilton (see enclosed flyer). Artworks is a charity art exhibition and sale at the Hilton Hotel, Princes Wharf, that raises funds for organisations A Liggins Institute student put her body on the line for cancer research that promote the growth and development of young people. It is organised by the Rotary Club of Ellerslie Sunrise Inc and will run from 28th August to 2nd September. Funds raised for the Institute will go towards research into the causes of prematurity (see pages 4 and 5 for more about this research). Thirty percent of the purchase price Dragging yourself around a running track to raise funds for cancer prevention and They suspect that growth hormone may drive of each piece sold will be donated to the beneficiary organisation nominated by the purchaser. To make it easier at 3am is tough going, especially if you’ve clinical research. the cancer’s resistance to anti-oestrogen Get ready for Auckland’s biggest week of art. to direct this donation to the Liggins Institute, intending Artworks visitors should contact Pandora Carlyon on been going since the day before. But Liggins “My main motivation in taking part was therapies. 375 Artists. 600Get Artworks. ready 6 days forof Exhibition Auckland’s and Events. 09 373 7599 ext 82305 to receive a card identifying them as Liggins supporters. 2006 Charity Art Exhibition and Sale. 28 August – 2 September, 10am – 4pmbiggest daily. The Hilton week Auckland, Princesof art.Wharf. Institute student Teresa Yang did just that the fact that I’d seen friends and close “If our suspicion turns out to be true, www.mazdaartworks.co.nz 375 Artists. 600 Artworks. 6 days of Exhibition and Events. 2006 Charity Art Exhibition and Sale. 28 August – 2 September, in February for a cause that she also works family members battle cancer. It’s something it would be a revolutionary discovery,” 10am – 4pm daily. The Hilton Auckland, Princes Wharf. www.mazdaartworks.co.nz towards every weekday: preventing and that has such widespread effects, and this says Teresa. “Growth hormone blockers AZ0171 ArtWorks DLE.indd 1 21/4/06 10:08:52 AM curing breast cancer. would be my small contribution towards are already available, so doctors could AZ0171 ArtWorks DLE.indd 1 21/4/06 10:08:52 AM Teresa plodded from 2pm to 2pm with a preventing and treating these diseases,” effectively remove that hormone in the team of 20 young people from the Rotaract she says. breast. That would allow the anti-oestrogen Club of Pupuke. The organisation is for Teresa held a summer studentship at the therapies to continue to be effective.” It’s our party! students and professionals aged 18 to 30, Liggins Institute last summer (see page 6), A very special party in support of the Liggins and operates with similar principles as and has just begun the honours (research) Institute will be held at the Maritime Museum, Rotary. It aims to help members develop year of her biomedical science degree at Viaduct Basin, on the evening of 4th November. leadership and professional skills, as the Institute. Working under the guidance of The event will celebrate the fifth birthday of the well as contributing to both the local and Dr Jo Perry and Professor Peter Lobie, she Liggins Institute. One of the party’s main features international community. will look at the way breast cancer cells can will be an auction of ten unique works of art by “We took turns to run, walk and eventually become resistant to the protective effects of leading New Zealand artists on customised BMW hobble our way around the track for 24 anti-oestrogen therapies. bonnets. Commissioned for the Team McMillan hours,” said Teresa. “Our team dressed up The research is part of the Institute’s BMW Art Awards, the bonnets will be donated by as mad scientists looking for the cure for breast cancer team’s effort to further delve Team McMillan to raise funds to support research cancer, and raised over $2500.” into their novel discovery that growth at the Institute. The event was Relay for Life, an event hormone produced in the breast makes Secretary of the Rotaract Club of Pupuke Julie Spray plays the mad scientist with young participants in Three of the bonnets of 2005 held by the Auckland Cancer Society breast tumours proliferate and spread. the Relay for Life

PAGE 12 PAGE 13 I would like to help the Liggins Institute and become a valued About the cover member of the Liggins community The Liggins Institute was Liggins scientists have named for Aucklander developed the only device in Please enrol me as a friend Professor Sir the world to provide constant, Single @ $60 per year Double @ $100 per year Lifetime Friend @ $1000 each Business or organisation @ $2000 per year and his lifesaving treatment real-time readings of brain for premature babies. Institute activity at a patient’s bedside. researchers are continuing Known as the Brain Rescue Please accept my donation Professor Liggins’ search for Monitor, it is in demand by I enclose a donation $ Please contact me about where my donation is directed the causes of prematurity and newborn intensive care units My cheque is enclosed OR Please debit my Visa Mastercard Amex ways to prevent it. They have and is being used in a number of clinical studies. The BRM is an discovered a link between prematurity and undernutrition around example of Liggins research being successfully commercialised in the time of conception. They are also searching for ways to treat a way that helps patients. CARDHOLDER NUMBER fetal growth restriction, and are discovering more and more about the lifelong effects of being born small. Growth and development research at the NAME Liggins Institute is often highly applicable ADDRESS CARDHOLDER NAME The Institute’s research focus on to the agriculture that underpins New

growth and development extends Zealand’s economy. Accordingly, EXPIRY DATE to the uncontrolled division of the Institute has strong links with the TELEPHONE CARDHOLDER SIGNATURE cells – cancer. Liggins breast agricultural community, and conducts EMAIL cancer researchers have made collaborative research with a number of PLEASE POST TO: Friends of the Liggins Institute, PO Box 110085, Auckland, New Zealand the major discovery that growth partners. It is a leading partner in the BUSINESS/ORGANISATION NAME IF APPLICABLE FURTHER INFORMATION: Telephone 64 9 303 5972, Facsimile 64 9 373 7497, hormone produced by the breast National Research Centre for Growth Email [email protected] makes cancer cells (pictured) and Development, one of the country’s become invasive and therefore far more lethal. Centres of Research Excellence, which also includes AgResearch and Massey Thank you for supporting the Liggins Institute. Gifts and membership donations are tax deductible. This healthy five-year-old, Cody Crump, University. suffered oxygen deprivation at birth 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 and was immediately given the only Paediatricians carry out 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 treatment available for that condition. research at the Liggins Institute we will use it to plan our programmes so that our supporters gain maximum benefit from their association with the Institute. Known as the CoolCap, it cools the brain in addition to their clinical and reduces the chance that brain injury work. This is part of the strong caused by lack of oxygen will turn into interface between laboratory permanent damage. The CoolCap was and clinical research, ensuring developed by Liggins Institute scientists. that the Institute’s research is Its effectiveness has been demonstrated relevant to real-life problems. in an international clinical trial. The Institute’s Maurice and Nessie Paykel Clinical Research Unit is superbly equipped for performing metabolic studies in children and young people.

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Liggins Institute Director Peter Gluckman describes the future of the Institute 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.

In the Liggins Institute’s short life, we have Treatment of such babies has come a long ✂ achieved some chart-topping successes. way, but substantial problems remain. How But our vision for the future is even should we best ventilate and feed them so Connection with researchers across the Every dollar that assists with the remainder We also undertake some contract research greater. With your help we can perform to they do not have long-term health problems? globe is increasingly important for achieving will be of enormous value. on behalf of commercial companies where the utmost of our ability by overcoming How do we treat brain damage in these success. New Zealand-based scientists need Many parts of our vision are expensive, we can do so without interfering with financial constraints. babies? We have the expertise to answer funds to travel. We need to be able to but the expenditure will be efficient. our core mission, but these sources To date, Liggins scientists have achieved these questions, but need to cover the high employ more of the world’s best scientists Preventing premature birth, for example, are limited and unpredictable. To grow several ‘world-firsts’ (see above). In 2004, cost of facilities and staff. – and to be in a position to make them rapid would save health and education systems and develop, and to carry out the most the Institute was ranked top in New Zealand Brain injury is a widespread problem. employment offers before they go instead to millions of dollars (and families from speculative and innovative research, we for biomedical, health and medical research Liggins scientists have made outstanding wealthy northern hemisphere institutions. massive heartache). Preventing and treating need philanthropic help. by the Tertiary Education Commission. discoveries about how the brain develops Our most urgent need is for specialised fetal growth restriction will later mean that I hope you can help us give future generations But we want to do much more. Here I and heals itself. This knowledge can be equipment to enable us learn how the far fewer adults need treatment for diseases the gift of better health. describe some of our aspirations, in the applied to at-risk groups such as cardiac environment affects genes. This knowledge such as heart disease and obesity. hope that you will help us turn them into surgery and stroke patients, and older people will enable us to stay at the forefront of Why do we need such help? The Liggins concrete results that mean better health for facing diseases such as Alzheimer’s and research internationally and has massive Institute competes successfully for public more people. Parkinson’s. However, we need investment to potential to improve a wide range of health research funding – but New Zealand’s About 600 babies are born very help us develop and translate our knowledge outcomes. The equipment costs about investment in medical research is low prematurely in this country each year. into therapies for these groups. $450,000, of which we have raised half. compared to many other countries. Peter Gluckman Peter Gluckman

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Dialogue is published by the Liggins Institute. Previous issues of Dialogue are available from the Institute. They can also be accessed as pdfs at ✂ www.liggins.auckland.ac.nz/newsandevents/. Stories may be reproduced with acknowledgement.

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