A York University researcher has been awarded more than $645,000 in funding for two projects aimed at advancing bone graft technology and improving post-cancer care.
Assistant Professor Razieh (Neda) Salahandish of York University’s Lassonde School of Engineering has secured two major research grants: a $300,000 Ontario Centre of Innovation’s Collaborate 2 Commercialize (OCI-C2C) grant; and a Mitacs Business Strategy Internship (BSI) grant totalling $345,000.
“Dr. Salahandish’s dual success in securing these competitive grants highlights her leadership in translational health research and innovation,” says Lassonde Dean Jane Goodyer. “Her work not only advances scientific knowledge but also delivers tangible benefits to patients, health care providers and the broader community.”
Advancing Bone Regeneration: OCI-C2C Grant
In partnership with AlloNative Inc. – a biotechnology company advancing innovations in regenerative medicine – Salahandish will lead a project that aims to revolutionize bone graft procedures.
The project, titled “Rehydration Buffer for Bone Allografts,” will focus specifically on advancements for orthopedic, dental and trauma surgeries.
Traditional bone grafts are rehydrated with sterile saline prior to use in surgery. This keeps the graft safe from infection but does not help the bone heal or grow. Salahandish’s team is developing a novel rehydration buffer that contains bioactive compounds – ingredients that can encourage bone regeneration, accelerate healing and improve graft-host integration. The project also uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze each patient’s medical information, so doctors can determine the most effective solution for individualized treatment.
The research will span two years, with emphasis on product development, clinical validation and commercialization.
Cancer Survivorship Care: Mitacs Business Strategy Internship
Salahandish will also advance her work on developing an AI-enabled wearable device for non-invasive monitoring of secondary health complications in cancer survivors. With a Mitacs BSI grant totalling $345,000, and in partnership with Scanbo Technologies Inc., the project focuses on “Cancer Survivorship Care Panel: Enhanced Surveillance of Early Signs of Iatrogenic Diseases Raising Upon Cancer Treatment.”
By analyzing sweat biomarkers, the device is designed to detect early signs of cardiovascular issues and inflammation with the goal of improving patient outcomes and reducing strain on the health care system. The device will provide accessible, real-time health monitoring, and will be evaluated through clinical collaborations at University Health Network and the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre.
“We’re working to create practical solutions that help patients recover faster and give cancer survivors better tools to manage their health,” says Salahandish. “By combining biotechnology and artificial intelligence, we hope to make a real difference in patient care and support innovation in Canada’s health sector.”