The associate professor in the College of Pharmacy is driven to understand what goes wrong inside the islets – small “islands” of hormone-secreting cells in the pancreas – that leads to diabetes.

In the islets, how does a toxic protein buildup called amyloid kill beta cells that produce the essential hormone insulin? And can amyloid formation be slowed or prevented?

Publishing in journals such as Diabetes, Diabetologia, Endocrinology and Molecular Endocrinology, Marzban has relentlessly investigated the molecular mechanisms of the disease.

“We are one of the few labs in the world studying amyloid formation in diabetes,” she says.

Through more than a decade of intensive study (2008 to 2019), Marzban’s lab was the world’s first to identify the process by which amyloid destroys insulin-producing beta cells in human pancreatic islets.

Those findings have now enabled her team to develop a blood test that detects amyloid formation in the pancreas.

“It’s the first diagnostic tool of its kind that can detect amyloid at a very early stage, before it damages cells,” she says.

Amyloid starts forming years before diabetes symptoms appear, Marzban says. By the time symptoms show up, it’s often too late to prevent significant damage to beta cells.

“Currently, there is no treatment to remove amyloid once it forms. But in our lab experiments with cultured human islets, we have identified several drugs that show promise for limiting amyloid formation.”

For individuals at risk of Type 2 diabetes, Marzban says, early detection and treatment to reduce amyloid formation could help protect insulin-producing cells, potentially delaying the onset and progression of the disease.

For people with Type 1 diabetes who have received transplanted islets from deceased donors, reducing amyloid formation could improve the long-term survival of the transplanted islets, decreasing the need for insulin injections.

Marzban earned her PhD in pharmacology at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in 2001. She later pursued postdoctoral work at UBC, the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute and the University of Geneva in Switzerland. After returning to UBC, she joined UM in 2019. She is also a researcher with the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba.

“I spend a lot of time with my trainees and students,” she says. “One of the most important parts of my job is preparing the next generation for their future careers as successful scientists.”

Marzban has long studied diabetes in lab animals. In order to investigate the disease’s effects in humans and compare diabetic with non-diabetic individuals, she receives post-mortem pancreatic tissue, for which she is immensely grateful.

“A loved one has just passed away, and the family needs to make the difficult decision of donating their tissue. It’s their sacrifice that has led to all these discoveries.”

Marzban and her team are now preparing for clinical trials and a patent for the amyloid blood test. “We’re confident the test works well,” she says. “Now it’s about bringing it to market and scaling up production.

“Once our strategy is out there, others will build on it, opening the door to new therapeutic strategies.”

Participants may be receiving care in hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities or through their family doctor. A physician referral is required to join. 

This study aims to address a common problem many patients face: finding the right medication. 

Why finding the right medication is challenging 

More than 25 per cent of Manitoban adults live with mental illness, according to a Manitoba Centre for Health Policy study. 

Many people with moderate to severe mental illness are prescribed psychotropic drugs such as antidepressants, antipsychotics or anti-anxiety medications, either alone or in combination with therapy. 

“Imagine taking a medication you’re hoping will improve your mental health, but then you start getting unwanted side effects or it doesn’t work at all,” said Dr. Jitender Sareen, professor and head of psychiatry at the Max Rady College of Medicine in UM’s Rady Faculty of Health Sciences.  

“Many get frustrated and give up on taking medications. That frustration can delay recovery and, in some cases, lead to more serious outcomes such as hospitalizations or suicidal thoughts. It can take months or even years to find the right medication.” 

How genetic testing can help 

“Pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing analyzes genes to help predict how a person’s body may respond to certain medications,” said Dr. Abdullah Maruf, assistant professor in UM’s College of Pharmacy and researcher at the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba. 

“Specifically, it looks at how genetic differences may affect the way the body metabolizes medications, which can influence drug levels in the body.” 

That’s where the PGx-SUPPORT (Pharmacogenomics-Supported Psychotropic Prescribing Trial) study, led by Maruf and Sareen, comes in. The goal is to bring PGx testing into Manitoba’s public health-care system and improve mental health support across the province. 

Through PGx-SUPPORT, 200 Manitobans can receive a free PGx test – valued at about $500 if done privately – that may help personalize their treatment. Participants and their doctors will get a report showing how genetic differences may affect medication response. 

Why it matters 

Sareen said precision medicine approaches like PGx testing could play a vital role in improving – and potentially saving – the lives of people living with mental illness.  

“PGx testing can make medicine more personalized,” Sareen said. “It could help guide physicians on which medications may be safer or better tolerated, and what steps to take next.” 

Beyond improving care, PGx testing could also reduce costs. Depression care costs an average of $8,244 per person per year in Manitoba.  

“Much of that comes from trial and error – trying different drugs until something works,” said Mahin Hasan, a PhD student at the College of Pharmacy and research assistant on the study. “PGx testing can help reduce health-care costs.” 

A study in British Columbia estimated PGx testing could save the health system $956 million over 20 years.  

Inspired by such potential benefits, Maruf said PGx-SUPPORT could pave the way for Manitoba’s first publicly funded PGx testing facility.  

“While PGx testing is already in use in health-care systems in the United States and Europe, it has not yet been implemented in Canadian public health settings,” Maruf said. 

“We want to show policymakers why this will benefit Manitobans. Will physicians use it to personalize medication for their patients? Will it reduce hospitalizations and rehospitalizations? Improve patient outcomes? Shorten inpatient stays?” 

How to participate 

Manitobans aged 18 and older who are starting or changing mental health medication may be eligible.  

To join: 

1. Ask your physician to send a referral to pharmpgxlab@umanitoba.ca 
2. Complete a consent form and short survey 
3. Provide a saliva sample 
4. Receive personalized test results for free within two weeks of the research team receiving the saliva sample 

Learn more about PGx-SUPPORT at maruf-lab.org/pgx-support or call 431-294-7781. 

Though it is rare, medical or compassionate circumstances may arise which prevent a student from taking an exam as scheduled. An exam deferral is a privilege that may be granted under extenuating circumstances. UM developed the Self-Declaration Policy for Students with this in mind.

If you are unable to write an exam, and have no other available documentation, you must complete the Online Self-Declaration Form to request a deferred exam. Students must be aware that submitting a Self-Declaration Form either dishonestly, or for a non-valid reason, is the same as submitting any other fraudulent (false) document, which may result in disciplinary action under the UM Student Discipline By-Law.

Examples of non-valid reasons

• Attending a personal or family event (e.g., vacation, wedding)
• Optional travel
• Technological difficulties
• Competitions or events, related to personal interests (choir, acting, pageants, exhibitions)
• Employment-related commitments

Examples of valid reasons

• Sudden illness or injury on the day of an exam
• Unexpected compassionate circumstances
• Known conflicts of religious observance
• Bereavement or loss of a loved one
• Participation in an inter-university, provincial, inter-provincial, national or international scholastic or athletic event

Be sure to check in with an advisor in your home faculty to confirm which events and other reasons are relevant and may be supported by the Self-Declaration form. There are some circumstances in which other documentation may be required by your faculty.

If you are experiencing anxiety around your academic obligations, please view the student supports and resources that are available to you, such as:

• Student Wellness Centre, Student Counselling Centre, or other Student Supports to manage stress and anxiety
• Academic Learning Centre for study skills, exam preparation, writing workshops
• Student Accessibility Services if related to an ongoing or chronic health condition

Best wishes to all students preparing for final examinations.

“I hope to be an advocate for the career and to educate others on the importance of RTs in health care.”

Rachel Donnelly

Donnelly was working in Alzheimer’s research and at a group home during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic while trying to determine her next move. The previous UM grad with an honours degree in biological sciences took a leap of faith when she applied to the College of Rehabilitation Sciences (CoRS).  

“I had always wanted to pursue a career in health care but was unsure of where I would fit in the medical community,” she says.

After stumbling onto the CoRS webpage and reading about the respiratory therapy (RT) program, she wasn’t 100 per cent sure what the career would look like but took a chance and applied the same day. “It was one of the best decisions I have ever made,” she says.

During her degree, Donnelly was regularly inspired by her instructors’ passion for the RT profession, especially their advocacy around RTs practising at their full scope as part of primary care in Manitoba.

She also had the opportunity to go to Rwanda with a small group of RT students. There, the group shadowed health professionals in hospitals and learned more about the barriers to health care experienced by people in marginalized communities. Now, as she graduates and begins her career in respiratory therapy, having a positive impact on her community remains a key goal.

“One day, I hope to be an advocate for the career and to educate others on the importance of RTs in health care,” she says.  “Whether that means speaking in schools, working in primary care clinics or travelling abroad to help teach acute care life support courses, only time will tell!”

Her advice for her past self, and anyone embarking on their educational journey? “Keep going; it will all be worth it. And don’t worry about three years of school, it goes by fast!”

UM Bisons are at the center of it all, making a difference here in Manitoba and around the world. 1,395 students are graduating this Fall, bringing the number of graduates in the class of 2025 to 5,586 so far. Many of these new alumni will stay in Manitoba, contributing high-demand skills to the labour market and injecting nearly $300 million into the province’s economy each year.

1. Lounge: The SWC boasts a comfy and convenient lounge space, and anyone is welcome to use it! Sometimes you just need a spot on campus to study, eat lunch, or just decompress, and the lounge is available for any of those purposes and more.
2. Wellness resource library: Come check out the text resources that the SWC has made available for students. You’ll find a variety of books and pamphlets on subjects related to health, wellbeing, safety, and more. Maybe you’ll find the answer to a question, or maybe you’ll discover a new strategy for maintaining your mental health.
3. Harm reduction and health/hygiene supplies: The SWC views wellness from a holistic perspective, so sexual and physical health is an important part of the whole picture of wellness. That’s why they stock safer sex supplies – such as various forms of contraception and HIV self-test kits and menstrual supplies. These materials are available for free to all UM students and can be found in the wellness resource library. If you or someone you know could benefit from these materials, the SWC is a non-judgmental, safe place to source them.
4. Consultations: Interpersonal support is also available. The SWC is staffed with Healthy U Peer Health Educators who are trained to listen to or talk through your wellness needs. If you’re seeking out a higher level of professional care, the SWC is still a great place to start. Peer Health Educators are equipped with a knowledge of further supports at the university and in the wider community, and they can help point you in the right direction.
5. Events: Keep an eye out for the wellness events that the SWC hosts throughout the year! The goal of the events is to help students de-stress, whether by offering fun activities and snacks or by distributing helpful resources. Past activities have included pet therapy, crafts, and movie nights. To stay in the loop on upcoming events, follow @healthyuofm on Instagram or visit healthyuofm.com.
6. No reason at all: You don’t need a reason to visit the SWC! If you’re just curious to check out the space, come poke your head in. The SWC was created to be a comfortable and inclusive place where students can relax; no one will interrogate you about why you’re there. The space operates on a drop-in basis – no need for an appointment, just stop by!

Why not take a minute to check out the SWC this fall? You can find them at 162 Extended Education Complex (Fort Garry Campus) Monday through Friday. Check out @healthyuofm on Instagram for the  most up-to-date open hours. Questions? Reach out to healthandwellness[at]umanitoba[dot]ca.

“We really want to grow the sport of squash in Manitoba and make Manitoba a centre for squash excellence,” said Peter Reimer, President of Squash Manitoba. 

The new squash courts will serve as a hub for students, faculty, and the wider community, offering a space for players of all levels to participate, train, and compete. 

Why UM?

Squash Manitoba has identified UM as the ideal location for this project due to its strategic positioning and large, diverse community. There are currently no squash courts in the southern part of Winnipeg, and UM’s accessibility makes it a prime location for new squash facilities that the entire community can enjoy.

UM is home to over 30,500 students and 9,400 faculty and staff, providing an untapped potential for growing the sport. Moreover, the location —right next to the Active Living Centre on campus — offers easy access to public transportation and is situated near a large population of new Canadians, many of whom have an interest in the sport.

This project is largely supported by Michael Nesbitt, who has close ties to both UM and Squash Manitoba. Nesbitt, an avid supporter, notes, “Squash is a very popular sport. The fact that there will be an internationally sized court at UM, with its diverse population, will be a game changer. It has the potential to totally change squash in our province.” Supporting this project means expanding access to a sport that promotes both health and community.

“Beyond the financial aspect, he has really worked hard to make this happen. And never once did he think we can’t do it. It was always, ‘Let’s find a way. Let’s do this.’” said Lynn Colliou, Executive Director, Squash Manitoba.

With this support in hand, Squash Manitoba in partnership with UM, has committed to raising the remaining $550,000 to fund the development of the new courts.

The vision: a world-class facility in south Winnipeg 

The upgraded squash centre at UM will feature four international-standard courts with glass backs, offering a modern, open feel that encourages participation and spectator engagement. The renovation will transform the current outdated North American courts, which are in poor condition and underutilized, into a state-of-the-art facility capable of hosting tournaments, leagues, and training programs.

Key features of the new facility will include:

• Four international squash courts designed to the highest standards;

• Glass-back walls for improved spectator viewing and coaching opportunities;

• A spacious and open design with improved lighting and flooring; and

• A dedicated viewing area for tournaments and events.

When designing the new squash facility, every detail was carefully considered to meet the high standards of competition-level play. As Simon Wang, Director of the Facilities and Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation, explains, “As the facility will be used for competition, much of the design of the courts themselves (flooring, glass, walls, lighting) is dictated by World Squash Federation guidelines. We were allowed to have a little more fun with the entry and lounge areas – the wood ceiling was chosen for its warmth and acoustical properties, while the rubber flooring was chosen because it is non-porous and easy to keep clean. We took inspiration from squash ‘line markings’ for the flooring’s pattern. The selected furniture adds warmth and sophistication, and can be easily re-configured for competitions or everyday use.” 

These new courts will provide endless possibilities for programming, from beginner lessons and university leagues to provincial team training and national competitions. This facility will not only serve the university but will be a major asset for the entire squash community in Manitoba.

Inclusive programs for all levels 

The new squash courts at UM will cater to a wide range of programs, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Squash Manitoba is committed to making the sport accessible to all, with programs that focus on inclusivity and diversity. Some of the tentative offerings include:

• Junior Programs: Junior team practices, try-outs, and summer camps.

• Beginner Lessons: Free group lessons for university students and staff, as well as introductory programs for children and new Canadians.

• Leagues and Tournaments: Mixed leagues, women’s leagues, university leagues, and tournaments for all skill levels.

• Specialty Programs: Indigenous squash, wheelchair squash, and LGBTQ2S+ squash programs.

• Coaching and Development: Private lessons, high-performance training, and programs for aspiring coaches.

With over 1,800 hours of programming scheduled annually, the new squash centre will become a vibrant hub of activity, fostering the growth of the sport and creating opportunities for players at all levels to improve their skills.

A brighter future for squash in Manitoba 

Squash is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life. It promotes physical health, mental resilience, and a sense of community. The new squash courts at UM will inspire the next generation of players, offering them an accessible world-class facility to hone their skills and compete. “These courts will help us achieve our mission to grow and promote the game of squash in Manitoba. We are lucky to have a pretty good membership base for a small sport, and a passionate group,” said Reimer. “That will grow this sport in Canada and add players to us in the future, so we’re very excited about that.”

The projected completion for the court upgrades is August 2025, introducing a vibrant, state-of-the-art hub where the energy of the community and campus unite. This inclusive space is designed to inspire connection, foster competition, and create memorable experiences for all who walk through its doors. Dr. Doug Brown, Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, shares, “The renovation represents the type of beautiful collaboration that amateur sport needs to thrive. We are grateful to our partners Mike Nesbitt and Squash Manitoba for their passion and willingness to invest in this sport and the University of Manitoba.” For more information about the squash courts upgrade, please visit  Squash Manitoba or visit UM’s Squash Court Renovations donor page.

Although rare, medical or compassionate circumstances may arise which prevent a student from writing an exam as scheduled. An exam deferral is a privilege that may be granted under extenuating circumstances.   UM developed the Self-Declaration Policy for Students with these circumstances in mind. 

If you are unable to write an exam, and no other documentation is available, you must complete the Fillable Self-Declaration Form for submission with your request for a deferred exam(s).  Students should be aware that submitting a Self-Declaration form either dishonestly, or for a non-valid reason, is the same as submitting any other fraudulent (false) document, which may result in disciplinary action under the UM Student Discipline By-Law. 

Examples of non-valid reasons 

• Attending a personal or family event (e.g., vacation, wedding) 
• Optional travel
• Technological difficulties
• Competitions or events, related to personal interests (choir, acting, pageants, exhibitions)
• Employment-related commitments
• Academic/Exam Related Stress

Students who are not able to meet academic requirements due to experiencing high levels of academic or exam-related stress should seek out support by contacting Student  Accessibility Services or Student Support Case Management.  

Examples of valid reasons 

• Sudden illness or injury on the day of an exam
• Unexpected compassionate circumstances
• Known conflicts of religious observance
• Bereavement or loss of a loved one
• Participation in an inter-university, provincial, inter-provincial, national or international scholastic or athletic event 

Be sure to check with an advisor in your home faculty (or your faculty’s website) to confirm which events and other reasons may be supported by the Self-Declaration form. There are some circumstances in which other documentation may be required by your faculty. If you are experiencing anxiety around your academic obligations, please use the student supports and resources available to you, such as: 

• Academic Learning Centre for study skills, exam preparation, writing workshops 
• Student Wellness Centre, Student Counselling Centre, or other Student Supports to manage stress and anxiety
• Student Accessibility Services if related to an ongoing or chronic health condition 

 Best wishes to all students preparing for final examinations.

As reflected in UM’s new strategic plan, MomentUM, the well-being of our community is a core value and we are committed to ensuring that our campuses are a supportive, inclusive, and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Mental health and well-being mean different things to different people. That is why the Task Force on Mental Health and Well-being established a subcommittee to engage in community consultations with students, staff, and faculty, to understand how to better support and advance mental health and well-being across our UM community. What are we doing well in supporting mental health? Where can we improve? Your insights are essential to informing a strategy that truly reflects the needs of our diverse community.

Share your insights

A feedback form has been created to allow community members to share their experiences, challenges, and suggestions. This form is anonymous, private, and confidential.

In-person and virtual consultation events will also take place throughout the Fall Term. These events will be by invitation to targeted groups to ensure a wide range of perspectives are heard.

Please take the time to share your thoughts and help shape the future of mental health at the University of Manitoba.

Health and wellness play a critical role in academic success; the following resources are free, available year-round, and open to UM students:

The Student Wellness Centre (SWC): A drop-in lounge space located at 162 Extended Education on the Fort Garry Campus. Stop by to rest, recharge, connect, and learn. Health and wellness professionals and trained student staff are available for consultation and support on a drop in and appointment basis. The space also hosts health and wellness preventive and promotional initiatives, and offers free safer sex supplies. Follow @healthyuofm for upcoming wellness events and initiatives to take part in!

Spring/Summer Hours – Monday to Friday, 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Student Counselling Centre (SCC):  In addition to one to one counselling, the SCC offers a variety of groups and workshops such as Communication and Conflict, Stress and Wellness 101, and Loss and Grief Supports. Make sure you check the Student Counselling Cenre webpage for current group and workshop offerings. The SCC is located in room 474 UMSU University Centre.

Student Accessibility Services (SAS): Available to provide supports for students with disabilities and to encourage academic success. If you require academic accommodations or accessibility supports, they are available to help. The SAS office is located in room 520 UMSU University Centre. 

Student Support Case Management: Here to help students connect to and navigate multiple supports in order to address complex obstacles and barriers in support of overall health and wellbeing. They understand that it can be hard to find the right resources when you are facing a crisis or emergency in your life and will help you get connected.

University Health Services (UHS): Health care providers such as doctors and nurses on campus who can provide health care to students. They also have a consulting psychiatrist should a student need or be interested in connecting. UHS offers a full range of medical supports and services and both campuses offer virtual and in person appointments.

Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Centre: They provide spiritual support for students who are looking for cultural support as well as services to those experiencing loss, grief or exploring purpose in one’s life. The Spiritual Care team includes chaplains and other spiritual care providers representing a variety of faith traditions. Spiritual health services are available to all; they recognize, affirm and work with your existing values and beliefs. They also offer workshops and events throughout the year like smudging and drumming circles.

Student Services at Bannatyne Campus: A service hub for students and residents in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. Staff provide supports and referrals for personal and academic success.

Sexual Violence Resource Centre (SVRC): The SVRC team can help support and provide information to folks who want to talk about a personal incident of sexual violence or if they are supporting a loved one who has experienced this. Their office is in a private space and services are confidential. They also offer a Healthy Relationships course that can teach you more about topics such as consent and communication.

University can be both exciting and overwhelming. Connecting with resources can help create a sense of community and make you feel supported throughout your academic journey while considering your health and wellbeing. Whether you consider connecting now, or at some point throughout your journey, just know that there are many supports available at UM who want to help you succeed!

“My hands were so sweaty,” says Venegas. “You have no idea how shy I was.”

Venegas, the instructor of the Recreation Services’ bachata class, moved to Mexico City to learn more formally about the bachata style of dance and its cultural history. Born in Oaxaca, Mexico, Venegas says he grew up surrounded by various Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Antillean rhythms at family gatherings and parties and has been dancing all his life.

“My house in Mexico is two hours away from the beach, so I have been exposed to tropical music and dance since I was born,” says Venegas. “I have always taken dance as a way to express my Latino identity.”

Venegas says bachata is a Latin-American social dance, and while his class at UM will teach the basics, its main focus is helping students find their personal style.

“I’m teaching improvisation because life doesn’t have a recipe,” says Venegas. “This class is for students to feel confidence in their bodies and express themselves in a more personalized style.”

Venegas says his confidence from dance has brought him a long way, both in overcoming his shyness and by distance. After travelling to Mexico City in 2017, he came to Winnipeg in 2022 to pursue his master’s in nuclear physics in the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy. He says without his connection to his cultural history through bachata and dance, he wouldn’t have been able to make the move to Canada.

“I love the people and everything in this country,” said Venegas. “But if I had become disconnected from my roots, which are my music and lyrics and the way they help me express myself, I don’t think I would’ve been able to come here.”

The bachata class will have a free class on Thursday, May 2, as part of Recreation Services’ Free Trial Week, which runs from April 29 to May 3. Registration for regular classes, which begin on May 9, is now open.