The Brain-Body Institute is focused on understanding the structural and physiological links between the brain and nervous system and bodily functions in health and disease. One major objective is the study of the effects of environmental factors, including stress, early life experience and microbial exposure on the brain and the enteric nervous system, hypothalamic pituitary axis (HPA), and key somatic organs such as the gut.

To determine to what extent the microbiome influences, and in turn is influenced by the brain in the regulation of functions of the brain including behavior. Tied to this main objective, the Institute aims to:

• unite basic and clinical scientists from diverse backgrounds and foster collaborations locally, regionally, nationally and internationally
• conduct and translate research to improve the health and healthcare of the population
• train the next generation of research leaders and provide them with the culture, intellectual stimulation and opportunity to significantly influence the future of science and health care
• foster relationships with relevant private sector partners such as the pharmaceutical and nutrition industries

Operating out of state-of-the-art laboratories at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. The open laboratory design has sophisticated microscopic imaging, neuro-electrophysiological recording equipment, and molecular biological capacity. The animal care facility has dedicated space for behavioral assessment and surgery.