Shannon Dunn

The current focus of my research is to better understand the biology of how certain risk factors for multiple sclerosis impact the immune system to initiate autoimmunity. To understand the biology of risk, our lab takes the approach of better understanding how specific MS risk factors (including female sex, obesity, cigarette smoking, and head trauma) alter the immune system using lab models of MS. If we understand this biology, it will provide important insights into how the disease gets started, but also may reveal new ways of preventing MS.

Beyond this, we are interested in using animal models of MS as models to study neurological progression to find new ways to slow this process MS.

Education

• Post-doctoral fellowship, Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University 2002-2007
• PhD in Kinesiology, University of Western Ontario, Canada, 1997-2002
• MSc in Biology, Laurentian University, Canada, 1994-1997
• BSc in Kinesiology, Laurentian University, Canada, 1990-1994

Appointments and affiliations

• Scientist, Biological Sciences, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute
• Associate Professor, Department of Immunology, University of Toronto
• Adjunct Scientist, Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto
• Affiliate Scientist, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto