Dr. Michael Hayden / Medical Genetics Professor / Chief Scientific Officer, Xenon Genetics Inc.

www.xenongenetics.com

Innovation changes the way we treat diseases.

Michael Hayden's breakthrough discovery led to the creation of UBC spin-off company, Xenon Genetics Inc. Incorporated in 1999, the Vancouver-based company is involved in drug discovery and has grown to employ 37 people. Using clinically based approaches, Xenon identifies novel genes and drug targets, which can be utilized to discover new and more effective therapies for common diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity. It has established partnerships with leading pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to develop these targets into drug therapies. It recently entered into an $87-million collaborative agreement with Warner-Lambert Co. that could result in therapeutics to treat low levels of HDL, a condition associated with cardiovascular disease.

Where do you get your inspiration?

Every day counts for the families of individuals who are suffering. The delivery of an effective therapy one day earlier can make a difference.

What was your breakthrough discovery?

I discovered the key gene that controls good cholesterol in humans. With this discovery, we've developed new approaches to raise HDL. Low HDL is the most common risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.

What's next for you?

I plan to continue to make fundamental discoveries that have the potential to be translated into products and services that can influence human health.

What's your favorite activity?

Cycling through the endowment lands is a newly found, but wonderful activity that I can share with my family.

Credo:

Life is precious and we have to make every minute count.