Jacques Drouin

Jacques Drouin is a Full Professor and Researcher in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine at the University of Montreal, affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine. He also serves as Director of the Molecular Genetics Research Unit at the Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM). His research focuses on transcriptional regulation mechanisms, particularly in developmental biology, senescence, cancer, and hormonal regulation. Key contributions include the discovery of Pitx1 and Tpit transcription factors, which regulate pituitary development and function. He has mentored numerous students and secured grants from agencies like CIHR and FRQS.

Education:

• Postdoctoral training in Biochemistry (1981), University of California
• Postdoctoral training in Molecular Biology (1978), MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, UK

Research Interests:

Dr. Drouin studies transcriptional control of gene expression, focusing on Pitx and Tpit factors in pituitary development, hindlimb identity, and Parkinson's disease. His work explores chromatin remodeling, epigenetic mechanisms, and hormonal pathways in diseases like Cushing's syndrome. Recent projects include understanding glucocorticoid resistance in tumors and the role of Pax7 in pituitary cell fate decisions.

Publications Trends:

Key publications address pituitary cell biology, transcription factor function, and epigenetic regulation. Recent studies investigate Cushing disease pathogenesis, pioneer factors, and glucocorticoid resistance mechanisms.

Awards:

• Member of the Royal Society of Canada (2001)

Grants & Students:

Leads CIHR-funded projects on pituitary development and disease. Has supervised over 20 PhD/MSc students and postdocs, with notable alumni including David Langlais (2012) and Jean-François Ouimette (2010).

Labs/Teams:

Directs the Molecular Genetics Research Unit at IRCM, collaborating on initiatives like the Quebec Reproduction Research Network and epigenomic mapping projects.