Ayesha Saleem

Dr. Ayesha Saleem is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management at the University of Manitoba and a Principal Investigator at the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba (CHRIM). Her research focuses on molecular and cellular physiology, particularly mitochondrial metabolism and extracellular vesicle biology, with an emphasis on leveraging exercise-derived therapies to combat aging and chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cancer. She holds grants from SSHRC, Research Manitoba, and CHRIM.

Education:

• PhD in Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology (York University, 2013)
• MSc in Kinesiology (York University, 2008)
• BSc (Honours) in Kinesiology & Health Science (York University, 2005)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship in Pediatrics (McMaster University, 2016)

Research Interests:

Dr. Saleem’s work explores the molecular mechanisms of cellular communication via extracellular vesicles, particularly how exercise-induced signaling factors influence metabolic health. Her lab investigates the therapeutic potential of exosomes in treating metabolic disorders and age-related diseases. Key areas include mitochondrial dysfunction, energy metabolism, and the cross-talk between muscle and other tissues.

Grants and Funding:

• SSHRC New Frontiers in Research Fund
• Research Manitoba
• University of Manitoba
• CHRIM

Labs and Teams:

The Extracellular Vesicles and Exercise Lab focuses on deciphering how EVs mediate cellular communication and their role in disease prevention. Current projects include exosome-based therapies for muscular dystrophy and metabolic diseases.