Johne Liu

Dr. Johne Liu is a Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, with cross-appointments in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology. He is also a Senior Scientist in the Chronic Disease Program at The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI).

• Education: Undergraduate from South China University of Agriculture, MSc in Plant Science, and PhD in Biochemistry from McGill University. Postdoctoral training under Dr. Tony Pawson at Toronto’s Mount Sinai Hospital.

Research Interests: Dr. Liu’s work focuses on the molecular mechanisms of oocyte maturation, primarily using Xenopus laevis and mouse models. His research explores how G proteins, cell cycle regulators, and spindle assembly checkpoints influence asymmetric cell division and chromosomal stability in aging oocytes. Recent studies have investigated potential fertility treatments for older women, including putrescine supplementation to mitigate aneuploidy.

Publication Trends: His 2012-2014 studies highlight Xenopus meiosis, spindle assembly checkpoint deficiencies, and aging-related fertility decline, bridging developmental biology and reproductive medicine.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Michel Chrétien Researcher of the Year (2009)
  • Premier's Research Excellence Award (2000-2005)
  • Medical Research Council Scholarship (1995-2000)

Collaborations: Dr. Liu collaborates extensively with institutions like The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and has contributed to high-impact journals such as Cell Cycle and Aging Cell.