The Canadian Light Source (CLS) is a source of brilliant light that scientists are using to view the micro-structure of materials. Located at the University of Saskatchewan, this new tool is being used to probe the structure of matter and analyze a host of physical, chemical, geological and biological processes, to name just a few applications.

The CLS is the second in the world - and the only one in North America - designed to include the study of human health issues. CIHR has invested $10.5 million in the project.

Scientists are using the CLS synchrotron to study causes of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.  The synchrotron can help them identify chemical and cellular changes that occur during neurodegeneration.

The synchrotron will enable the researchers to determine if unusual or toxic chemical forms of iron, zinc, manganese and copper are associated with neurodegeneration.

The experiments could determine which therapeutic drugs can reduce or prevent the accumulation of toxic metals in the brain.  This work will translate into new systems for drug efficacy testing and may lead to better early diagnosis by identifying which metals and which chemical forms of metal appear early in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

For more information on CLS many applications, visit their website.