91社区

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) refer to a range of conditions characterized by differences in social interaction and patterns of behaviors and interests, which are found in 1 in 66 Canadians and 1-2% of children worldwide. Yet, little is known about the neural processes through which ASDs influence the developing brain.

We thus propose to create a transformative research platform named 91社区 Translational Platform in Autism Research (MTPAR) that harnesses cutting-edge phenotyping infrastructure for studying individuals with ASDs, and for deciphering the neurobiological mechanisms underlying such disorders via the study of genetically-engineered marmoset models.

We will听acquire the world's first integrated preclinical imaging system comprising a 9.4T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner and a compatible micro-positron emission tomography (PET) insert for simultaneous structural, functional and molecular data acquisition.听

This project will enable global leadership at 91社区 and within Quebec in this field, and will allow to train the next generation of scientists in mastering novel methodologies, while following improved equity, diversity, and inclusion practices.

MTPAR will equip The Neuro鈥檚 McConnell Brain Imaging Centre (BIC) with both a state-of-the-art preclinical 9.4T MRI with micro-PET insert that allows simultaneous multimodal data acquisition and operation as stand-alone systems. Synergizing with Canada鈥檚 first human whole-body 7T scanner and the ultra-high resolution PET camera that will soon be installed at the BIC, the pre-clinical MRI and PET systems will give MTPAR researchers the unique opportunity to perform true translational research in both marmoset models and patients with ASDs.

Project Context and Scope of Work:

The project is located on the Downtown campus of 91社区 at the Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital (hereafter referred to as 鈥淢NI鈥�).听

MNI Building - Webster Pavilion:

The scope of work involves the renovation and transformation of the 1.5T magnet room WB306 and its adjacent rooms WB305 and WB307 to accommodate a new 9.4T MRI.听This new imaging equipment is dedicated for animal subjects. The adjacent area is equipped with an existing 3T MRI, room WB308 and is used for human subjects.

This room, its control room WB308A and its technical room WB308B are to remain unchanged and in operation during most of the construction phase. The remaining area needs to be renovated to allow the removal of the existing 1.5T, the installation of the new 9.4T MRI, the layout will be reorganized to separate animal and human subjects and controlled access will be added.

The current HVAC system for the new 9.4T MRI does not comply with the minimum requirements for a Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) facility.

In response to the requirements, a new HVAC system equipped with cooling, heating and humidification services will be installed on the roof of the Webster Pavilion. New service shafts from the third basement to the roof are required and the location of these shafts could have significant implications for the existing rooms through which the services will pass.

Due to the prominent location of the building, views from the mountain and its proximity to Percival Molson Stadium, screening of the new rooftop HVAC system is required. Structural reinforcement of new floor openings, the roof, as well as a structure for the exterior mechanical system and equipment screen is required to compete the new HVAC system installation.

Electrical connections in the Webster Pavilion are limited. Emergency electrical power is needed for the new HVAC system and associated pumping systems to connect cooling and heating. There are ongoing projects to upgrade the MNI with emergency generators and electrical distribution.

MNI Building - North Wing Pavilion:

A new floor mounted 鈥淪tand alone micro-PET鈥� imaging instrument will be installed in room NWB255 replacing the current micro-PET.

Room NWB473: Four new benchtop equipment 鈥減owerful computer鈥�, 鈥渢ransducers鈥�, 鈥淧XI Express and accessories鈥� and 鈥淣europixels RFQ鈥� will be installed in this room.听

Proposed Plan, MNI Building Webster Wing

Proposed Plan, MNI Building Webster Wing

Project Details:

Please read the following information carefully :

Sustainable Procurement

The businesses with which the University will conclude a contract with in the course of this project will have to respect the 91社区 Supplier Code of Conduct.

Other requirements may apply, such as (for example): the quantification and limiting of GHG emissions over the contract or asset lifecycle, sustainable construction/product certifications, involvement of indigenous businesses or of social economy businesses, design for circularity, and so on.

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