1. science
2. medicine
3. surgery

Dept of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care
In
RESEARCH PROJECTS
this
proposed
randomized,
double-blind,
multicenter trial, 1,000 elderly (> 60 years) patients
who are undergoing major non-cardiac surgery will
Cognitive Dysfunction after Anesthesia (CoDA)
be randomly allocated to receive additional BIS
Study
monitoring or routine anesthetic care. Postoperative
cognitive functioning will be assessed at the baseline,
 CHAN Matthew Tak Vai
GIN Tony


LEE Tatia M C*
POON Wai Sang (Surgery)

1 week, and 3 months after surgery using a battery of

established neurocognitive tests.
NG
(CU06400)
Ho Keung (Anatomical & Cellular Pathology)
 1 January 2007
PeriOperative
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Study.
ISchemic
How
Does
Evaluation
(POISE)
Metoprolol
Prevent
Postoperative Cardiac Complications?
It is widely believed among clinicians that anesthetic
effects such as unconsciousness, amnesia, and
areflexia are transient phenomena.
 CHAN Matthew Tak Vai
Therefore,
patients who receive a general anesthetic should
GIN Tony
recover completely as the drugs are eliminated from
DEVEREAUX Philip J*
the body.
However, there are now compelling data
LESILE, Kate*
CHOI Yuk Sang Gordon


 1 January 2007
to suggest that standard doses of routine anesthetics
 Australian and New Zealand College of
induce profound neurochemical changes that last for
days or months.


Anaesthetists, Research Grant
These “anesthetic imprints” in the
brain may contribute to postoperative cognitive
Patients with coronary artery disease suffer cardiac
impairment.
complications after surgery that may result in death.
Such “toxicity” is more apparent in
surgery.
Giving β blockers, such as metoprolol around the
Intuitively, a technique that decreases anesthetic
period of surgery may prevent these events. We are
exposure
currently participating a large clinical trial (the
elderly
patients
may
who
prevent
undergo
major
postoperative
cognitive
dysfunction.
PeriOperative ISchemia Evaluation study, POISE) to
Intraoperative monitoring of anesthetic depth, such as
re-evaluate the benefits of metoprolol to prevent
the bispectral electroencephalogram (BIS) index, may
major cardiac events in moderate to high risk patients
be useful in assisting anesthesiologists to optimize
undergoing surgery.
anesthetic
drug
It is however still unclear as to how metoprolol may
anesthesia
guided
administration.
by
depth
Specifically,
monitoring
modify the risk.
was
Previous studies in non-surgical
associated with lower drug consumption, fewer
settings suggested that dampening inflammation may
perioperative complications, and a faster and better
play be important in preventing acute coronary
quality
syndrome or heart attack.
of
recovery.
We
hypothesize
that
BIS-guided drug delivery avoids excessively deep
metoprolol
anesthesia, and will potentially reduce the incidence
inflammatory
of cognitive dysfunction after anesthesia.
complications after surgery.
Faculty of Medicine
164
We hypothesize that
administration,
response,
will
by
changing
decrease
the
cardiac
Dept of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care
We propose to undertake a substudy within the POISE
We have recently developed a novel technique to
trial to define the protective mechanism of metoprolol.
document the dispersion of expired air from a
In this study, 110 moderate to high risk patients will
high-fidelity human patient simulator, using smoke
receive either metoprolol or placebo before and then
tracers illuminated by strong laser light.
for 30 days after surgery. Serial blood samples will
proposed study, we will apply the laser visualization
be
method to characterize aerosol dispersion throughout
taken
to
determine
the blood
levels of
In this
inflammatory markers after surgery.
a volume over time, during common respiratory
The study will characterize the mechanism of
therapies.
perioperative cardiac complications.
The data will
influenza (H5N1) infection since 2004 in Asia and
enhance our understanding of the benefits of
recently in the Middle East, there is an urgent need to
metoprolol and provide new insights into the
study the safety of various respiratory therapies.
development of potential interventions for the
This study will provide clinicians with data to develop
prevention of cardiac events after surgery.
strategies for preventing spread of infection.
(MD06734)
will greatly enhance potential therapeutic options
Given the re-emergence of avian
This
during treatment of chest infection. The expected
During
results will allow engineers and architects to design a
Common Respiratory Therapy : A Simulator
work environment that is safe for healthcare workers.
Model to Assess the Risk of Nosocomial Infection
(MD06974)
 CHAN Matthew Tak Vai  GIN Tony  Stephen
Vascular events In noncardiac Surgery patIents
Visualizing
HALL*
Expired

Air
Dispersion
HUI Shu Cheong David (Medicine &
cOhort evaluatioN Study (The VISION study)
Therapeutics)
 CHAN Matthew Tak Vai
 1 January 2007

GIN Tony

CHOI
Yuk Sang Gordon
 Australian and New Zealand College of
 1 April 2007
Anaesthetists, Research Grant
 Public Policy Research Funding Scheme
Patients with chest infections often require supportive
therapies such as supplemental oxygen, nebulised
Recent advances in medicine have allowed patients to
medications, chest physiotherapy and mechanical
undergo complex noncardiac surgery.
ventilation.
these patients, however have significant coronary
These procedures may however,
disease
and
may
suffer
Many of
generate large amount of potentially infected aerosols
artery
from
major
in patient’s exhaled air that can be inhaled by
perioperative cardiac events such as vascular death,
healthcare workers, visitors and other patients to
myocardial infarction, nonfatal cardiac arrest, and
produce cross infection. This problem is highlighted
stroke. In this regard, it should be considered as a
with the recent SARS outbreak in 2003.
In order to
greater loss to individuals who may have gone
prevent cross infection, it is important to visualize
through otherwise successful and curative surgery.
and understand how the infected aerosols may spread
There are now compelling data to suggest that
during respiratory therapies.
perioperative cardiac events are in the rising trend.
Unfortunately, much of the existing data are limited in
165
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care
their methodology and generalizability. Therefore, it
induce profound neurochemical changes that last for
is still uncertainty about the current incidence of major
days or months. These “anesthetic imprints” in the
cardiac events and the optimal risk model to predict
brain may adversely affect mental health outcome
these events in patients undergoing noncardiac
after surgery. Intuitively, a technique that decreases
surgery. We propose to conduct a large prospective
anesthetic exposure may prevent postoperative mental
multicentre
patients
disturbance. We have previously demonstrated that
undergoing noncardiac surgery to determine the
the intraoperative monitoring of anesthetic depth,
incidence of major vascular events, the optimal
such as the bispectral electroencephalogram (BIS)
clinical model to predict major perioperative vascular
index, is useful in assisting anesthesiologists to
events, and whether postoperative measurements of
optimize anesthetic drug administration.
plasma
hypothesize that BIS-guided drug delivery avoids
cohort
troponin
myocardial
study
20,000
concentrations
infarctions
unrecognized.
in
that
are
can
identify
likely
to
We
go
excessively deep anesthesia, and will potentially
The VISION study allows us to
reduce the incidence of postoperative delirium and
address the fundamental questions with immense
cognitive decline.
public health implications. Given that hundreds of
Design: Randomized control trial in which elderly
thousands of patients in Hong Kong (and millions
patients undergoing major colorectal surgery will be
worldwide) undergo noncardiac surgery each year,
assigned to receive general anesthesia with additional
the
BIS monitoring or routine anesthetic care.
expected
results
will
inform
clinicians,
administrators, and the government about resource
Setting: Tertiary and district hospitals (Prince of
allocation. We will also derive an accurate model to
Wales Hospital, North District Hospital) in the New
estimate the risk of perioperative cardiac event that
Territories East cluster.
will facilitate informed decision-making between
Participants: Elderly (≥ 65 years) patients undergoing
clinicians and patients regarding the appropriateness
major elective colorectal (> 2 hours) surgery.
of noncardiac surgery.
Main Outcome Measures: The primary endpoint is
(MD06465)
postoperative mental disturbance (including either
delirium or cognitive decline or both) using confusion
Delirium and Cognitive Decline after Surgery : A
assessment method, cognitive failure questionnaires
Randomized
and
Controlled
Trial
of
Anesthetic
objective
neuropsychological
test
battery,
Management to Improve Postoperative Mental
respectively. Other outcome measures include speed
Health Outcome
and quality of recovery from general anesthesia,
incidence of perioperative morbidities, and health
 CHAN Matthew Tak Vai  GIN Tony
related quality of life measures.
 2 May 2007
(MD06426)
 Health and Health Services Research Fund
Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction after Nitrous
Objectives: Postoperative delirium and cognitive
Oxide Administration
decline are adverse events that occur frequently in
elderly patients.
 CHAN Matthew Tak Vai  GIN Tony
There are now compelling data to
suggest that standard doses of routine anesthetics
Faculty of Medicine
166
Dept of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care
 30 June 2007
The ENIGMA trial was a large, double-blind
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
randomized controlled trial (n = 2,050) comparing
nitrous
Grants)
oxide-free
anesthesia
with
nitrous
oxide-containing anesthesia. The results of this trial
Myocardial infarction, heart failure, cardiac arrest
were presented in international meetings and were
(“cardiac events”) and death are amongst the most
accepted for publication in Anesthesiology, 2007. It
serious complications after surgery.
has received lots of international attention.
We have
Patients
recently completed a large multicenter clinical trial,
receiving nitrous oxide had significantly higher rates
the “ENIGMA Trial”. The study identified nitrous
of major complications including severe vomiting,
oxide (N2O) anesthesia as a probable contributor to a
fever, wound infection, pneumonia and atelectasis.
number of serious adverse outcomes, including
There were also trends towards increased rates of
postoperative cardiac events and mortality.
There is
myocardial infarction and death in the nitrous oxide
substantial biologic rationale to suggest that N2O
group. A plausible pathophysiologic rationale exists
administration produces an acute state of folate
for increased long-term morbidity and mortality in
deficiency
These
patients receiving significant doses of nitrous oxide
biochemical changes impair endothelial dysfunction
during anesthesia, owing to the inhibition of
and may predispose patients to adverse cardiac events.
methionine synthase, folate metabolism and DNA
In this proposed study, we aim to evaluate the
synthesis. In addition, the administration of nitrous
changes of endothelial function using brachial artery
oxide is associated with hyperhomocysteinemia, an
flow-mediated
independent risk factor for coronary artery disease
and
hyperhomocysteinemia.
dilatation
in
patients receiving
anesthesia with or without N2O.
We wish to
and stroke.
These problems may arise up to one
correlate these changes with plasma concentrations of
year after the operation. We therefore hypothesized
folate, vitamin B12 and homocysteine.
that nitrous oxide administration is associated with
The
proposed study will provide mechanistic information
long term morbidity and mortality.
on the possible cardiac complication after N2O
follow up all the patients in the ENIGMA Trial to find
administration. The expected results of this study
out about their health after surgery.
will provide the essential scientific basis for a future
(MD06357)
We plan to
large randomized study to study the safety of N2O in
contemporary anesthesia.
The Effect of Acidosis on Coagulation and Platelet
(MD06654)
Functions before and after Neutralization, and in
the
ENIGMA Trial Long-term Follow-up Study
Absence
or
Presence
of
Recombinant
Activated Factor VII (Novoseven, NovoNordisk,
Denmark)
 GIN Tony  CHAN Matthew Tak Vai
 HO Ming Hei Anthony  Dai, Yue*  LEE Anna
 30 June 2007

 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
CRITCHLEY Lester Augustus Hall

JOYNT
Gavin Matthew  KARMAKAR Manoj Kumar
Grants)
 1 March 2007
167
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
rapid shift from inpatient to same day admission
Grants)
surgery and day only surgery admissions, thereby
increasing
Despite an impressive record of arresting refractory
healthcare costs.
bleeding in numerous clinical situations, recombinant
unresponsiveness.
may
cause
cost-effective from the hospital’s perspective and
Clinically, in severe acidosis,
how much patients are willing to pay for a
preanaesthetic consultation at the clinic or on the
However, neutralization of acidosis with
ward.
NaHCO3 alone in vitro does not reverse acidosis
induced haemostatic deficiencies.
A prospective study of 560 patients
undergoing elective surgery receiving OPC or
Whether the
traditional preoperative visit intervention (noOPC)
addition of rFVIIa improves haemostatic function in
will be conducted.
NaHCO3 treated acidic blood remains unexplored.
The main outcomes measures
are costs to the Hospital Authority (non-profit
We intend to quantify coagulation and platelet
making and the largest public health organization in
function parameters using thrombelastography and
Hong Kong), patient’s willingness to pay for a
platelet function analyzer of donated blood from
preanaesthetic consultation, Quality of Recovery
healthy volunteers not on any food or medications
known to influence haemostasis.
However, the development of
this study will be to determine if an OPC is
rFVIIa
NaHCO3 is sometimes given to bring the pH closer to
normal.
reducing
Hong Kong has been carried out. The objectives of
Acidosis, in itself a cause of impaired coagulation
functions,
and
No formal cost-effectiveness analysis of an OPC in
ineffective in some patients with refractory bleeding.
platelet
efficiency
OPCs in Hong Kong public hospitals has been slow.
activated factor VII (rFVIIa) has been reported to be
and
hospital
scores, health-related quality of life and patient
The blood samples
satisfaction with preoperative assessment.
will be studied in vitro before acidification with lactic
The
results of the study will be used to determine whether
acid, after acidification, and after neutralization with
it will be feasible to establish and expand OPC in
NaHCO3. In the latter two situations, the effect of
public hospitals.
adding rFVIIa will also be studied.
(MD06440)
(MD06448)
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
Cost-effectiveness of an Outpatient Preanaesthetic
for more details of the following ongoing research
Clinic
at the department:
 LEE Anna

GIN Tony

CHUI Po Tong

HO
Edition
Ming Hei Anthony
 1 April 2007
2002-03 Perioperative Ischemic Evaluation Study
 Public Policy Research Funding Scheme
Overseas,
anaesthesiologist-led
(MD02634)
 CHAN Matthew Tak Vai
preoperative
Kwok Gabriel*
medicine clinics prepare most elective surgical
patients for anaesthesia and surgery. Benefits of an
outpatient preanaesthetic clinic (OPC) include a
Faculty of Medicine
Title/Investigators
168

YIP Wai
Dept of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care
2004-05 Improving Perioperative Outcome in the
2005-06 A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo
Elderly Surgical Patients. An Evaluation
Controlled, Multicenter Phase IIb Study
of Nitrous Oxide in the Gas Mixture for
to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of
Anesthesia (MD04736)
Multiple Alvimopan Dosage Regimens
 CHAN Matthew Tak Vai

for the Treatment of Opioid-Induced
GIN
Bowel
Tony
Dysfunctin
in
Cancer
Pain
Subjects (SB-767905/008) (MD05894)
2005-06 PeriOperative
Ischemic
 GIN Tony
Evaluation
(POISE) Study - How Does Metoprolol
Prevent
Postoperative
Cardiac
2005-06 A Phase III, Multicenter, Randomized,
 CHAN Matthew Tak Vai
LAM
Wai
CHAN Matthew Tak
Vai  RHEE Seongha*
Complications (MD05329)
Yuk Sang Gordon



Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of 50
Christopher
mg Oral Dosing with the Neurokinin-1
GIN Tony

Kei
Double-Blind, Parallel Group Study to
CHOI
Receptor Antagonist GW679769 for the
(Chemical Pathology)
Prevention of Postoperative Nausea and
2005-06 A
Randomized,
Vomiting in Female Subjects at High
Double-Blind,
Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter Phase 3
Risk
Study to Evaluate the Long-Term Safety
(MD05357)
of Alvimopan 0.5 mg Twice Daily for 12
 GIN Tony
months
for
the
Treatment
of
for
Emesis

(NKT102553)
CHAN Matthew Tak
Vai
Opioid-Induced Bowel Dysfunction in
Adults
taking
Persistent
Opioid
Therapy
Non-Cancer
for
2005-06 A Phase III Multicenter, Randomized,
Pain.
Double-Blind, Parallel Group Study to
(SB-767905/014) (MD05467)
Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of the
 GIN Tony
Intravenous

CHAN Matthew Tak
Neurokinin-1
Vai  RHEE Seongha*
GW679769
Formulation
Receptor
for
of
the
Antagonist
Prevention
of
Placebo-Controlled,
Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in
Multicenter Phase IIb Extension Study to
Female Subjects at High Risk for Emesis
Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of
(NKT102552) (MD05569)
Multiple Alvimopan Dosage Regimens
 GIN Tony
2005-06 A
Double-Blind,
for the Treatment of Opioid-Induced

CHAN Matthew Tak
Vai
Bowel Dysfunction in Cancer Pain
Subjects (ABD101684) (MD05661)
 GIN Tony

2005-06 B-Aware Trial Long-Term Follow-Up
Study (MD05969)
CHAN Matthew Tak
 GIN Tony
Vai  RHEE Seongha*

CHAN Matthew Tak
Vai
169
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care
 LEE Anna
2005-06 Linezolid in the Treatment of Subjects

GIN Tony
with Nosocomial Pneumonia Proven to
Simon Kin Cheong
be
Ping
Due
to
Methicillin-Resistant


CHAN
CHEN Phoon
Staphylococcus Aureus (MD05785)
 GOMERSALL Charles David
2003-04 The Effect of Vasopressor Choice on

Fetal Acid-Base Status During Spinal
JOYNT Gavin Matthew
Anaesthesia for Emergency Caesarean
Section (CU03406)
2005-06 Continuous Thoracic Paravertebral Block:
 NGAN KEE Warwick Dean
Effects on Acute and Chronic Pain and
Quality of Life after Breast Cancer
KHAW Kim Sun
Surgery (CU05406)
(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
 KARMAKAR Manoj Kumar
Ming Hei Anthony




LAU Tze Kin
HO
GIN Tony

CHAN Wing Cheong (Surgery)
2004-05 Vasopressor
Drugs
Anaesthesia
for
in
Regional
Obstetrics:
Quantification of Transplacental Transfer
and Determination of Metabolic Effects
1998-99 Ropivacaine as an Intrathecal Agent: Part
I – A Dose Response Study (MD98153)
on the Fetus (CU04467)
 KHAW Kim Sun
 NGAN KEE Warwick Dean
Warwick
Dean


NGAN KEE

KHAW Kim Sun
CRITCHLEY
Lester Augustus Hall
2005-06 Maintenance of Maternal Arterial Blood
2003-04 External Cephalic Version for Breech
Pressure during Spinal Anaesthesia for
Presentation : A Randomised Controlled
Caesarean Section: Development of a
Trial
Novel Computer-Controlled Closed-loop
of
Anaesthetic
Interventions
Feedback Vasopressor Infusion Control
(CU03405)
 KHAW Kim Sun

System (CU05408)
LAU Tze Kin

 NGAN KEE Warwick Dean
LEUNG Tak Yeung (Obstetrics &
KHAW Kim Sun  TAM Yuk Ho
(Obstetrics
&
Gynaecology)
Gynaecology)

NGAN
KEE
Warwick Dean
2005-06 Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of an Acute
Pain Service (MD05312)
Faculty of Medicine
170

Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
potential to serve as a prognostic marker as well as a
RESEARCH PROJECTS
drug target for anti-cancer therapeutic.
(MD06912)
To Investigate the Role of OREBP/NFAT5 in
Elucidation of Mechanisms of ERβ-mediated Cell
Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Growth Inhibition by Diarylpropionitrile in
Prostate Cancer Cells
 KO Chi Bun
 20 June 2007
 LAU Kin Mang
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct

NG Heung Ling Margaret
NG Chi Fai (Surgery)
Grants)


MAC-MOUNE LAI
Fernand  HO Shuk Mei*
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most
 1 April 2007
common cancer worldwide.
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
In Hong Kong, where
there is a high prevalence of hepatitis B injection,
Grants)
HCC is the third most common cancer. It is also the
major cause of cancer death, ranked the second and
Prostate cancer (PCa) incidence has been rapidly
forth amongst males and females, respectively.
rising in last two decades and now it is the 4th
Nonetheless, the molecular events linked to the
common male cancer in Hong Kong. Discovery of
development and progression of HCC remains
estrogen receptor-beta (ERβ) opened new therapeutic
unknown.
We have been studying the role of a
avenues to manage the disease. Our previous studies
transcription factor, namely the Osmotic Response
demonstrated the importance of ERβ in normal
Element-Binding Protein (OREBP), also known as
prostate and lesions and the ERβ-dependent inhibition
NFAT5, in the regulation of osmotic balance in
of PCa cell growth by antiestrogen. Following these
mammalian cells.
Recently we have demonstrated a
findings, phytoestrogens and selective estrogen
crucial role for OREBP in the regulation of normal
receptor modulators (SERMs) targeting ERβ were
cell growth. Furthermore, we have shown that this
recently tested in clinical trials, preliminarily with
transcription factor is upregulated in the human HCC,
promising results. With the advancements of SERM
suggesting that it might also have a role in the
development, a highly selective ERβ agonist,
pathogenesis of cancer.
diarylpropionitrile
Consistent with our
(DPN),
was
developed
and
hypothesis, evidence from cell culture studies has
exhibited inhibitory effects on PCa cell growth. In
revealed that gene silencing of OREBP remarkably
this regard, studying DPN in PCa cells could reveal
inhibits cell proliferation. We therefore propose: 1)
the ERβ regulated genes and the ERβ functional
to establish a cell culture model to investigate the
involvements in control of PCa but this information
molecular basis of OREBP-dependent cell growth; 2)
remains lacking.
to identify the gene targets of OREBP; and 3) to
determine whether cell cycle arrest or/and induction
investigate the mechanism responsible for OREBP
of apoptosis is/are involved in the DPN-induced cell
overexpression in HCC.
growth
Our study aims to
inhibition;
In the proposal, we will 1)
2)
elucidate
the
molecular
mechanisms by identification of DPN regulated genes
elucidate the role of OREBP in HCC and explore its
using DNA microarray; and 3) determine the
171
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
functional involvements of these DPN regulated
function. Firstly, we will investigate the expression
genes in control of PCa cell growth by gene
of ID2 in the precancerous lesions and access the
knock-down approach.
The outcomes of this
prognostic value of ID2 overexpression in NPC.
proposal could further enhance our understanding of
Secondly, we will elucidate the effects of ID2
ERβ functions in PCa and facilitate the development
overexpression
of novel ERβ-targeting drugs in PCa treatments.
chromosomal stability, and tumorigeneic potential of
(MD06611)
NPC.
on
differentiation,
proliferation,
By gene expression microarray analysis, the
ID2 down-stream targets and associated pathway(s)
Investigation
of
the
Role
of
ID2
will
in
be
identified
on
nasopharyngeal cells.
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC) Tumorigenesis
the
ID2
transfected
The findings of these studies
will contribute to a much better understanding of die
molecular pathogenesis of NPC.
 LO Kwok Wai  TO Ka Fai  LAU Kin Mang 
(CU06406)
CHUNG Tin Yun Grace  TSAO Sai Wah*
 1 October 2006
Characterization
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
of
Phosphoproteome
in
EBV-positive Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) poses a serious
health problem in Hong Kong.
 LO Kwok Wai
Through gene
expression profiling of normal and malignant
CHUNG Tin Yun Grace

POON Chuen Wai (Medicine & Therapeutics)
nasopharyngeal epithelial cells, we have found that
 1 April 2007
ID2 (Inhibitor of DNA binding 2), an ID family
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
member, was upregulated in NPC cell lines and
xenografts.

Grants)
The overexpression of ID2 was further
confirmed in majority of primary tumors by
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is one the common
immunohistochemical staining.
Strikingly, in vitro
cancers in Hong Kong. It ranked first in terms of
studies have showed that expression of ID2 is
cancer incidence in the young population (20-44
specifically elevated in nasopharyngeal epithelia with
years) and poses a special health concern to our
EBV infection and RASSF1A inactivation.
community.
We
Aside from genetic alterations, EBV
have previously shown that EBV latent infection and
latent infection is important in the development of
loss of RASSFIA locus are early events during NPC
this endemic cancer.
development.
Thus, the findings demonstrated a
tumors harbors EBV and expresses a number of latent
possible link between ID2 overexpression and
genes. Our recent study first demonstrated that in
initiation of this cancer.
Since ID proteins are
vitro EBV infection in nasopharyngeal epithelial cells
important parts of signaling pathways involved in
resulted in the activation multiple signal cascades
development, cell growth and tumorigenesis, we
which are critical for transformation.
hypothesize that ID2 play a critical role in NPC
proposal, we plan to undertake comprehensive
tumorigenesis. In this proposal, we aim to elucidate
investigations on the global protein expression profile
the roles of ID2 in the genesis of NPC, and the
and phosphoproteome in EBV-positive NPC cells.
molecular mechanisms responsible for its oncogenic
By using our EBV-infected NPC cells and 2-D gel
Faculty of Medicine
172
Virtually almost all NPC
In this
Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
electrophoresis, we will identify the proteins that are
We have conducted mutational analysis of EGFR
specific phosphorylated by EBV latent infection and
gene from exon 18 to exon 21 in a series of 71
elucidate their associated pathways.
surgically
identify
proteins
that
are
We aim to
important
in
development of this EBV-associated cancer.
the
resected
chemotherapy
or
NSCLCs
gefitinib
with
no
prior
treatment.
Our
These
preliminary results demonstrated a high and wide
proposed studies will improve our understanding on
spectrum of EGFR mutation rate (34.2%, 25/71) in
the molecular basis for development of NPC,
Hong Kong. However, the functional significances
elucidate the role EBV plays in the cancer, and
of those novel mutations have not been properly
discover new therapeutic targets, findings of which
evaluated.
will help us to better control this common malignant
mutations and the sensitivity of these novel mutants
disease in our population.
to gefitinib might not be identical.
(MD06852)
aim to examine the functional properties of these
The biochemical properties of these
In this study, we
novel EGFR mutants and also its responsiveness to
Functional Characterization of Epidermal Growth
gefitinib in culture cells.
Factor
molecular basis of responsiveness to gefitinib has
Receptor
(EGFR)
Novel
Mutations
Understanding the
immediate clinical implications, which permit the
Detected from Lung Cancer in Hong Kong
customization of treatment using EGFR tyrosine
 LUI Chi Wai

TO Ka Fai

kinase
TONG Hung Man
inhibitors
as
front-line
treatment
in
neoadjuvant, adjuvant, or metastatic settings.
Joanna
(MD07392)
 15 June 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Study of Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) in
Grants)
Hong
In Asia, lung cancer ranks first in the overall
Kong
Chinese
Children
with
Acute
Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
incidence and represent the major cause of cancer
death in our locality.
 NG Heung Ling Margaret
The prognosis remains poor
especially in advanced stage diseases.
HRUSAK Ondrej*
Recent
advancement in therapy targeting EGFR-tyrosine

kinase (EGFR-TK) is advocated as promising
Family Medicine)
therapeutic strategy for advanced non-small cell lung
cancer (NSCLC).


LAU Kin Mang

LI Chi Kong (Paediatrics)
ZEE Chung Ying Benny (Community and
 1 January 2007
Among EGFR-targeting agents,
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
gefitinib is an orally active small molecule drag with
evidence of anti-tumor activity in NSCLC.
The
It has been demonstrated that early leukemic cell
clinical responsiveness to gefitinib is closely
clearance with induction therapy is the best indicator
associated with EGFR mutations.
In particular,
of the efficacy of cytostatic treatment and highly
adenocarcinoma in Asia harbor a much higher
sensitive and specific detection and quantification of
incidence of EGFR mutations and which may explain
these minimal residual leukemic cells during the first
why EGFR-tyrosine kinase targeting therapy is more
month of therapy has critical bearing in risk
effective in Asia as compare to western populations.
stratification
173
and
post-induction
therapies.
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
Currently, the two problems in minimal residual
4q Loss is Potentially an Important Genetic Event
disease (MRD) investigation that need to be tackled
in MM Tumorigenesis : Identification of a Tumor
are the identification and selection of the most
Suppressor
cost-effective
Methylation at 4q13.3, Platelet Factor 4
platform
of
assessment
and
an
Gene
Regulated
by
Promoter
non-invasive approach that could afford easier and
more frequent assessments on the children. For the
 NG Heung Ling Margaret
latter, the recent finding of relative increase in

leukemia-specific DNA in peripheral blood plasma
Keung
with detectable rearranged Ig heavy chain DNA in
LAU Kin Mang


CHENG Suk Hang
LO Kwok Wai

NG Ho
 30 June 2007
acute leukemia suggests that molecular studies in this
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
cell-free blood samples may be a promising means of
Grants)
non-invasive approach for children with BCP-ALL.
For the former, with the initial supports by Children
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a clonal plasma cell
Cancer’s Foundation, we conducted a multicentre
malignancy with no effective treatment for cure.
MRD study by 3-color flow cytometry and real-time
The critical genetic triggers associated with MM
quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RQ-PCR)
transformation and disease progression remains
analysis
unidentified. In this proposal, we will elucidate the
of
leukemia-clonogenic
rearranged
immunoglobulin (Ig) and T-cell receptor (TCR)
chromosomal
genes on childhood ALL as participation in the
pathogenesis and search for tumor suppressor gene
Intercontinental-Berlin-Frankfurt-Münster
(TSG) loci in MM.
(I-BFM)
imbalances
in
the
multistep
We aim to comprehensively
study. The current proposal builds on the previous
investigate the genome of MM and its precursor
study with an extension to 4-color approach using
condition (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined
simple but cost-effective panels of antibodies (CD10,
significance,
CD19, CD20, CD34, CD45, CD58, CD66c and
hybridization (CGH) and allelotyping on chromosome
sytol6)
4q and 13q.
to
enhance
coverage,
specificity for MRD investigation.
assessment
by
RQ-PCR
sensitivity
and
Simultaneous
analysis
MGUS)
by
comparative
genomic
The searches focusing on these two
chromosomal regions are based on our preliminary
of
findings of high incidence of 4q and 13 q losses in 3
leukemia-clonogenic rearranged Ig and TCR genes
MGUS and 9 MM bone marrow samples.
on bone marrow and both cellular and plasma
further investigate the involvements of these two
fractions of peripheral blood will also be performed.
genetic alterations in MM, we will perform
Findings from the study will lead to the development
fluoresecent in situ hybridization analysis on bone
of the best MRD detection strategy in Chinese
marrow smear samples to determine the population
children with BCP-ALL.
sizes with 4q/13q loss in the clonal plasma cells of
The ultimate goal is to
To
incorporate clinically relevant MRD data into relapse
the patients.
risk stratification on the patients as planned in the
will define the minimal deletion regions.
I-BFM study group for the best risk adapted personal
expression of the candidate genes located at the
therapy.
regions will be profiled and compared between MM
(CU06408)
and normal bone marrow cells to identify the
By high resolution allelotyping, we
The
candidate TSG. The genes with absence/reduction
Faculty of Medicine
174
Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
of the expression in MM cells will be further studied
Moreover, loss of REOTl transcript was also found in
to determine whether DNA methylation is involved
gastric and ovarian carcinoma cell lines, suggesting
in the transcriptional silencing. The outcomes of the
that REOTl inactivation may be involved in human
proposal could generate novel targets for the
cancers other than OTs. Importantly, a significant
development of molecular markers in diagnosis and
association was observed between down-regulated
prognosis, pharmaceutical intervention, gene therapy
REOTl expression and the chromosome lp deletion
or adjunct therapy.
status in OTs (P<0.0001).
(MD06766)
REOTl is a major tumor suppressor gene on
We hypothesize that
chromosome lp36.3. The objectives of this proposal
Molecular and Functional Characterization of a
are to investigate the biological functions of REOTl
Novel Candidate Tumor Suppressor Gene REOT1
in relation to oncogenesis and to evaluate its clinical
on
significance in oligodendrogliomas.
Chromosome
1p36.3
and
Its
Clinical
It is anticipated
that results from this study will shed light on the
Significance in Oligodendroglial Tumors
pathogenesis of human cancers carrying lp deletion
 NG Ho Keung

PANG Chung Sean Jesse
POON Wai Sang (Surgery)

and may potentially generate novel targets for

prognosis and treatment.
CHUI Yiu Loon
(CU06407)
(Clinical Immunology Unit)
 1 September 2006
Identification of Gene Targets Modulated by
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Dysregulated MicroRNAs in Medulloblastoma
Oligodendroglial tumors (OTs) are primary brain
tumors of adults.
tumors
is
the
 NG Ho Keung  PANG Chung Sean Jesse
A genetic hallmark of these
combined
allelic
deletion
of
 15 June 2007
chromosomes lp and 19q, suggesting that these
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
chromosome arms carry critical tumor suppressor
genes involved in OT formation.
Grants)
No tumor
suppressor genes have yet been isolated from these
Medulloblastoma is a common malignant brain tumor
chromosomes.
in children.
Recently, loss of chromosome lp has
Despite advances in multimodality
been demonstrated to be a significant predictor of
therapy, 30-50% of medulloblastoma patients do not
chemosensitivity and better patient survival in OTs.
survive and post-treatment cognitive deficits are
The identity of gene(s) mediating these effects is also
common in long-term survivors.
undefined. We recently isolated from chromosome
therapies
lp36.32 a novel gene named REOTl, whose
pathogenesis
expression is either lost or significantly reduced in
MicroRNAs are a recently discovered class of
~60% of OTs. Aberrant promoter hypermethylation
non-coding
and loss of REOTl allele are demonstrated to be the
expression of hundreds of genes with functions in
major mechanisms contributing to such aberrant
diverse biological processes.
expression pattern.
These results suggest that
indicates that microRNAs also play an important role
REOTl may play a role in the development of OTs.
in oncogenesis. We evaluated the involvement of 3
175
targeting
of
the
underlying
medulloblastoma
RNAs
Thus novel
which
are
negatively
molecular
needed.
regulate
Mounting evidence
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
microRNAs, which are mapped to the frequently
that multiple EBV encoded miRNAs are consistently
deleted
in
expressed in NPC samples. However, only scanty
Our results demonstrated that
data is available for EBV miRNA. The currently
expressions of microRNAs mir-124a (8p23.1) and
identified EBV miRNA are all cloned from a
mir-383 (8p22) were either lost or reduced in 40-60%
Burkitt’s lymphoma cell line BL41/95 latently
of medulloblastoma, whereas that of mir-320 (8p21.3)
infected with EBV strain B95-8.
was
newly identified EBV miRNAs are present in both
regions
on
medulloblastoma.
not
altered.
expression
of
chromosome
More
importantly,
mir-124a
or
8p,
forced
mir-383
Although those
in
NPC and lymphoma cells, distinct expression
medulloblastoma cells deficient of such miRNAs
patterns were found in NPC according to our
resulted in suppression of cell proliferation and
preliminary study. The EBV miRNA profile might
induction of cell death. Taken together, our results
be different in different disease entities, cellular
strongly suggest that mir-124a and mir-383 may act
backgrounds, EBV strains and latency status. The
as tumor suppressors in medulloblastoma oncogenesis.
NPC cell line C666-1 carries a relatively wild-type
The aim of this study was to identify the gene targets
EBV strain.
modulated by the dysregulated microRNAs during
miRNA expression profile in NPC cells and novel
medulloblastoma tumorigenesis.
EBV miRNAs may be detected.
It is anticipated
that results from this study will provide insights into
Objectives:
the underlying genetic pathways associated with
1.
mir-124a and mir-383 in medulloblastoma and
We aimed to investigate the EBV
To construct miRNA libraries from EBV
positive NPC cell line and xenografts.
potentially generate novel therapeutic targets for
2.
improved outcome of this malignant pediatric
To document the EBV miRNA profile in NPC in
order to identify novel EBV miRNAs.
disease.
3.
(MD06999)
To confirm the expression of detected EBV
miRNA in NPC cell lines, xenografts and
primary tumor samples.
Identification of Epstein-Barr Virus miRNA in
Study designs: miRNA libraries from EBV positive
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Cells
NPC cell line C666-1 and xenografts X-2117 will be
constructed.
The small RNA clones will be
screened and sequenced to document the EBV
 TO Ka Fai  LO Kwok Wai  TONG Hung Man
miRNA profiles and to detect novel EBV miRNAs.
Joanna
And the existence of the novel EBV miRNA will be
 2 January 2007
confirmed by Northern blotting in NPC tumor
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
samples.
Diseases
Main outcome measure: Such information may no
Recent advances in cancer biology have strong
doubt
implications for the alterations of microRNAs
tumorigenesis and provide new therapeutic prospects
(miRNAs) as one of the most important events in
for future developments.
human tumorigenesis.
(MD06848)
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma
(NPC) is well-known to be associated with
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and we have demonstrated
Faculty of Medicine
176
enhance
our
understanding
on
NPC
Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
Research Centre for Gastric Cancer Epigenetics :
treatment. However, such data in gastric cancer is
Molecular Basis and Clinical Applications
limited.
In
this
proposal,
we
focused
on
comprehensive analysis of these two epigenetic
 TO Ka Fai

LO Kwok Wai
Keung (Medicine & Therapeutics)


Wai (Medicine & Therapeutics)

By which we could identify
target cancer associated genes regulated by these
CHAN Ka
Leung Francis (Medicine & Therapeutics)
Enders Kwok-wai (Surgery)
mechanisms in GC.
LEUNG Wai

epigenetic mechanisms.
NG
These not only enhance
POON Chuen
our understanding of gastric cancer carcinogenesis,
CHIU Wai
but may also lead to discovery of new cancer

biomarkers. In vivo and in-vitro anticancer effect of
Yan Philip (Surgery)  CHOW K C Billy*
various HDAC inhibitors will be assessed.
 1 April 2007
The
results will enhance our understanding of this new
 Supplementary Funding for RGC Central
class of anti-cancer agents and provide laboratory
Allocation
evidence and information for future clinical trials
Gastric carcinoma (GC) is the second most common
against gastric cancer.
and often fatal malignant cancer worldwide and it is
(MD06765)
particular prevalent in China including Hong Kong.
Gastric cancer accounts for 3% to 10% of all cancer
Role of Small Non-Coding miR-221 and miR-222
related deaths.
in the Oncogenesis of Human Hepatocellular
More than 700,000 people died of
gastric cancer per year and more than 40% occur in
China.
Carcinoma
Gastric cancers are often detected at an
The
 WONG Nathalie  POON Chuen Wai (Medicine
mortality rates have remained relatively unchanged
& Therapeutics)  TO Ka Fai  LAI Bo San Paul
over the past 30 years and overall 5-years survival
(Surgery)
rate is only 10-20%. Thus, cancer biomarkers for
 1 January 2007
advanced stage, the prognosis remains poor.
early cancer detection, prediction of prognosis and
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
effective therapeutic approach are urgently needed.
Epigenetic mechanisms are important in regulation of
Hepatocellular
gene
epigenetic
malignant tumor that is prevalent in Southeast China
regulatory mechanisms, namely gene promoter
including Hong Kong, where it is associated with a
methylation and histone modifications are implicated
high
in cancer development. Other and our investigative
understanding of genetic changes leading to the
team have shown that epigenetic alterations are
development and progression of HCC hence holds
common
gastric
much value from a biological and clinical standpoint.
Identification of abnormal gene
Recent emergence of microRNA (miRNA) as an
expression.
and
carcinogenesis.
Two
important
important
events
in
cancer
carcinoma
mortality
in
and
the
is
a
morbidity.
control
of
highly
The
methylation may also serve as potential cancer
important
markers for gastric cancer detection and predict
oncogenesis has led to our speculation of differential
prognosis.
miRNA expressions in HCC.
Moreover, by using histone deacetylase
element
(HCC)
cancer
We therefore
(HDAC) inhibitors modifying the histone acetylation
performed array-based miRNA expression analysis
status is emerged as an effect and safe anti-cancer
and found marked elevations of miR-221 and
177
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
miR-222 in HCC tumors, early-passages of HCC
new approaches of early diagnosis and disease
cultures and established cell lines. In addition, our
monitoring in patients with HCC.
data also indicated distinct over-expressions of
(MD06674)
miR-221 and miR-222 in primary HCC whereas
absence or negligible detection was suggested in the
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
putative pre-malignant lesion i.e. the cirrhotic liver
for more details of the following ongoing research
adjacent to the tumor. Given that little is known
at the department:
about the function(s) of miR-221 and miR-222, the
aim of this work is to define the role of these miRNAs
Edition
Title/Investigators
in HCC oncogenesis.
(CU06410)
2003-04 The
Role
of
Pif1
DNA
Helicase
Homolog in Telomere Maintenance and
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Research Group :
Chromosome Stability in Mammalian
Clinical Applications of Functional Genomics
Cells (CU03411)
 Anthony W.I. LO
 WONG Nathalie  LAI Bo San Paul (Surgery) 
POON Chuen Wai (Medicine & Therapeutics)
CHAN
Lik
Therapeutics)
Yuen

Henry
TO Ka Fai
(Medicine

John P.*


MURNANE
NG Ho Keung

PANG
Chung Sean Jesse

&
YEO Winnie
2004-05 The
Role
of
Pif1
DNA
Helicase
(Clinical Oncology)

CHAN Kwan Chee
(Chemical Pathology)

LO Yuk Ming Dennis
Chromosome
(Chemical Pathology)

POON Y. C. Randy*
Embryonic Stem Cells (MD04324)
CHEUNG Siu Tim*

LUK John*

Homolog in Telomere Maintenance and

NGAI
Stability
in
Mouse
 Anthony W.I. LO
Jenny*  CHINNAIYAN, Arul*
2003-04 Interleukin-10 Gene Polymorphisms in
 30 June 2007
Malignancies Associated with Infectious
 Supplementary Funding for RGC Central
Agents in Hong Kong (CU03408)
Allocation
 CHAN Bik Wan

CHAN Wing
Despite advances made in clarifying the genetic and
Yee#  LEI Ieng Kit Kenny (Clinical
cellular changes associated with Hepatocellular
Oncology)
Carcinoma (HCC), the implications of these changes
in clinical utilities and targeted therapies remained
largely
unexplored.
This
project
aims
2005-06 Investigation
at
of
Medulloblastoma
Related MicroRNAs (MD05300)
establishing a comprehensive integrated map of HCC
 CHAN Bik Wan  HUI Bik Yu  LO
at the molecular, proteome and cellular levels.
Kwok Wai
Information derived is expected to consolidate our
POON Wai Sang (Surgery)  NG Ho
understandings on the tumor biology of HCC.
Keung
Promising biomarkers and expression patterns will be
further examined for their potential applications as
Faculty of Medicine
178

LAU Kin Mang

Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
2005-06 Mechanism
of
Institute)#
Nucleocytoplasmic
LAM Ching Wan

Shuttling of OREBP/TonEBP (BL03315)
(Chemical Pathology)
 KO Chi Bun
Wah*  HUI Bik Yu
CHUNG Stephen S

TSAO Sai

M*
2004-05 Study on Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
2005-06 The
Mechanism
of
Genetics (MD04387)
 LO Kwok Wai
OREBP/TonEBP/NFAT5-dependent
Transcription
–
Role
of
Signaling

HUANG POON
Wai Sin Dolly (Hong Kong Cancer
Pathway and Chromatin Remodeling
Institute)#
(BL04799)
Yu  TSAO Sai Wah*
 KO Chi Bun
2005-06 Histone
Acetylation
Molecular
2005-06 Characterization
of
T-Cells
Carcinoma
Patients

Kong

Novel
Target
for

HUANG POON

TO Ka Fai

HUI Bik
WOO
Sang
2005-06 Characterization
John
(Otorhinolaryngology,
Neck S)

a
Yu  TSAO George*
NG Heung Ling
LO Kwok Wai

HUI Bik
Wai Sin Dolly (Hong Kong Cancer
Institute)#
 LAU Kin Mang
as
Therapeutic
 LO Kwok Wai
in
(MD05375)
Margaret

Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (CU05413)
Circulating
Regulatory
Nasopharyngeal
TO Ka Fai
CHUNG Stephen S

M*  RAO Anjanna*
CD4+CD25+

Head
of
MicroRNAs
in
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (MD05731)
and
 LO Kwok Wai
VAN HASSELT Charles
Andrew (Otorhinolaryngology, Head

CHUNG Tin Yun
Grace
and Neck S)
2005-06 Evaluation
2003-04 Comprehensive
Characterization
of
Prognostic
Molecular
of
Immunohistochemical Markers of Ductal
Common Amplicons in Nasopharyngeal
Carcinoma in Situ in Asian Women
Carcinoma (CU03410)
(MD05882)
 LO Kwok Wai

 LUI Chi Wai  TSE Man Kit Gary 
HUANG POON
Wai Sin Dolly (Hong Kong Cancer
Institute)#

HUI Bik Yu

LAU Kin Mang
TEO
2005-06 Metabolic
Man Lung Peter (Clinical Oncology)

Characterization
of
a
Pre-Diabetes Renal Lesion – Isolated
TO Ka Fai
Thick Glomerular Capillary Basement
2004-05 Functional
Role
of
in
Membrane (TGCBM), a Marker for the
Carcinoma
Prevention of Diabetic Nephropathy?
RASSF1A
Nasopharyngeal
Tumorigenesis (CU04255)
(CU05411)
 LO Kwok Wai
 MAC-MOUNE

HUANG POON
Wai Sin Dolly (Hong Kong Cancer
LAI
Fernand

SZETO Cheuk Chun (Medicine &
179
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
Therapeutics)

Growth Inhibition in Childhood Acute
CHAN Chung Ngor
Juliana (Medicine & Therapeutics)
Lymphoblastic Leukemia (CU05415)

 NG Heung Ling Margaret
TO Ka Fai
Kin Mang
2004-05 Immunogenetic Study of Nasopharyngeal
(Chemical Pathology)
(Paediatrics)#
(MD04572)
(Paediatrics)
 NG Heung Ling Margaret
Kin Mang


LO Kwok Wai

LAM Ching Wan

Carcinoma in Hong Kong Chinese
LAU

YANG Mo

CHIK Ki Wai

ZEE Chung Ying

LAU
Benny (Community
ZEE
Medicine)
and
Family
Chung Ying Benny (Community and
Family Medicine)
2005-06 Molecular
WOO Kong

and
Functional
Sang
John
(Otorhinolaryngology,
Characterization of Tazarotene Induced
Head
and
Neck
Gene
HASSELT
S)
Charles
(Otorhinolaryngology,
VAN

(TIG1)
Carcinoma
Andrew
Head
1
in
and
Nasopharyngeal
Medulloblastoma
(CU05409)
and
 NG Ho Keung
Neck S)
CHAN Bik Wan


LO Kwok Wai  PANG Chung Sean
2004-05 A Family Based Case-Control Study of
Immunogenetics
Respiratory
in
Severe
Syndrome
Jesse
Acute
(SARS)
2005-06 Research into Asian Cancers – Integrated
(MD04752)
Genomic Research (MD05591)
 NG Heung Ling Margaret
Kin Mang*


 NG Ho Keung
LAU
and

TO Ka Fai

LO
Kwok Wai  WONG Nathalie
ZEE Chung Ying
Benny (Community
Medicine)

Family
2005-06 The
SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Clinical
Significance
(Medicine & Therapeutics)
and
of
Pathological
Chromosome
1p
Genotyping in Gliomas (CU05416)
 NG Ho Keung
2005-06 Immunogenetics and Viral Genotyping of

POON Wai Sang
Hong Kong Hepatitis B Virus Carriers
(Surgery)
for the Increased Risk of Hepatocellular
PANG Chung Sean Jesse

ZHOU Liang Fu*

Carcinoma (MD05399)
 NG Heung Ling Margaret
Kin Mang
(Surgery)



2005-06 Molecular
LAU

Functional
Characterization of a Novel Candidate
LAI Bo San Paul
WONG Nathalie
and
Tumor Suppressor Gene REOT1 Located
ZEE
Chung Ying Benny (Community and
on Chromosome 1p36.3 (MD05747)
Family Medicine)
 NG Ho Keung
Jesse
2005-06 Elucidation of Molecular Mechanisms of
Thrombospondin (TSP-1)-Induced Cell
Faculty of Medicine
180

PANG Chung Sean
Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
2003-04 Identification
of
Multiple
Suppressor
Genes
8p21-23.1
in
on
Hydroxamic Acid (SAHA) in Gastric
Tumor
Cancer Cells (MD05765)
Chromosome
 TO Ka Fai
Medulloblastoma
(CU03414)
TONG Hung Man

Joanna
 PANG Chung Sean Jesse
NG Ho

2003-04 Characterisation of Genomic Amplicons
Keung  POON Wai Sang (Surgery)
in Hepatocellular Carcinoma : Targeting
Candidate
2005-06 Epigenetic Silencing of DOC2-hDAB2
and
Tumor
Suppressor
DOC2-hDAB2
in
Activity

by
Array-CGH,
Transcriptional Profiling and Functional
of
Study (CU03467)
Nasopharyngeal
 WONG Nathalie  CHAN Yuen Yee
Carcinoma (CU05417)
 TO Ka Fai
Genes
(Paediatrics)
HUANG POON Wai
LAI Bo San Paul

Sin Dolly (Hong Kong Cancer
(Surgery)
Institute)#  LO Kwok Wai
(Community and Family Medicine)
2004-05 Characterization
2005-06 Sequencing Analysis of 3' Region of
CagA
Isolated
Gene in
from
Patients
Helicobacter
Hong
with
Suppressive
Pylori
Kong


of
Tumor
Activating
Factor,
ATF5,
in
 WONG Nathalie  CHAN Yuen Yee
(Paediatrics)
LEUNG Wai Keung
(Medicine & Therapeutics)
the
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (CU04289)
H.
Pylori-Associated Diseases (MD05832)
 TO Ka Fai
of
Role
Transcriptional
Chinese
Different
ZEE Chung Ying Benny

LAI Bo San Paul

(Surgery)
NG
Enders Kwok-wai (Surgery)
2004-05 Characterizing the Viral Hepatitis B
Integrants
2005-06 Centre for MicroRNA Study - Basic
in
Human
Research and Clinical Applications in
Carcinoma (MD04723)
Nasopharyngeal Cancer and Liver Cancer
 WONG Nathalie
(MD05698)

WONG Nathalie

LO Kwok Wai

SMITH David I.*

2005-06 Functional Characterization of PFTK1 in
TONG Chi Fai Michael

Head
the
and

Cellular
Invasion
 WONG Nathalie
Bazan
J. Fernando*  NG Ho Keung

Human
POON Chuen
Wai (Medicine & Therapeutics)
POON Y C Randy*
2005-06 In Vivo Anticancer Effect of Histone
Inhibitor
of
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (CU05418)
POON Chuen Wai
(Medicine & Therapeutics)
Deacetylase

LAI Bo San Paul
(Otorhinolaryngology,
Neck S)
CHAN Lik Yuen
Henry (Medicine & Therapeutics)
 TO Ka Fai
(Surgery)

Hepatocellular


LAI Bo San
Paul (Surgery)
Suberoylanilide
181
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology
 WONG Nathalie  SY Ming Hui#
2005-06 Elucidation of Candidate Genes on chr
7q34-q36
in
the
Progression
of
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (MD05864)
Faculty of Medicine
182
Dept of Anatomy
members of ligand-independent orphan nuclear
RESEARCH PROJECTS
receptors are important regulators of many basic
cellular functions and involved widely in many
A Functional Study of Estrogen Receptor-Related
physiological processes via their transcriptional
Receptor β in Prostate Cancer
regulation of gene expression.
Among these orphan
receptors, we are particularly interested on the
 CHAN Leung Franky
estrogen receptor-related receptors (ERRs) as they
 1 January 2007
are close relative of ERs and also involved in similar
ER-mediated regulatory pathways in target cells.
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
ERRs consist of three closely related subtypes (α, β
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed
and γ), which are encoded by different genes.
cancer in men in many Western countries. Recently,
Although ERRs are homologous to ERs in their
its incidence rates are increasing rapidly in Asia,
protein structures, ERRs do not bind to estrogens and
including China and Hong Kong.
thus they are classified as orphan nuclear receptor.
prostate
are
heterogeneous
in
their
Similar to ERs, ERRs can bind to the consensus
and
responses
hormonal
estrogen response element (ERE) and ERE-related
Most prostate cancers grow slowly
DNA elements, which are also recognized by other
cancers
progression
rates
interventions.
The clinical
to
and depend on androgens, and thus androgen ablation
nuclear receptors.
therapy is effective but only temporarily.
cross-talk with ERs or other nuclear receptors at
Many
Therefore, ERRs can interact or
patients under hormone therapy will progress to an
transcription level in target cells.
advanced androgen-independent and metastatic stage
background, we hypothesize that besides ERs, ERRs
in few years, and resulted in high mortalities.
may be critically involved in the regulation of normal
Despite much research works conducted in this area,
prostatic growth and prostate cancer development via
the mechanisms underlying the initiation and
similar
progression of both latent and clinical prostate cancers
independent pathways.
are still not well understood.
Steroid hormones,
[J Clin Endocrinol Metab (2005) 90:1830-1844], we
particularly androgens, play a major role in the
demonstrate that members of ERRs are co-expressed
growth and function of prostate gland, and also its
with ERs in normal prostate epithelial cells and they
neoplastic growths.
Besides androgens, estrogens
display differential expression patterns in prostate
have been suggested to play certain roles in these
cancer cells. Among the three ERR subtypes, ERRβ
regulatory processes and contribute differently at
shows a distinct down-regulation pattern in most
different developmental stages, largely based on the
prostate cancer cell lines and clinical neoplastic
positive expression of estrogen receptors (ERs) and
tissues.
estrogen metabolism related enzymes in this gland.
study to investigate in-depth the functional role of
However,
and
ERRβ in the growth regulation of prostate cancer
ER-mediated signaling pathways in prostate gland
cells, the epigenetic effects on its down-regulation in
and prostate cancer are still undefined.
prostate cancer cells and to identify its target genes in
the
exact
roles
of
estrogens
Recent
ER-mediated
pathways
or
In a recent expression study
In this proposal, we plan to extend our
prostatic cells.
advances in nuclear receptors also indicate that
regulatory
Based on this
Our preliminary results show that
ectopic expression of ERRβ can inhibit significantly
183
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anatomy
the in vitro and in vivo prostate cancer cell growth,
Hence, we hypothesize that other ER-related
suggesting that ERRβ may play a tumor-suppressing
receptors or alternative estrogen-signaling pathways
function in prostate cancer cells.
Through this
could exist and be involved in the regulation of
in-depth study, we strongly believe that valuable
normal and neoplastic prostate growth and functions.
information on the significance of ERRβ in prostatic
Based on this background, we are interested to study
function and prostate cancer development will be
the estrogen receptor-related receptors (ERRs) in
obtained.
This information will not only be
prostate and prostate cancer as these nuclear
valuable to our understanding on the functional role
receptors are structurally and functionally related to
of ERRβ in prostate cancer but also its potential use
ERs.
as a novel biomarker or therapeutic target for this
three closely related subtypes: α, β, γ. All ERRs are
disease.
highly homologous to ERs in their protein structure,
(CU06411)
particularly in their DNA- and ligand-binding
ERRs are nuclear receptors and consist of
domains.
However, ERRs can constitutively
A Functional and Molecular Characterization of
transactivate target gene promoters without binding
an Orphan Nuclear Receptor ERR as Putative
to estrogens and thus they are classified as orphan
Tumor Suppressor in Prostate Cancer
nuclear receptors.
Recent studies indicate that
ERRs can cross-talk with the ligand-dependent ERs
 CHAN Leung Franky

in many cell types via regulation of same target
CHOY Kwong Wai
genes or interfere with one another's functional
(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
activity by competing for same coregulators and
 29 June 2007
DNA binding sites.
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Based on this, we hypothesize
that besides ERs, ERRs may also be involved in the
Grants)
estrogen signaling pathways, and piay certain
Besides androgens, estrogens nave been suggested to
regulatory roles in the normal and neoplastic
play certain roles in normal and neoplastic growths
prostates.
of prostate gland, largely based on the positive
the functional roles of ERR/and identify its target
expression of estrogen receptors (ERs) and estrogen
genes in prostate cancer cells with an ultimate goal of
metabolism-related enzymes in this gland.
It is
understanding better its specific roles in the
generally believed that direct estrogenic effects on
regulation of prostate cancer cell growth and prostate
the prostate or their possible roles in prostate cancer,
carcinogenesis.
benign prostatic hyperplasia and non-bacterial
(MD06641)
The main aim of this proposal is to study
prostatitis are partially mediated by estrogen
receptors, ERα and ERβ.
However, studies from
Genomic Approaches to Uncover Functionally
ER-knockout mouse models raise a query on the
Relevant Signaling Pathways in Craniofacial
significance of ERs in adult prostate, as targeted
Development
disruption of ERs does not affect significantly the
 CHAN Wood Yee
prostatic structure and functions, suggesting a

CHEAH Kathryn S.E.*

possible functional redundancy of ERs or other
CHOW, K.L.*  HUANG J.D.*  SHAM M.H.*
alternative signaling pathways are present in prostate.

Faculty of Medicine
184
SMITH D.K.*
Dept of Anatomy
 30 March 2006
sulfate (CS) moieties of matrix proteoglycans have
 RGC-Central Allocation Scheme - Group
recently emerged as a primary factor in restricting the
path of growing axons. Our preliminary analysis of
Research
the E13.5 rat brain found difference in sulfation
Many of the genes implicated in human deafness are
pattern of CS between forebrain and hindbrain, in
expressed in the ear during development. A
correlation with axonal projections observable in the
significant number of these have been discovered
hindbrain in the hindbrain but not yet in the forebrain.
through studying mouse models – either by
At E13.5, chondroitinase digestion of hindbrain CS
identifying mutations in existing mutants or by
resulted in dispersed axonal projections that further
gain-of or loss of function genetic manipulation of
suggest axon-restrictiveness of the majority of matrix
mouse genome. The theme of this study is focused on
CS. We therefore hypothesize that the sulfation
uncovering genetic relationships and functionally
pattern of CSs in early embryonic environment
relevant signaling pathways in ear development,
confer restriction on axonal growth and that
which is founded on the exciting results of our
modification of their sulfation pattern is a mechanism
current project. Working as a multidisciplinary team
to allow axonal negotiation through an otherwise
form HKU, HKUST and CUHK, we will use
restrictive environment. To address this, we propose
conditional
and
(1) to determine the change in sulfation pattern of
transgenesis in mouse and worm models, embryology,
hindbrain CS and to correlate the change with
bioinformatics, advanced imaging and lineage tracing,
expression pattern of chondroitin sulfotransferases in
to address key issues on induction, patterning and
the brain during early axonal projections; and (2) to
morphogenesis in the mouse middle ear and inner ear.
determine the spatiotemporal changes in expression
Congenital deafness occurs in one in 800 live births
of chondroitin sulfortransferases in relation to
and hearing loss affects one in three elderly people.
restrictions to commissural projections of vestibular
Our studies will provide important insight into causes
nuclear neurons in the developing hindbrain. Results
of human deafness which may lead to the
of the study will recognize sulfation of chondroitin
development of therapies for hearing loss.
moieties of proteoglycans as a means of fine-tuning
(MD05575)
the in vivo microenvironment for the layout of early
gene
activation/inactivation
embryonic neuronal projections. Results will also be
Role of Chondroitin Sulfates in the Regulation of
significant for the design of strategy to target
Axonal Growth and Patterning in the Developing
specifically axon-restrictive CSs that build up in the
Hindbrain
injured neural environment.
(MD06449)
 CHAN Wood Yee

SHUM Daisy KY*

FAWCELL JW*  CHAN YS*
Identifying the Tissue of Origin and Lineage of
 1 September 2006
Microglial Progenitors in situ
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
 CHAN Wood Yee  REZAIE Payam*
Establishing correct neuronal circuitry is an important
 1 January 2007
goal in developmental neurobiology. The chondroitin
185
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anatomy
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Grants)
Recent evidence suggests that microglia (the resident
mononuclear phagocytes of the nervous system) may
Hirschsprung’s
exert neuroprotective and neurotrophic functions that
megacolon, is the most common gastrointestinal
are distinct from their potential to cause harm within
motility disorder in newborns.
the
these
feature of HD is an abnormal dilatation of the distal
“newly-found” capabilities of microglia represents a
colon resulting from a regional absence or reduction
new era of research into the biological function of
of enteric ganglion cells. It has been known that all
these cells.
However, despite intense study, the
the intrinsic enteric ganglion cells are derived from
precise tissue of origin and cell lineage of microglia
neural crest cells, which migrate along defined
still remain unclear.
pathways from the neural tube (embryonic central
nervous
system.
investigations
by
Tapping
into
Our own findings and
others
indicate
that,
unlike
disease
(HD),
or
congenital
The prominent
nervous system) to the gut during embryonic
macroglia (astrocytes and oligodendrocytes) and
development.
neurons, which arise from the neuroectoderm,
HD is a developmental disorder related to the
microglial progenitors arise from mesodermal tissues,
abnormal development of neural crest cells.
and colonise the nervous system during embryonic
studies on avian embryos have also indicated that
and fetal periods of development.
This proposal
neural crest cells at the sacral level contribute a
aims to establish the tissue of origin and lineage of
significant number of enteric neurons to the hindgut,
microglial progenitors in situ in mouse embryos by
the region of the gut where aganglionosis is usually
means
(immunohistochemical)
detected in HD patients. In the present study, we
characterization, in situ hybridization and in vivo cell
aim to identify the anomalies in the migration of
tracking. This information is critical not only from
sacral neural crest cells in a mouse mutant model for
a developmental perspective, but significantly from a
HD by using a combination of techniques including
therapeutic
progenitors
whole embryo culture, in situ cell labelling, gut
specifically target the central nervous system, and
explant culture, immunofluorescence staining and
this becomes feasible only if the origin and cell
3-dimensional image reconstruction.
lineage of the microglial progenitors are known and
marker, eGFP, will also be used to label the migrating
these cells can be isolated and manipulated in vitro (i.e.
sacral neural crest cells. The results will provide us
to express specific trophic factors) prior to therapeutic
with the important information as to whether
transfer in vivo.
anomalies in the sacral neural crest cell migration are
(CU06412)
a cause of reduction in enteric ganglia in the mutant
of
phenotypic
viewpoint
-
microglial
Hence, it is generally believed that
Recent
A genetic
mouse and possibly also in HD patients, and also give
Towards
a
Better
Understanding
of
us insight into the pathogenetic mechanism of HD.
the
Embryological Basis of Hirschsprung’s Disease
(MD06995)
 CHAN Wood Yee
Factors Influencing the Regeneration of Retinal
 30 June 2007
Ganglion Cell Axons Studied by a Model of an
Extensive Lesion of the Optic Nerve
Faculty of Medicine
186
Dept of Anatomy
 1 January 2007
 CHO Yu Pang Eric
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
 1 June 2007
Pregnancies complicated by maternal diabetes are
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
associated with an increased rate of birth defects.
Grants)
Interestingly, many of the organ systems commonly
Damage to axons of the central nervous system (CNS)
affected in the offspring of diabetic mothers are
usually results in limited regeneration and poor
similar to those affected by deficiency or excess
recovery.
intake of vitamin A, or its active metabolite, retinoic
It is currently believed that the glial
limiting
acid. As retinoic acid is a key signaling molecule in
regeneration but the relative contributions by the
embryonic development, its concentration in the
different glial cells remain controversial. We have
embryo is tightly regulated, with both excess and
recently observed that contrary to popular thinking,
deficiency leading to malformation. While there is
the lesion environment of the CNS may instead
increasing evidence that vitamin A and retinoic acid
possess properties supportive of axonal regeneration.
concentrations are altered in patients with diabetes
This conclusion is based on our finding that retinal
mellitus, there are no reported studies on whether
ganglion cell axons can be induced to regenerate in a
retinoic acid signaling in the embryo is affected in
lesion environment created by crushing the optic
diabetic pregnancy.
Recently, we have used a
nerve for an extensive distance instead of a focal
mouse
demonstrate
injury. This new experimental paradigm allows a
diabetes/hyperglycemia can potentiate the effect of
detailed analysis of the behavior of damaged axons in
retinoic acid in causing birth defects. Moreover, we
the lesion environment to be made. In this study,
find that the expression level of Cyp26al, the key
we propose to elucidate the relationships of axons
enzyme for the breakdown (catabolism) of retinoic
regenerating in the extensive lesion to that of glial
acid, is significantly reduced in embryos of diabetic
cells so as to identify which glial populations are
mice compared with embryos of non-diabetic mice,
involved in the process of regeneration. Moreover,
both in the absence and in the presence of a
experimental
teratogenic dose of retinoic acid.
environment
plays
a
major
conditions
role
which
in
may
enhance
model
to
that
maternal
regeneration will be tested in this lesion paradigm in
To aim of this project is to test our hypothesis that
order to understand more on the factors which
down-regulation of Cyp26al by maternal diabetes
promote axonal regeneration in the CNS.
leads to reduced retinoic acid catabolism, resulting in
(MD06632)
a higher effective concentration of retinoic acid and
thus an increase in teratogenic effect. Results of this
The Role of Retinoic Acid Catabolism in
project will provide fundamental information on the
Increased
pathogenic mechanism of diabetic embryopathy and
Susceptibility
to
Retinoic
Acid
pave the way to derive preventive measures to reduce
Teratogenicity in Diabetic Pregnancy
the risk of congenital malformation in human diabetic
 SHUM Sau Wun Alisa
MCCAFFERY Peter*

COPP Andrew J.*

pregnancy.

(CU06416)
WANG Chi Chiu
(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
187
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anatomy
An Investigation of Retinoid Homeostasis in the
implantation in diabetic pregnancy, with an ultimate
Female Reproductive System under Diatetes
goal to design treatment to improve the reproductive
performance of women with diabetes.
(MD06369)
 SHUM Sau Wun Alisa
 1 April 2007
South China National Research Centre for
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Integrated Biosciences in Collaboration with
Grants)
Zhongshan University – Aging & Degenerative
The aim of this project is to determine whether
Diseases (Group 1)
diabetes will affect retinoid homeostasis in the female
reproductive system.
 YEW Tai Wai David
Diabetes is associated with reduced pregnancy rate
 1 July 2005
and increased risk of having babies with congenital
malformations.
 Development Grant
Homeostasis of vitamin A and its
active metabolites retinoic acid, regulated by
The aging and degenerative diseases will target on
balancing actions of the synthesizing enzymes,
the study of Partkinsonism, Alzheimer diseases,
catabolizing enzymes and binding proteins, is
multiple
essential for female reproduction and embryo
psychobiological diseases. The studies would include
development. There are emerging evidences that the
both cell culture and on CNS tissue of human or
plasma and liver concentrations of vitamin A, retinoic
animals. The approaches would include biophysical
acid and retinol binding protein are altered in diabetic
(fMRI), biochemical and cytochemical evaluations.
patients.
Recently, using a mouse model, the Pi’s
Changes and mechanisms involved are equally
laboratory has demonstrated that maternal diabetes or
stressed. We have established already several
hyperglycemia changes the expression levels of both
collaborating centers in Southern China, which would
the retinoic acid synthesizing and catabolizing
be fully functional in the coming few years.
enzymes in the embryo.
(MD05911)
However, whether retinoid
infarct
dementia,
normal
aging
and
homeostasis in the female reproductive system is
altered under diabetes remains to be determined.
The specific objectives of this project are to carry out
人鼠腦衰老同源靶點基因的確立及相關基因藥物
a detailed comparison of the temporal and spatial
治療研究
expressions of the various retinoic acid synthesizing
Anti-Aging Drug Screening, Using Aging-Related
and catabolizing enzymes, and retinoid binding
Homologous Genes between Human and SAM
proteins in the female reproductive system between
Mice
diabetic and non-diabetic mice: (i) at different stages
 姚大衛 YEW Tai Wai David
of the ovarian cycle; (ii) under hormonal induction;
FENG Zhong
Tang*  路鋼 LU Gang (Surgery)
and (iii) during early pregnancy.
Results of this project will provide fundamental
 1 December 2005
information for future study to investigate the role of
retinoid homeostasis in the conception and embryo
Faculty of Medicine

188
Dept of Anatomy
 Kunming Medical University  Natural Science
2003-04 Developmental
Controls
of
Axon
Patterning in the Retinofugal Pathway of
Foundation of Yunnan of China
Mouse Embryos (CU03417)
目前認為腦衰老引起的變化主要是由於神經遞質
 CHAN Sun On
的釋放、突觸的可塑性以及囊泡的運輸能力等相關
基因表達變化引起的。本項目計劃利用我們已有
2005-06 Roles of Protein Kinase C Mediated
的，國際上唯一公認的衰老哺乳動物模型—快速老
Inhibitory Mechanisms on Patterning the
化小鼠(Senescence Accelerated Mouse, SAM)做如
Axon Orders in the Mouse Retinofugal
下研究﹕1. 在功能明確的人類腦衰老相關的 15 個
Pathway (CU05420)
調控神經遞質釋放、突觸可塑性以及囊泡運輸的基
 CHAN Sun On
因范圍內，尋找認該品系小鼠腦和人類腦衰老變化
同時相的同源基因。2. 通過生物信息學分析，在
2003-04 Is Abnormal Sacral Neural Crest Cell
確認的同源基因中尋找 3~5 個最有可能與腦衰老
Migration to the Gut Involved in
有關的決定基因。3. 在体內和体外通過基因藥物
Aganglionosis : An Investigation Using
(AVV/Lentivirous 介導的基因超表達技術或 RNA
an Animal Model for Hirschsprung's
干擾技術)對籂選的決定性基因(Mrna)進行干預調
Disease (CU03418)
控，研究其與腦衰老的直接關系，評價基因孳物的
 CHAN Wood
療效。
Yee

Alan
J.
BURNS*
本研究將推動對老年病特別是大腦衰老病變的分
子機理的闡明及腦衰老相關基因藥物的研發。人鼠
2004-05 The Role of DOC-2 / Dab2 in the
腦衰老同源靶點基因的建立可提供一個腦衰老相
Prenatal Development of the Neocortex
關的基因治療或藥物治療的評價体系；該体系也可
(CU04262)
作為雲南省天然抗衰老藥物的可靠的基因調控水
 CHAN Wood Yee
平籂選平台；利用該靶點基因建立起來的基因藥物
YEW Tai Wai

David  MOK Chi Ho Samuel*
治療方案有望進一步發展到臨床應用。
(BL05458)
2005-06 S100 Proteins and Brain Development
(CU05421)
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
 CHAN Wood Yee
for more details of the following ongoing research

HEIZMANN C
W*  YEW Tai Wai David
at the department:
2005-06 The Origin, Lineage and Distribution of
Edition
Title/Investigators
Microglial
Progenitor
Cells
in
the
Prenatal Mouse (BL05804)
2005-06 Role of ERRs in the Development of
 CHAN
Prostate Cancer (MD05888)
Wood
Yee

REZAIE
Payam*
 CHAN Leung Franky
2003-04 Does Deletion of Male Accessory Sex
Glands Produce Heritable Changes in
Spermatozoa? (CU03419)
189
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Anatomy
 CHOW Pak Ham Patricia

Proliferation
ANNE
and
Differentiation
(MD05617)
Ferguson-Smith*  O Wai Sum*
 LEE Ka Ho Kenneth
2005-06 A Role for Mammalian Male Accessory

CAI Dong
Qing*
Sex Glands on Uterine Receptivity
(CU05422)
2004-05 Sources,
 CHOW Pak Ham Patricia

Health
O Wai
Fates,
Environmental
Effects
of
Persistent
and
Toxic
Substances from E-waste Recycling in
Sum*
Southeast China (BL03916)
 LIU Wing Keung Ken  WONG Tze
2003-04 The Role of a Novel TNF-a Modulator
Gene
(BRE)
in
Acute
Hepatitis
Wai
(Community
(CU03421)
Medicine)
 LEE Ka Ho Kenneth  CHAN John*
WANG Youfa*


CHUI Yiu
Loon (Clinical Immunology Unit)
2004-05 Proteomic Analysis of Differentially
Death
in
CHAN Pui Ha*

LUK John*
ZHANG Ren Ji*


Howan*

Bruneau

YU Linda W L*

WU
Mouse
2003-04 The
(CU04265)
Mechanism
Susceptibility

YUNG Kin Lam
Tangchun*  DU Ping*
Embryonic Limb Interdigital Tissues
 LEE Ka Ho Kenneth



Christian*
Expressed Proteins during the Onset of
Cell
WONG M. H.*

MAK Nai Ki*
LEUNG
Programmed
Family
Ken*  WONG Ngok Shun Ricky* 
CHING Kar Keung (Anatomical &
Cellular Pathology)
and
to
of
Increased
Retinoic
Acid
Teratogenicity in Diabetic Pregnancy
CAI Dong
(CU03397)
Qing*
 SHUM Sau Wun Alisa  COPP A J*
2005-06 Cardiac Vascular Specific Peptide H1
Mediate
Functional
Angiogenesis

in
Gynaecology)
Ischemic Heart (MD05533)
 LEE Ka Ho Kenneth
Qing*


CAI Dong
LI Ming (Epithelial Cell
Biology Research Centre)
2005-06 Role of Cyclin I, An Atypical Cyclin, in
the
Regulation
Faculty of Medicine
of
WANG Chi Chiu (Obstetrics &
Cardiomyocyte
190
Dept of Biochemistry (Medicine)
experiments will be performed to assess the expression
RESEARCH PROJECTS
of GHR and PRLR in seabream tissues under various
osmotic conditions, hi addition, the promoters of these
Osmoregulatory Control of Growth Hormone
genes will be cloned and studied in cultured fish cell
Receptor and Prolactin Receptor Expression in
lines to correlate with the gene expression data. These
Seabream:
studies will lead to the elucidation of responsive
Gene
Promoter
Studies
and
elements on the gene promoters responsible for
Identification of Cis-and Trans-acting Elements
controlling the expression of these genes during
 CHENG Hon Ki Christopher

osmoregulation in fish. Results obtained in the present
CHAN Chi Bun
study would shed Light on the participation of GHR and
(Biochemistry (Science))#
PRLR in this vital physiological process in teleost.
 1 January 2007
(CU06418)
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Osmoregulation is an important physiological process in
The Presence of a Novel Prolactin Receptor in
aquatic organisms.
In fish, mechanisms have been
Teleosts-functional Characterization and Gene
evolved to cope with changes in the osmolarity of the
Regulation of the Two Teleostean Prolactin
aquatic environment.
Receptors
Among them growth hormone
(GH) and prolactin (PRL) secreted from the pituitary
play important roles. Changes in the expression levels
 CHENG Hon Ki Christopher
of these pituitary hormones have been demonstrated in
 1 March 2007
response to osmotic changes.
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
These hormones elicit
their biological actions via their respective receptors
Grants)
located on the target tissues. However, changes in the
expression level of growth hormone receptor (GHR) and
Prolactin (PRL) is a polypeptide hormone secreted
prolactin receptor (PRLR) during osmotic changes in
from the anterior pituitary of vertebrates.
fish tissues have not been systematically studied. Our
receptor (PRLR), a member of the cytokine receptor
initial experimental data show that the expression of
family, is present on the cell surface of target tissues
GHR and PRLR in fish is concomitantly controlled
for ligand recognition and signal transduction.
during osmotic challenge.
We hypothesize that this
addition to the existing PRLR found in vertebrates,
coordinate control of both the hormones and their
we have discovered another novel PRLR in teleost
receptors is part of the animal’s physiological response
fish encoded by a separate gene. This phenomenon
to salinity changes in the environment. This project
of having two independent PRLRs encoded by two
attempts to study the regulatory mechanisms in the
separate genes was substantiated in different fish
control of GHR and PRLR expression during osmotic
species, namely Nile tilapia, black seabream, fugu
challenge in black seabream. This fish species, widely
and zebrafish.
cultured in Hong Kong and nearby regions, is a good
PRLRs in fish, amphibian, bird and mammals
model for such studies because of its ability to tolerate
demonstrated that two PRLRs co-existing in a single
a wide range of salinities.
species is a unique phenomenon for teleost. These
In vitro and in vivo
PRL
In
Phylogenetic tree constructed with
two PRLR subtypes (the conventional one named as
191
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Biochemistry (Medicine)
PRLR1, the novel one as PRLR2) feature the typical
debilitating diseases.
There are currently 19
long form of mammalian PRLRs, especially in their
FDA-approved therapeutic antibodies on the market,
extracellular regions and the conserved motifs in the
more than 150 are being critically evaluated by
intracellular regions. However, despite their overall
companies located worldwide [Nature Biotechnology
structural similarity, the two PRLR subtypes share
23 (2005): 1073].
very low amino acid similarities (about 30%), mainly
reengineering technologies such as chimerization and
due to several deletions in the intracellular region of
humanization are considered crucial for the clinical
PRLR2.
A tissue distribution study by real-time
success of therapeutic antibodies. However, these
PCR in black seabream exhibited that both receptors
technologies are extensively patent-protected, making
(sbPRLRl and sbPRLR2) were widely expressed in
the entry barrier prohibitive for biotech start-ups.
different tissues.
In gill, the expression level of
Based on a novel technology developed in our group
sbPRLR2 is much higher than sbPRLRl. However,
(US Patent Application Number 10/880238), we have
in heart and spleen, sbPRLR2 was not detected at all.
derived a novel and improved approach in reducing
In this project we plan to functionally express the
the immunogenicity of murine antibodies.
cloned sbPRLRl and sbPRLR2 cDNA sequences in
successful establishment of the platform will allow
cultured eukaryotic cells and to study their signal
HK and China-based companies to enter the global
transduction mechanisms. Their regulation of gene
antibody industry with competitive technologies. A
expression in vitro and in vivo will also be
China-based
investigated.
Also, we have already cloned the
interested in the technology and agrees to sponsor the
promoter regions of these two PRLRs and a detailed
research with the provision of a well-characterized,
characterization of their promoter activities will be
proprietary chimeric therapeutic antibody targeting
performed in response to various hormonal stimuli.
TNFalppha for proof of concept studies.
(MD06460)
therefore aim to: (1) generate a clinically useful
The advent of antibody
therapeutic
antibody
company
The
is
We
anti-TNFalpha antibody with substantially reduced
Antibody
immunogenicities that eventually will go into clinics;
Reengineering Platform Technology (Framework
(2) establish a platform comparable to existing
Casting) for Reducing the Immunogenicity of
antibody
Therapeutic Antibodies
dissemination to industries located locally, in China,
Establishment
of
an
Improved
humanization
technologies
for
or globally
 CHEUNG Wing Tai

(BL06395)
LEE Sau Tuen Susanna
(Biochemistry (Science))
YY1-and
 1 March 2007
ATF4-mediated
Control
of
Apolipoprotein E Gene Transcription
 ITF - Guangdong-Hong Kong Technology
Cooperation Funding Scheme (Platform
 HO Yuanyuan  WONG Kam Bo (Biochemistry
Research Scheme)  Lonn Ryonn Pharma Ltd 
(Science))
Sino Mab BioScience Ltd
 30 June 2007
Therapeutic antibodies have constituted one-third of
biologics approved for treating cancers and other
Faculty of Medicine
192
Dept of Biochemistry (Medicine)
 30 June 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Grants)
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Grants)
Altered plasma apoE protein level is a risk factor for
coronary heart disease (CHD) and Alzheimer’s
The intent of the proposed research is to isolate and
disease (AD).
characterize
In addition, single nucleotide
laccases
from
wild
mushrooms.
polymorphisms (SNPs), i.e. -491A/T and -219 G/T in
Mushrooms have proven to be rich sources of
the APOE gene promoter have been shown to modify
important natural products and are often dietary
the risk of AD and CHD. These observations lead
components in the Chinese population.
to the speculation that the association between APOE
mushroom species selected are wild mushrooms that
promoter SNPs and disease risks is related to changes
have been claimed to have health promoting effects.
of APOE gene transcription activity and the
They are available at affordable prices and have
subsequent protein expression level.
Our overall
started to become popular. Laccases are enzymes
objective is to understand the control mechanism of
responsible for lignin degradation and thus important
APOE gene transcription.
By yeast one-hybrid
to the saprophytic mode of life of fungi and are
screening of the human brain cDNA library using the
potentially useful for biotechnological applications
polymorphic DNA sequences spanning APOE
e.g. for biocatalytic purposes such as delignification
promoter -491 polymorphic site as the ‘baits’, we
of
have identified ATF4 and YY1 being the interacting
polysaccharides, for bioremediation such as waste
transcription factors at this region.
We have
detoxification and textile dye transformation, for use
demonstrated the active role of ATF4 in regulating
in food technological, for personal and medical care
APOE gene transcription. In this proposed project,
applications and for biosensor and analytical
we plan to achieve three specific aims: 1. To confirm
purposes.
the physical interaction between APOE promoter and
subject
YY1; 2. To confirm the functional effects of YY1 on
extensively studied before and the wild mushroom
APOE promoter activity and endogenous APOE gene
species that we propose to work on are essentially
expression; and 3. To study the interactive effect of
unexplored.
The
YY1 and ATF4 on apoE gene expression. Based on
lipid-lowering
drug
the reported association between APOE promoter
immunoenhancing polysaccharopeptide from the
SNPs
mushroom Coriolus versicolor are but a few examples
with
human
diseases,
elucidating
the
lignocellulosics
and
The
cross-linking
of
The mushroom proteins that are the
of
this
investigation
antibiotic
have
not
been
penicillin,
lovastatin,
and
the
the
mechanism of transcription control of the APOE
of fungal products beneficial to man.
gene may inspire new ways to neutralize disease
that novel and useful compounds for therapeutic and
risks by normalizing plasma apoE level.
industrial applications can arise from this proposed
(MD06653)
investigation on wild mushrooms.
It is hoped
(MD06720)
Isolation and Characterization of Mushroom
Laccases
Molecular Epidemiology of HIV in Hong Kong
 NG Tzi Bun
193
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Biochemistry (Medicine)
 TSUI Kwok Wing

(Medicine & Therapeutics)
(Stanley Ho CEID)

 TSUI Kwok Wing
SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu


(Biochemistry (Science))
LEE Shui Shan
TSANG Suk Ying

CHIM Siu Chung
Stephen (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
CHAN Kay Sheung Paul
(Microbiology)  YU Chun Ho Simon*
 1 June 2007
 1 October 2006
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 Council for the AIDS Trust Fund
Grants)
Molecular epidemiology is an important aspect of
In the course of postnatal myocardial development,
public health HTV medicine.
The determination of
cardiac myocytes convert from hyperplastic to
the subtype, mutation patterns and their evolution
hypertrophic growth. In the rat, myocytes lose their
could inform public health authorities of the ways
capacity to replicate after about two weeks, and
different HTV strains are originated and spreading in
myocardial growth from this point forward is
a population. Therefore, molecular epidemiological
primarily due to hypertrophy of existing myocytes.
investigation is expected to provide information
In contrast to the relatively well characterized
critical for the prevention of local HIV spread. To
possess
date, no full-length genome of HTV isolates from
investigations
Hong Kong has been sequenced for reference, nor
that
control
myocyte
hypertrophy,
focused
on
determining
mechanisms
regulating
the
has molecular virology been examined to plot the
proliferation
during
path of virus dissemination.
With the increasing
development are limited. We previously identified
interaction between the populations in Hong Kong
a pool of differentially expressed genes in rat
and Mainland, HIV epidemiology would likely
neonatal hearts.
evolve along new paths, a phenomenon different
in DNA methylation and chromatin remodeling
from that of importing virus from South East Asia
processes.
and western countries in the eighties and nineties.
methylation-sensitive-representational
The aim of this project is to study the molecular
analysis method, we have performed a genome-wide
epidemiology of HIV infection by analyzing the
search for differentially methylated genes between
full-length genome sequences of HIV isolates
day 1 and day 14 neonatal rat hearts. In this project,
collected in Hong Kong.
At least 30 samples in
more candidate genes will be isolated from the
different categories according to the routes of
subtractive cDNA library and the methylation status
transmission will be analyzed.
These sequences
of candidate genes during neonatal heart development
may serve as an important reference for the future
will be validated by bisulfite sequencing technique
molecular epidemiological study of HIV in Hong
and 5-azacytidine treatment. We believe the genes
Kong.
identified in this project are important candidates for
(MD06661)
future studies on the terminal differentiation of
loss
postnatal
of
the
myocyte
myocardial
Many of these genes are involved
Using
the
difference
cardiomyocytes.
(MD06923)
Identification of Methylated Genes Involved in the
Terminal Differentiation of Cardiomyocytes
A Proteomic and DNA Microarray Analysis on
Serum Proteins and Heart Muscle after Chronic
Faculty of Medicine
194
Dept of Biochemistry (Medicine)
Infusion of a TCM Formula (Cenqi Fuzheng
Injection 參芪扶正注射液) in an Ischemic Animal
Edition
Title/Investigators
Model
2004-05 Molecular Mechanism of Prolactin Gene
 WAN Chi Cheong David
(Biochemistry (Science))


Regulation in Fish (CU04410)
SHAW Pang Chui
FUNG Kwok Pui
 CHAN King Ming

KWAN Yiu Wa (Pharmacology)

CHENG Hon
Ki Christopher
 1 September 2006
2005-06 Regulation
 Livzon Pharmaceutical Group Inc
of
Metallothionein
Gene
Expression in Zebrafish (MD05355)
 CHAN King Ming
The project objectives have two specific aims:
1.
2.
To provide a comprehensive and global analysis
of the protein expression profiles of serum
1990-91 Comparative Endocrinology of Prolactin,
proteins in an ischemic animal model after TCM
Growth Hormone, and Their Receptors
infusion.
(BP88031)
To identify target gene candidates for the effect
 CHENG Hon Ki Christopher
of TCM by the analysis of a differential RNA
Tzi Bun
expression profile through DNA microarray.
(Physiology)

NG
WONG Chun Cheung

(MD06841)
2002-03 Identification
and
Development
Oxidase
Inhibitors
of
Biochemical Analysis of Chinese Medicine :
Xanthine
from
Establishment of Quality Assurance
Chinese Medicinal Natural Products with
Therapeutic Potentials (CU02269)
 CHENG Hon Ki Christopher
 WAN Chi Cheong David

FUNG Kwok Pui
 1 February 2007
 偉信(香港)貿易有限公司
2005-06 Regulation of Growth Hormone Receptor
This project aims at the establishment of quality
and Prolactin Receptor Gene Expression
assurance of TCM formula manufactured and traded
during Osmolarity Changes in Seabream
from Wilson Trading Ltd. We will use an array of
(MD05638)
biochemical and chromatographic techniques to
 CHENG Hon Ki Christopher
identify key constituents from the herbs as indicated
2005-06 Construction and Evaluation of A ScFv
from the specifications of the TCMs.
Antibody-Based
(BL06690)
Immunotoxin
Tumour-Activated
for
Cancer
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
(MD05691)
for more details of the following ongoing research
 CHEUNG Wing Tai
Therapy
at the department:
195
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Biochemistry (Medicine)
2003-04 Bioassay-Guided
Apolipoprotein E Gene Transcription
Isolation,
Characterization, and Mechanistic Study
(BL05979)
of the Bioactive Components from
 HO Yuanyuan
Paeonia Lactiflora, Sophora Flavescens,
Oldenlandia
Diffusa
and
2004-05 Riboregulator
Scutellaria
Modulation
of
Drug
Barbata for the Anti-Proliferative Effect
Resistance in Human Cancer Cells
on Human Hepatoma Cells In Vitro
(CU04270)
(CU03399)
 KWOK Tim Tak
 FUNG Kwok Pui
(Biochemistry (Science))
MAK

Thomas Chung Wai (Chemistry)
TSUI Kwok Wing

KONG Siu Kai
(Biochemistry (Science))
KONG Siu Kai


2005-06 Regulation

of
Therapeutics
Induced
Apoptosis in Human Cancer Cells by an
WAYE Mary
Apoptotic Factor on Chromosome 1q
Miu Yee
(CU05428)
 KWOK Tim Tak
2004-05 Immunomodulatory Activities of Herbal
Formulate 'Kwan Du Bu Fei Dang' in
Healthy
Subjects:
A
KONG Siu Kai
(Biochemistry (Science))
Randomized
Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study
2004-05 Biological Characterization of Recently
(MD04432)
Reported New Classes of Ribosome
 FUNG Kwok Pui
Chung


(Institute
Medicine)

LEUNG Ping
Inactivating Proteins (CU04272)
of
 NG Tzi Bun  WANG Hexiang*
Chinese
TSUI Kwok Wing
WAN Chi Cheong David
Mary Miu Yee


Pathology)
Christopher

AU
2005-06 Isolation
WAYE

Human
LAM
of
Immunodeficiency
Virus
 NG Tzi Bun
Ngor
Shannon (Biochemistry (Science))
Characterization
Enzymes from Edible Fungi (MD05977)
(Chemical
Wing
and
Compound(s) with Inhibitory Effects on
WONG Chun
Kwok (Chemical Pathology)
Wai Kei


2005-06 The Role of Four and a Half LIM
LAU Bik San Clara (School of
Domain Protein 2 in the Regulation of
Pharmacy)
Interleukin-6 Expression in Cardiac and
Skeletal Myocytes (MD05775)
2005-06 Treatment of Breast Tumors by Arsenic
 TSUI Kwok Wing
Trioxide (MD05324)
 FUNG Kwok Pui
2003-04 Promoter
Polymorphism-Mediated
 WAN Chi Cheong David
Nucleotide
Control
of
Wah-keung
(Science))#
Faculty of Medicine
of
Chicken
Acetylcholinesterase Gene (CU03311)
2005-06 Dissecting the Molecular Mechanism of
Single
Analysis
196
Karl

TSIM
(Biochemistry
Dept of Biochemistry (Medicine)
 WAN Chi Cheong David
2005-06 Molecular
and
Crystallographic
Characterization of a Novel Orange
2005-06 To Study the Mechanism of Action of the
Fluorescent Protein from Cerianthus sp.
RhoC in Metastasis of Liver Cancer Cells
(CU05571)
(BL05383)
 WAN Chi Cheong David

 WAYE Mary Miu Yee
WONG
Kam Bo (Biochemistry (Science))
2005-06 Biochemical
Medicine:
Analysis
Establishment
of
of
Chinese
Quality
Assurance (BL05378)
197
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Chemical Pathology
work to further explore the biological and molecular
RESEARCH PROJECTS
characteristics of circulating placental-expressed
mRNA transcripts which may have both biological
Biological and Molecular Characterisation of
and practical implications on the field.
The
Placental-expressed mRNA in Maternal Plasma
characteristics to explore include the effects of
different centrifugation speeds on the recovery and
the differential distribution of both particle- and
 CHIU Wai Kwun Rossa  LO Yuk Ming Dennis

LAU Tze Kin (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
non-particle-associated placental expressed mRNA in

maternal plasma; to develop genotyping methods to
TSUI Bo Yin Nancy
confirm
 1 October 2006
the
fetal
origin
of
the
placental-expressed transcripts in maternal plasma;
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
and to investigate if placental gene expression is
The quest for methods for non-invasive prenatal
affected by allele-specific gene expression.
diagnosis and pregnancy monitoring has been a
(CU06433)
long-sought goal in obstetrical care.
detected
Prenatal
diagnostic methods in current use rely on the
Whole-Genome Linkage Analysis for Mapping a
sampling of genetic material from the baby via means
New
such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling.
Hypocalcemia
By virtue of their invasive nature, these methods are
Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism Microarray
Locus
for
Autosomal
Using
Dominant
High-Density
associated with a risk of spontaneous miscarriage.
The recent discovery of the presence of fetal DNA in
 LAM Ching Wan
the maternal circulation offers exciting opportunities
 1 January 2007
for the development of safe methods for prenatal
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
assessment based solely on the collection of a blood
sample from the mother.
The
However, as fetal DNA is
system
governing
extracellular
calcium
mixed with a high background of maternal DNA in
homeostasis maintains a stable extracellular calcium
maternal plasma, the number of fetal-specific DNA
concentration so as to ensure continual availability of
markers available has been limited.
Thus, the
calcium ions for their numerous physiological roles.
alternative use of fetal RNA markers was explored.
The calcium-sensing receptor (CASR) functions as a
In this regard, our group has demonstrated that genes
sensor for parathyroid and kidney to determine the
expressed by the placenta are detectable in maternal
extracellular calcium concentration and thus helps to
plasma and are pregnancy-specific.
maintain a stable calcium concentration.
To fully
Patients
appreciate the clinical utility and potential practical
with activating CASR mutations present with
limitation
autosomal
of
the
use
of
circulating
dominant
hypocalcemia
(ADH;
placental-expressed mRNA for prenatal assessment,
OMIM#601198). Through our continuing interests
we have previously studied a number of basic
in studying the molecular basis of genetic diseases in
biological characteristics of such markers.
In the
Hong Kong Chinese, we have identified a Chinese
present study, we propose to extend on the promising
family with 11 family members with ADH but
without CASR mutation and without linkage to the
Faculty of Medicine
198
Dept of Chemical Pathology
CASR locus.
(1) adhesion of human mast cells onto human
The clinical features and biochemical
BEAS-2B bronchial epithelial cells;
findings of this family are identical to caused by
We suggest that ADH in this
(2) expression of chemokines RANTES, MIG, MCP,
family is caused by mutation of a novel gene.
IL-8, IP-10, MDC and TARC in co-cultures of
Based on our experience in using high-density
mast cells and BEAS-2B cells; and
CASR mutations.
in
(3) release of cysteinyl leukotrienes, prostaglandin
mapping disease loci, we propose to perform a
E2 from mast cells, and cell surface expression of
whole-genome linkage analysis for mapping the trait
adhesion molecule ICAM-1, -3 on mast cells and
locus of this ADH family.
Identification of this
BEAS-2B
gene will improve our understanding of the molecular
co-culture.
single-nucleotide
basis
for
polymorphism
regulation
of
microarrays
extracellular
calcium
2.
cells
Relationship
upon
between
their
interaction
in
the
activation
of
concentration; the insights gained will provide new
intracellular signaling molecules ERK, JNK, p38
leads for finding drugs for clinical disorders related to
MAPK, JAK-STAT, PI3K-AKT and NF-ΚB with
calcium metabolism.
the adhesion and expression of ICAM-1, -3, and
(CU06435)
release of chemokines, cysteinyl leukotrienes and
prostaglandin E2 in co-cultures of mast cells and
BEAS-2B cells.
Adhesion between Mast Cells and Epithelial Cells:
3.
Regulatory Mechanisms for the Release of
Chemokines,
Cysteinyl
Leukotrienes
Specific inhibitors of ERK, JNK, p38 MAPK,
JAK-STAT, PI3K-AKT and NF-KB on adhesion,
and
expression of ICAM-1, -3, and the release of
Prostaglandin in Allergic Inflammation
chemokines,
 LAM Wai Kei Christopher

cysteinyl
leukotrienes
and
prostaglandin E2 in co-cultures of mast cells and
WONG Chun
BEAS-2B cells.
Kwok
This basic study should advance our knowledge on
 1 January 2007
the immunopathogenesis of mast cell- mediated
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
allergic inflammation, and provide a biochemical
Allergic diseases such as allergic asthma have been
basis for the development of a new treatment strategy
prevalent and increasing in Hong Kong and
of interrupting mast cell-epithelial cell interaction in
worldwide.
allergy.
Mast cells are the principal effector
cells of IgE-mediated hypersensitivity.
(CU06434)
Activated
airway epithelial cells are potent sources of cytokines
and chemokines.
The interaction of human mast
Activation of Human Eosinophils by Mast
cells with lung fibroblasts can induce the release of
Cell-derived Chymase: Implication in Allergic
inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in co-culture.
Inflammation
This project proposes to study the following using
 LAM Wai Kei Christopher
co-culture of human mast cells and bronchial
epithelial cells:
1.

WONG Chun
Kwok
Effects of mast cell activators SCF and TNF-α
 1 March 2007
on:
199
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Chemical Pathology
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Study of Patterns of Drugs of Abuse in New
Grants)
Territories East Cluster Drug of Abuse Clinic
Using Conventional and New Technologies
Allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, asthma and
atopic
dermatitis
are
associated
degranulation of mast cells.
with
the
 LAM Wai Kei Christopher
Release of different
TANG Alan*
cytokines, chemokines and other inflammatory
upon
The
degranulation.
particular,
eosinophils: ( 1 ) (i) apoptosis; (ii) induction of
youngsters.
(iii) cell surface expression of adhesion molecules
urine
(CD54) and leukocyte function-associated antigen
young
population.
Traditionally, psychiatrists rely very
samples
monitoring.
eosinophil
for
diagnosis
and
therapeutic
However, existing methods using
immunoassay
degranulation for the release of eosinophilic cationic
and
high-performance
liquid
chromatography with ultraviolet detector (HPLC-UV)
protein (ECP) and superoxides. (2) Relationship
for the detection of abused drugs have many
between chymase mediated activation of intracellular
limitations including lack of sensitivity, specificity,
signaling molecules extracellular signal-regulated
and the requirement of a known drug library or pure
protein kinase (ERK), c-Jun amino-terminal kinase
standards
(JNK), p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p38
for
investigation,
MAPK), Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator
(JAK-STAT)
our
much on the detection of these substances in patients’
such as intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1
factor
amongst
contaminants that impose additional health hazards to
(GRO)-α, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-l;
transcription
increasing
manufacturing practice may introduce impurities or
and chemokines IL-8, growth related oncogene
of
and
Manufacture of the abused drugs without good
inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α
(iv)
pattern
control, and clinical management of this problem, in
following effects of mast cell-derived chymase on
and
changing
in a community-wide concern for better detection,
The project will study the
CD1la/CD18);
rapidly
psychotropic substances in Hong Kong have resulted
between mast cells and eosinophils have not been
(LFA,
HO Chung
prevalence of abusing conventional and novel
Immunological mechanisms for the interaction
elucidated clearly.

 Beat Drugs Fund
mast cell granules, which plays certain roles in
inflammation
TSUI Kam Chi

 1 May 2007
Mast-cell
specific protease chymase is a major component in
allergic
CHAN Ho Ming
Shun  LAW Lap Kay
mediators by mast cells activates other immune
effector cells to elicit allergic symptoms.


novel
drugs
leading
to
ultra-performance
phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT, and nuclear
time-of-flight
factor-κB (NF-κB) with apoptosis, degranulation,
(UPLC-TOF/MS)
expression of cytokines, chemokines and adhesion
and
chromatography
spectrometric
allow
the
Recent advances in
liquid
mass
hinders
mis-diagnosis
under-reporting of the problem.
and
that
target
technique
screening
and
confirmation of conventional as well as novel drugs
molecules of eosinophils.
without the need of pure standard as well as
(MD06690)
improved
sensitivity
and
specificity.
These
advantages will greatly enhance the detection rate of
conventional and novel drugs.
Faculty of Medicine
200
Dept of Chemical Pathology
(MD06983)
Development of an Accurate Blood Test for the
Detection and Monitoring of Hepatocellular
Carcinoma
Investigation into the Possible Passage of DNA
from Plasma into Urine Using a Sex-Mismatched
 LO Yuk Ming Dennis
Bone Marrow Transplantation Model

CHAN Kwan Chee
DING Chunming (Stanley Ho CEID)
 LO Yuk Ming Dennis


CHAN
Lik Yuen Henry (Medicine & Therapeutics)
CHIK Ki Wai
(Paediatrics)
LAI Bo San Paul (Surgery)



MOK Shu Kam
Tony (Clinical Oncology)
 1 August 2006
 1 September 2006
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
 Innovation and Technology Support Programme,
Recently much interest has been focused on the
ITF, Innovation & Technology Commission
biology and diagnostic applications of cell-free DNA
in plasma.
One group of investigators (Botezatu et
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is particularly
al) have made an interesting suggestion that a
prevalent in Hong Kong and China because of the
proportion of plasma DNA might pass through the
high chronic hepatitis carrier rate in our locality.
kidney barrier and may become detectable in the
Unfortunately only a small proportion of the HCC
urine, the so-called transrenal DNA hypothesis.
In
patients are qualified for curative intent therapies at
particular, these investigators have presented data
presentation because HCC is typically asymptomatic
showing that fetal DNA can be detected in the urine
until an advanced stage.
of pregnant women and oncogene mutations from
strong clinical demand for an accurate marker for the
colorectal cancer can be detected in the urine of such
early detection of HCC.
cancer patients. While some investigators were able
extensively
to replicate these findings, controversy starts to arise
fetoprotein, is only raised in half of the HCC patients.
when other researchers were unable to reproduce
In this project, we propose to develop a new marker
these results. The potential importance of transrenal
for the detection and monitoring of HCC based on the
DNA with regard to development of non-invasive
detection of tumor-derived aberrantly methylated
molecular diagnostics and its biological implications
DNA. Furthermore, the proposed technology can
has prompted us to further explore this phenomenon.
be applied for the detection of virtually all types of
In a previous study, our group has shown that in
cancers.
sex-mismatched bone marrow transplantation (BMT),
pioneered researches on the diagnostic applications
the recipient’s plasma takes on the ‘gender’ of the
of circulating nucleic acids for cancer detection and
donor.
prenatal diagnosis.
This
observation
suggests
that
used
HCC
Therefore, there is a
However, the most
marker,
serum
alpha
Over the last decade, our group has
This project would further
haematopoietic cells are the predominant source of
consolidate the position of Hong Kong in the arena of
plasma DNA in this model. We hypothesize that
biotechnology research.
this BMT system would be a powerful system for
(MD06754)
studying transrenal DNA.
(CU06436)
Development
of
Placental-specific
Reference
Transcripts in Maternal Plasma
201
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Chemical Pathology
 LO Yuk Ming Dennis

(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
 TANG Leung Sang Nelson
LAU Tze Kin
HO CHAN

LEUNG Tse
Suzanne (Community and Family Medicine)

Ngong (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)  CHIU Wai
TO Ka Fai (Anatomical & Cellular Pathology)

Kwun Rossa  TSUI Bo Yin Nancy
YEO Winnie (Clinical Oncology)


CHU Chiu
Wing Winnie (Diagnostic Radiology & Organ
 29 June 2007
Imaging)
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct

WOO
Jean
(Medicine
&
Therapeutics)
Grants)
 1 January 2007
Non-invasive prenatal detection of fetal trisomy 21
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
could potentially be achieved by measuring the
maternal
plasma
concentration
of
a
Blood level of IGF1 is influenced by both genetic and
placental
expressed mRNA which is pregnancy-specific and
environmental factors.
transcribed from chromosome 21. Theoretically, an
reduces blood IGF1 concentration.
elevation of the chromosome-21 derived mRNA
hand, expression of IGF1 is also genetically
would be expected in trisomic pregnancies due to
programmed.
transcription of the extra copy of the gene. However,
(up to 70%) of IGF-1 between sibs and twins had
this method has been shown to demonstrate large
been demonstrated.
degrees of overlap in the plasma placental mRNA
bioactivity of IGF1 is determined by some, yet to
concentrations between the trisomic and the euploid
define, functional polymorphisms in the IGF1
pregnancies. We hypothesized that this overlap was
promoter, which affects the expression of IGF1 gene
due to a wide distribution in the transcript
and in turn, its production and blood concentration,
concentration as a result of the biological variation in
and related intermediate phenotypes.
plasma RNA abundance among different individuals.
As the roles of regulatory elements (such as
To improve the performance of the test, we propose to
transcription factor binding sites) and sequence
control for such individual variation by normalizing
polymorphisms in promoter of IGF1 in regulation of
the level of the chromosome-21 derived mRNA with
blood IGF1 level was not fully understood.
a reference transcript.
In this study, we plan to
Therefore, we proposed (A) To define the functional
study three potential placental-specific reference
polymorphisms in the human IGF1 promoters (B) To
transcripts in maternal plasma.
correlate the functional polymorphisms with two
We also plan to
For example, malnutrition
On the other
A remarkable degree of heritability
Therefore, we hypothesize that
investigate the chromosome-21 derived transcript
clinical endophenotypes
levels in maternal plasma of the trisomy 21 and the
(CU06437)
euploid pregnancies with our normalisation strategy.
(MD06485)
Activation of Human Eosinophils by a Novel T
Helper Type 2 Cytokine IL-33: Implication in
Search for Functional Polymorphisms in IGF1
Allergic Inflammation
Promoters and the Link with Intermediate
 WONG
Phenotypes of Breast Cancer in a Cohort of 800
Christopher
Women
Faculty of Medicine
Chun
202
Kwok

LAM
Wai
Kei
Dept of Chemical Pathology
 25 June 2007
intervention for the treatment of Th2 mediated allergic
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
diseases such as allergic asthma.
(MD06371)
Grants)
Allergic diseases such as allergic asthma and allergic
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
rhinitis are prevalent and have been increasing in
for more details of the following ongoing research
Hong Kong. Allergic asthma is characterized by the
at the department:
activation,
accumulation
and
degranulation
eosinophils in inflammatory sites.
of
Interleukin
Edition
Title/Investigators
(IL)-33 is the most recently discovered T helper (Th)2
cytokine which cause severe pathological changes in
2004-05 Serial Analysis of the Molecular Size of
the lungs and gastrointestinal tract, including
Plasma Epstein-Barr Virus and Genomic
eosinophilic and mononuclear infiltrates, increased
DNA
mucus production, and epithelial cell hyperplasia and
Nasopharyngeal
hypertrophy. We plan to study the following: (1)
(CU04276)
Effect of IL-33 on (i) apoptosis; (ii) induction of
 CHAN Kwan Chee
during
Radiotherapy
Carcinoma
inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α
Dennis
and chemokine IL-8, growth related oncogene
Cheung
(Clinical
(GRO)-α, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-l
LEUNG
Sing
and
Oncology)
regulated
upon
activation
normal
T-cell

in
Patients
LO Yuk Ming
CHAN Anthony Tak

Oncology)
Fai

(Clinical
expressed and secreted (RANTES); (iii) cell surface
expression of adhesion molecules such as intercellular
2005-06 Investigation
of
the
Integrity
of
adhesion molecule (ICAM)-l (CD54) and leukocyte
Circulating Cell-Free RNA in the Plasma
function-associated antigen (LFA, CDlla/CD18); and
of Pregnant Women (MD05648)
(iv) cell migration of human eosinophils. (2)
 CHAN Kwan Chee

LO Yuk Ming
Relationship between IL-33-mediated activation of
Dennis
intracellular
(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
signaling
signal-regulated
protein
molecules
kinase
extracellular
(ERK),
c-Jun
LEUNG

Tse
Ngong

LAU
Tze Kin (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
amino-terminal kinase (JNK), p38 mitogen activated
protein kinase (p38 MAPK), Janus kinase-signal
2003-04 Non-Invasive Prenatal Diagnosis of β
transducer and activator of transcription factor
-thalassaemia through Maternal Plasma
(JAK-STAT),
Analysis: A Multi-Centre Collaborative
phosphoinositide
3-kinase
(PI3K)-AKT, and nuclear factor (NF)-ΚB with
Study (CU03395)
apoptosis, cell migration, expression of cytokines,
 CHIU Wai Kwun Rossa
chemokines and adhesion molecules of eosinophils.
Chong*
This study will advance our knowledge on the
LAU
immunopathogenesis upon the interaction of IL-33
Gynaecology)


CHAN Li
CHUI David H.K.*
Tze
Kin

(Obstetrics

&
LEUNG Tse Ngong
and eosinophils in allergic inflammation and provide a
biochemical basis for the development of therapeutic
203
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Chemical Pathology
(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

2005-06 Adhesion
LO
between
Mast
Cells
and
Epithelial Cells: Regulatory Mechanisms
Yuk Ming Dennis
for the Release of Chemokines and
Cysteinyl
2004-05 Quantitative Aberrations in Circulating
Leukotrienes
in
Allergic
RNA in Maternal Plasma: Clinical and
Inflammation (MD05806)
Biological Implications in Preeclampsia
 LAM Wai Kei Christopher  WONG
(CU04277)
Chun Kwok
 CHIU Wai Kwun Rossa
Ming Dennis
(Obstetrics
LO Yuk
2001-02 Development of Genomic Strategies for
LAU Tze Kin

&

Gynaecology)
the Non-Invasive Detection of Down

LEUNG Tse Ngong (Obstetrics &
Syndrome (MD01862)
Gynaecology)
 LO Yuk Ming Dennis
Kwun Rossa
2005-06 Investigation
Relationship
of
the
between
Quantitative
Fetal
LAU Tze Kin

Nucleic
2003-04 A Centre for the Study of Fetal Nucleic
Growth (CU05434)
Acids in Maternal Plasma (MD03672)
 CHIU Wai Kwun Rossa
Ming Dennis
 LO Yuk Ming Dennis
LO Yuk
Gynaecology)
Gynaecology)
(Obstetrics
Michelle
TSUI Hang Yuet
(Obstetrics

LEUNG Tse Ngong (Obstetrics &

Gynaecology)

LAU Tze

Kin (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
LAU Tze Kin

&

LEUNG Tse Ngong (Obstetrics &
&
WONG Hing Nam

&
Gynaecology)#
CANTOR Charles*
Gynaecology)


HUANG H M
Tim*  CHIU Wai Kwun Rossa
2004-05 Global Gene-Expression Analysis and
Functional
CHIU Wai
(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Acids in Maternal Plasma and Fetal
(Obstetrics

Clustering
in
2004-05 Development of Maspin as an Epigenetic
Sporadic
Fetal DNA Marker in Maternal Plasma
Basal-Cell Carcinoma of the Skin in
for All Pregnancies (CU04279)
Chinese
 LO Yuk Ming Dennis
Using
High-Density
Oligonucleotide Arrays (CU04278)
Kwun Rossa
 LAM Ching Wan
(Obstetrics

&

CHIU Wai
LAU Tze Kin
Gynaecology)

LEUNG Tse Ngong (Obstetrics &
2005-06 Whole
Genome
Scan
of
Genetics
Gynaecology)
Susceptibility for Hepatitis B Carriers

CHIM Siu Chung
Stephen (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
(MD05482)
 LAM Ching Wan

2004-05 Investigation on the Origin, Molecular
CHAN Kay
Characteristics and Clearance of Plasma
Sheung Paul (Microbiology)
Nucleic
Acids
in
Nasopharyngeal
Carcinoma Patients (MD04617)
Faculty of Medicine
204
Dept of Chemical Pathology
 LO Yuk Ming Dennis
Kwan Chee
Cheung

Activity
CHAN
(Clinical
Oncology)
Lymphocytes
 PANESAR Nirmal Singh

LEUNG Sing Fai (Clinical Oncology)

Mouse
(MD05931)
CHAN Anthony Tak

in

CHAN
Kam Wing
LO Kwok Wai (Anatomical &
2005-06 Genetic
Cellular Pathology)
Studies
of
Tuberculosis:
Analysis of Tuberculosis Susceptibility
2005-06 Methylation Analysis of the RASSF1A
Genes in the Chemokine-Genes Cluster
Gene in the Placenta and in the Plasma of
Region of Chromosome 17 in Chinese
Pregnant Women (CU05437)
(MD05978)
 LO Yuk Ming Dennis
Chung
Stephen
Gynaecology)
Rossa

 TANG Leung Sang Nelson
CHIM Siu

(Obstetrics
&

Jenefer M. Blackwell*
LEUNG Tse Ngong

(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

2005-06 Molecular
LO
Epidemiology
Kwok Wai (Anatomical & Cellular
5a-reductase
Pathology)
Metabolic
WONG Hing Nam

LEUNG

Chi Chiu*  TAM Cheuk Ming*
LAU Tze Kin (Obstetrics &
Gynaecology)
CHAN
Chiu Yeung Raphael (Microbiology)
CHIU Wai Kwun


and
of
Other
Genes
in
Steroid
Androgen
Hepatocellular
Carcinoma among Chinese Male Patients
(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)#
(CU05439)
 TANG Leung Sang Nelson
2005-06 Centre for Research into Circulating

CHAN
Fetal Nucleic Acids (MD05394)
Ka Leung Francis (Medicine &
 LO Yuk Ming Dennis
Therapeutics)
Kwun Rossa


CHIU Wai
MicroRNAs
of
in
2005-06 The Association of Pharmacogenetics
Plasma
and Chemotherapy-Induced Toxicities in
(MD05440)
Breast
 LO Yuk Ming Dennis
Chung
Rossa


Cancer
Patients
Receiving
Chemotherapy (MD05817)
CHIM Siu
&
 TANG Leung Sang Nelson
CHIU Wai Kwun
Winnie (Clinical Oncology)
Stephen
Gynaecology)


LAI Bo San Paul (Surgery)
Fetal-Specific
Maternal
CHAN Lik Yuen
Henry (Medicine & Therapeutics)
LAU Tze Kin
(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
2005-06 Identification

(Obstetrics

YEO
Eosinophils
and
LAU Tze Kin (Obstetrics &
Gynaecology)

2004-05 Adhesion
DING Chunming
(Stanley Ho CEID)

Epithelial
LEUNG Tse
between
Cells:
Its
Regulatory
Mechanism for Eosinophil Degranulation
Ngong (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
and the Expression of Cytokines and
Leukotrienes in Allergic Inflammation
2005-06 Effects of Glucocorticoids and Stress on
Telomere
Length
and
(CU04281)
Telomerase
205
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Chemical Pathology
 WONG Chun Kwok

Immune Response and Exacerbation of
LAM Wai
Allergic Inflammation (MD05721)
Kei Christopher
 WONG Chun Kwok
2005-06 Intracellular
Mechanisms
Signal
Transduction
Regulating
Receptor-Mediated
Kei Christopher
Toll-Like
Activation
of
Eosinophils: A Link between Innate
Faculty of Medicine
206

LAM Wai
Dept of Clinical Oncology
inducible factor-1 inhibitors) in NPC; (2) the effect of
RESEARCH PROJECTS
combining hypoxia targeting agent with radiation in
NPC; and (3) the molecular interactions of hypoxia
Targeting Hypoxia and the Epidermal Growth
and anti-EGFR agents in NPC. Eventually, we aim
Factor
to: (a) develop novel strategies of combining agents
Receptor
(EGFR)
Pathways
in
targeting hypoxia /EGFR pathways with radiation in
Nasopharyngeal Cancer
NPC;
 CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung

HUI Pun

MA Buig Yue Brigette

(b)
identify
tissue
biomarkers
as
pharmacodynamic endpoints for future clinical study.

(CU06442)
SUNG Lan (Hong Kong Cancer Institute)  TAO
Qian
and
HARRIS
[An
Adrian L*
Open-label
Study
of
Bevacizumab
(AVASTIN®) Plus Taxane Monotherapy or in
 1 January 2007
Combination for the First-line Treatment of
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Patients with Locally Recurrent or Metastatic
Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) is the most common
Breast Cancer (ATHENA-Avastin THErapy) for
head and neck cancer in Hong Kong and southern
Advanced Breast Cancer]
China.
Our group has previously demonstrated
 HO Wing Ming
improved survival when cisplatin is combined with

YEO Winnie

CHAN Tung
Ching*
concurrent radiation in the primary treatment of NPC.
We have studied the expression of hypoxia markers
 15 January 2007
in NPC biopsies and established the clinical
 Roche Hong Kong Limited
significance of tumor hypoxia in relation to treatment
outcomes after radiotherapy in NPC.
This study is a multi-center study with 400 centres
We further
the
from worldwide. The primary objective is to assess
mechanisms of hypoxia induced gene expressions in
the safety profile and efficacy of bevacizumab when
NPC cell lines.
combined
characterized
the
hypoxia
pathways
and
We have studied the prognostic
with
taxane
monotherapy
or
in
significance of epidermal growth factor receptor
combination as first line treatment of patients with
(EGFR) expression in NPC, and established the
locally recurrent or metastatic breast cancer.
anti-tumor effect of cetuximab, a monoclonal
(MD06742)
antibody against EGFR, in NPC cell lines and in a
phase 2 clinical study in NPC patients.
Targeted
Based on our ground work on hypoxia and EGFR, we
Downregulation
propose that both the hypoxia and EGFR pathways
Tyrosine
are important molecular targets for development of
Treatment
novel therapeutic strategies in NPC.
Carcinoma (NPC)
In this
Inhibition
of
Kinase,
of
of
Another
EGFR:
Metastatic
c-Met
Induced
Key
Receptor
Implication
for
Nasopharyngeal
proposal, we will study: (1) the activity and changes
 LUI Wai Yan Vivian
in underlying molecular biomarkers of novel hypoxia

CHAN Anthony Tak
Cheung
targeting agents (including tirapazamine and hypoxia
207
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Clinical Oncology
 1 June 2007
treatment of NPC (and potentially other malignancies
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
also).
(MD06621)
Grants)
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is prevalent in
A Randomized, Open-label Phase II Study
Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.
Although it is
Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of FOLFOX-4
rather curable at early stages, the highly invasive and
plus Cetuximab versus UFOX plus Cetuximab as
metastatic nature of NPC contributes to metastasis
First-line Therapy in Subject with Metastatic
and recurrence with high fatality rate.
Colorectal Cancer
Mechanisms
contributing to NPC metastasis are largely unknown.
Studies indicate that c-Met and epidermal growth
 MA Buig Yue Brigette

HO Wing Ming*
factor receptor (EGFR), two important receptor
HUI Edwin P*
tyrosine kinases, may be involved.
Linda*  CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung
These two
proto-oncogenes can cause dysregulated growth,
invasion and metastasis.

CHAN Lam*


LEUNG
 1 June 2007
In NPC, c-Met and EGFR
 Merck KGaA
are frequently overexpressed, clinically associated
with advanced disease and poor survival in patients.
Oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy regimens such as
Activation of c-Met or EGFR can induce NPC
FOLFOX
proliferation and invasion in vitro.
Recently, we
Oxaliplatin & leucovorin) & UFOX (contains oral
demonstrated that targeted c-Met inhibition (by c-Met
UFT & oxaliplatin) have proven activity in metastatic
siRNA) resulted in significant EGFR downregulation
colorectal cancer (mCRC), & Cetuximab is a
(70-80%), accompanied by dramatic inhibition of
molecular-targeted agent that may enhance the effect
NPC proliferation and invasiveness in vitro. This
of chemotherapy.
novel finding indicates that EGFR expression is
for the treatment of mCRC in Hong Kong.
potentially regulated by c-Met in NPC and the
study evaluates the effect of combining cetuxmab
subsequent EGFR downregulation may represent an
with either FOLFOX or UFOX, the use of oral UFT
additional
potentially may avoid the inconvenience of using
mechanism
contributing
to
the
(contains
infusional
5-Fluorouracil,
Most of these drugs are approved
This
effectiveness of c-Met targeting in NPC. Here, we
intravenous infusion of 5-Fluorouracil.
propose to: 1) study the mechanism of EGFR
who had previous treatment with chemotherapy or
regulation (transcriptional or post-transcriptional
agents similar to cetuximab are excluded.
levels) by c-Met in NPC; 2) examine the effects of
industry-sponsored international randomized phase II
c-Met
NPC
study will enrol a target of approximately 400
proliferation and metastasis; and 3) compare the
patients with previously untreated mCRC. Subjects
efficacy of c-Met and EGFR targeting in NPC cells.
will be randomized in a ratio of 1:1 to 1 of 2 possible
We
EGFR
study arm: Group A: FOLFOX + cetuximab; Group
expression in NPC and c-Met targeting results in the
B: UFOX + cetuximab. Both efficacy and safety
inhibition of EGFR-mediated biological processes in
data will be collected.
NPC.
treatment
targeting
hypothesize
on
that
EGFR-mediated
c-Met
regulates
This study has important mechanistic and
clinical implication on tumorigenesis, metastasis and
Faculty of Medicine
is
Patients
This
Radiological response to
evaluated
every
8
weeks.
Randomization will be stratified into low, medium
208
Dept of Clinical Oncology
and high risk groups, & treatment will continue until
located upstream to Raf such as the EGFR.
if
Therefore, Raf/ MEK proteins represent novel targets
patients
experience
intolerable toxicity.
disease
progression
or
After study completion,
in NPC that warrant evaluation.
AZD6244 is a
subjects will be followed-up every 3 months for
non-competitive MEK inhibitor that is currently
progression and survival.
under phase I clinical evaluation in solid tumors
Tissue samples may be
obtained for pharmacodynamic studies.
outside Hong Kong, and the aim of this proposal is to
(MD06478)
evaluate MEK as a new therapeutic target for NPC
and introduce this new therapy for local patients.
Effect of AZD6244 Alone or in Combination with
This study will determine the anti-cancer properties
Cytotoxic Chemotherapy or Epidermal Growth
of this MEK inhibitor in NPC cell lines, and its effect
Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor in
on NPC cell growth when combined with cytotoxic
Nasopharyngeal Cell Lines
chemotherapy or EGFR inhibitors in vitro.
The
longterm goal of this project is to provide the basis
for future clinical studies using this new class of
 MA Buig Yue Brigette  LUI Wai Yan Vivian 
drugs in NPC. (Note: AZD6244 is provided as part
HUI Pun  CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung
of an unfunded project initiated by the Cancer
 30 June 2007
Therapy
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Evaluation
Program,
National
Cancer
Institute, Bethesda, USA.)
Grants)
(MD06867)
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a common
cancer in Hong Kong, and new therapeutic target is
A Phase 3 Randomized Study to Evaluate Survival
needed for patients with recurrent or metastatic
of Patients Treated with Talaporifin Sodium
disease that often progress despite conventional
(LS11) and Interstitial Light Emitting Diodes
chemotherapy due to drug resistance. Our previous
(LED) as Compared to the Standard of Care
studies have shown that inhibition of the epidermal
Therapies in the Treatment of Unresectable
growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway is a
Hepatocellular Carcinoma
promising strategy against NPC.
However, research
 MOK Shu Kam Tony
have shown that targeting the EGFR pathway alone

LEE Sing Fun Paul
may not be sufficient due to cross-talk with other
(Diagnostic Radiology & Organ Imaging)
signaling pathways, such that co-inhibition of EGFR
Bo San Paul (Surgery)
and other signaling pathways may augment growth
CHAN Lam*
inhibitory
effects
on
cancer
cells.
The


LAI
DU Yingchun*

 1 November 2006
mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)
 Light Sciences Oncology Inc
signaling protein is a key downstream protein of the
RAS/RAF pathway, which is involved in the
The study is a multi-center study with a total target
regulation of cell growth and survival.
The
number of 200. The aim of the study is to assess the
Ras/Raf/MEK pathway is deregulated in cancers due
survival of patients treated with Litx versus standard
to the presence of activating Ras or Raf gene
of cancer therapies in the treatment of unresectable
mutation, or overexpression of signaling proteins
209
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Clinical Oncology
Hepatocellular Carcinoma and demonstrate the safety
help to identify more biomarkers for its diagnosis
of Litz therapy.
and molecular targets for better therapeutics. 3p21
(MD06898)
alteration is one of the most frequently detected
genetic alterations in NPC, indicating the presence of
Double-Blind,
critical tumor suppressor genes (TSGs). Previously,
Multi-Centre Parallel-Group Study to Assess the
we identified a novel 3p21.3 gene, ZMYND10, as a
A
Phase
Efficacy
III,
of
Randomised,
ZD6474
(ZACTIMA
TM
)
candidate TSG being frequently inactivated by both
Versus
Erlotinib (TARCEVA®) in Patients With Locally
epigenetic
Advanced or Metastatic (Stage IIIB – IV)
ZMYND10 belongs to a group of proteins containing
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) after
the
Failure
domain which are involved in transcriptional
of
at
Least
One
Prior
Cytotoxic
and
genetic
highly-conserved
mechanisms
MYND-type
in
zinc
NPC.
finger
regulation and implicated in tumorigenesis, including
Chemotherapy
BS69/ZMYND11 which interacts with EBV proteins
 MOK Shu Kam Tony

LAM Kwok Chi
EBNA2 and LMPI.

In this proposal, we intend to further characterize the
LEUNG Kam Suet Linda
molecular functions of this novel protein in the
 10 January 2007
pathogenesis of NPC. I will use artificial expression
 AstraZeneca Hong Kong Limited
of
ZMYND10
in
NPC
tumor
cells
through
It is a Phase III multi-centered study. The primary
transfection to study the impact of ZMYND10
objective of this study is to evaluate progression free
expression on NPC cell growth, proliferation, cell
survival for ZD6474 in patients with locally
cycle and apoptosis, colony formation and migration.
advanced or metastatic (Stage IIIB - IV) Non-Small
It is expected that this study will provide more insight
Cell Lung Cancer.
into the molecular functions of ZMYND10 in normal
(MD06416)
cell physiology and the tumorigenesis of NPC as well
as other carcinomas with alterations of this novel
Function Characterization of an Epigenetically
TSG.
Inactivated Tumor Suppressor Gene ZMYND10
(MD06403)
in the Pathogenesis of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Value of CK20 mRNA and CEA mRNA in the
 TAO Qian

CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung
Non-Plasma Portion of the Blood for Diagnosis

and Monitoring of Colorectal Cancer
POON Fan Fong#
 1 March 2007
 WONG Sze Chuen Cesar  CHAN Anthony Tak
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Cheung  MA Buig Yue Brigette
Grants)
 1 August 2006
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is one of the
 The Hong Kong Anti-Cancer Society - Cancer
leading cancers in Hong Kong, and strongly
associated
with
Epstein-Barr
virus
Research Grant
(EBV).
Molecular studies on its pathogenic mechanisms will
Faculty of Medicine
210
Dept of Clinical Oncology
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common
have successfully opened up a new circulating
cancer in Hong Kong.1 The incidence rate of CRC in
mRNA scenario for detection and monitoring of CRC
the young population (<46 years of age at diagnosis)
by detecting mRNA in non-plasma portion of the
is 4 times the rate in other countries such as the
blood samples.
1
This study plans to evaluate the
United States, Scotland and Japan. As detection and
clinical applications of CEA mRNA and CK20
treatment of this cancer at an early stage can
mRNA in the non-plasma portion of the peripheral
dramatically improve survival, there has been urgent
blood in 4 cohorts and the quantity of blood taken is
demand in developing population-based screening for
8 ml only.
CRC.2 Many methods have been evaluated, such as
(pre-OT) and 50 colorectal adenoma patients
fecal occult blood testing, flexible sigmoidoscopy,
(pre-endoscopy and on first follow-up).
screening colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, and
cohort continues to follow-up the above CRC patients.
barium enema, but they have limited sensitivity,
The 1st follow-up is before home leave, around 5-7
3
days after surgery; the 2nd follow-up should be
specificity,
or
are
invasive
procedures.
The 1st cohort includes 50 CRC patients
The 2nd
Quantification of tumor-derived mRNA in the blood
around 3-4 weeks after surgery at the outpatient clinic;
of
subsequent follow-up visits, around 3 times a year,
cancer
patients
opportunities
4-5
prognosis.
for
has
opened
non-invasive
up
immense
diagnosis
for the period of 2 years after surgery, and thereafter
and
if there is suspicious of relapse.
However, the sensitivity of detection for
consists of other benign colorectal diseases including
carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) mRNA and CK20
6
The 3rd cohort
7
mRNA in CRC patients were only 21% and 27% ,
20 patients each for colitis, piles, colorectal ulcers
respectively and the mononuclear fraction of the
and hyperplastic polyps.
peripheral blood was mainly used for mRNA
other non-colorectal cancers, with 20 patients each of
detection.6-9 In order to improve the sensitivity of
breast
liver
cancer,
detection of CEA mRNA and CK20 mRNA in CRC
pancreaticobiliary cancer and lung cancer.
mRNA
patients, we assayed the CEA mRNA and CK20
is
mRNA in non-plasma portion using quantitative
centrifugation, reverse transcribed to cDNA, and
reverse transcriptase PCR as we recently discovered
assayed for CEA mRNA and CK20 mRNA level
that there were much higher concentration of CEA
using quantitative PCR molecular technique.
mRNA (3-fold more) and CK20 mRNA (4-fold more)
(MD06865)
cancer,
extracted
prostate
from
the
The 4th cohort includes
cancer,
blood
samples
after
in the red blood cell than those in the mononuclear
fraction after centrifugation.
Our preliminary
Prognostic Significance of Plasma b-catenin
results from 35 CRC patients demonstrated that the
mRNA in Patients with Colorectal Cancer
sensitivity of CRC detection can be raised to 75% for
CEA mRNA (median copy numbers: 23180) and
 WONG Sze Chuen Cesar

MA Buig Yue
82% for CK20 mRNA (median copy numbers: 31840)
Brigette
whereas both transcripts were not found in 15
Fung Yee Janet (Surgery)  CHAN Anthony Tak
apparently healthy subjects. Our results, with much
Cheung
higher sensitivity of detection for both CEA mRNA

LAI Bo San Paul (Surgery)

LEE
 1 January 2007
and CK20 mRNA, not only appears to be a promising
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
marker for CRC detection and monitoring, but also
211
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Clinical Oncology
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Most existing prognostic biomarkers of colorectal
cancer (CRC) are limited by their accuracy,
Grants)
inefficiency and impracticality for routine use. Our
As detection and treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC)
recent discovery of circulating β-catenin mRNA in
at an early stage can dramatically improve survival,
the plasma of CRC patients has opened up a new
there has been urgent demand in developing
frontier for non-invasive detection and therapeutic
monitoring of this common cancer.
non-invasive test for CRC detection and monitoring.
This discovery
Quantification of tumor-derived mRNA in the blood
is made possible through our pioneering work on a
of
novel extraction protocol for non-viral plasma mRNA,
patients
opportunities
and enhanced processing with quantitative reverse
transcriptase polymerase chain reaction method.
cancer
for
has
opened
non-invasive
up
immense
diagnosis
and
prognosis. However, the sensitivity of detection for
As
carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) mRNA and CK20
CRC patients with stage IIb-III CRC are at higher
mRNA in CRC patients were only 21% and 27%,
risk of post-operative recurrence for which salvage
respectively in the mononuclear fraction of the blood.
treatment may improve prognosis, our new marker
In order to improve the sensitivity of detection, we
may improve early detection of disease relapse and
assayed the CEA mRNA and CK20 mRNA in
help streamlining patient selection for post-operative
non-plasma portion of the blood using quantitative
therapy. Our pilot study has shown that β-catenin
reverse transcriptase PCR. Our preliminary results
mRNA can clearly discriminate between patients
from 35 CRC patients demonstrated that the
with CRC, adenoma and normal subjects. In this
sensitivity of CRC detection can be raised to 75% for
study, we plan to expand our pilot study and establish
CEA mRNA and 82% for CK20 mRNA whereas
threshold values for determining positive and
both transcripts were not found in 15 apparently
negative predictive values of β-catenin mRNA. We
healthy subjects.
will also prospectively investigate the value of
This study plans to analyze CEA
mRNA and CK20 mRNA in the non-plasma portion
plasma β-catenin mRNA in predicting disease
in 3 cohorts.
recurrence and shorter survival in patients with stage
The 1st cohort includes 40 CRC
patients (pre-OT).
IIb-III CRC following primary resection and post-
The 2nd cohort continues to
follow-up the CRC patients.
operative adjunct therapy, as well as in monitoring
The 1st follow-up is
before home leave, around 5-7 days after surgery; the
response to chemotherapy in patients with metastatic
2nd follow-up should be around 3-4 weeks after
or recurrent CRC.
surgery; subsequent follow-up visits around 3 times a
(CU06448)
year, for the period of 2 years after surgery. The 3rd
cohort includes non-colorectal cancers, with 20
Effectiveness of CEA mRNA and CK20 mRNA in
patients each of breast cancer, liver cancer and lung
the Non-Plasma Portion of the Blood for Diagnosis
cancer.
and Monitoring of Colorectal Cancer
The information got is important for us to
understand their potential in clinical applications.
(MD06434)
 WONG Sze Chuen Cesar  CHAN Anthony Tak
Cheung  MA Buig Yue Brigette
An Open Label International Multi-Center Phase
 1 May 2007
Faculty of Medicine
2 Activity and Safety Study of SU011248 in
212
Dept of Clinical Oncology
Patients
with
Unresectable
 Pfizer Corporation Hong Kong Limited
Hepatocellular
Carcinoma
This is an open label, phase 2 multi-center
international study to be conducted in Asia and
 YEO Winnie  CHAN Lam  HUI Pun
Europe.
 5 July 2006
The primary objective is to evaluate
SU011248 anti-tumor activity in gastric cancer.
 Pfizer Corporation Hong Kong Limited
Sample size is 63 patients.
(MD06915)
SU011248 is an investigational drug that inhibits the
RTKs of the VEGFR, PDGFR, FLT-3, and KIT.
A
HCC is a highly vascular tumor, in which vascular
The
expression
of
III,
Multicenter,
Randomized,
Double-Blind, Active Controlled, Parallel Group
recruitment and invasion greatly contribute to
pathogenesis.
Phase
Study of
vascular
the
Safety and Efficacy of the
Intravenous and Oral Formulations of the
endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors,
Neurokinin-1 Receptor Antagonist, Casopitant
and of other RTKs like the Platelet-Derived Growth
(GW679769) in Combination with Ondansetron
Factor Receptor-®, which are thought to have an
and Dexamethasone for the Prevention of Nausea
important role in HCC angiogenesis, has been
and Vomiting Induced by Moderately Emetogenic
confirmed in this disease. Agents that inhibit the
Chemotherapy. NKV102549
cell signaling pathways may increase the therapeutic
options for patients with HCC in patients with altered
 YEO Winnie  HO Wing Ming*  SUEN Joyce*
liver function, and offer a potential better safety

profile in comparison to chemotherapy agents.
CHAN Lam*

KWAN Wing Hong*

LIEM
Giok Siong
There is therefore the rationale for testing the
multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor SU011248 in
 7 February 2007
patients with unresectable HCC.
 GlaxoSmithKline Limited
This is an open-label, uncontrolled, multi-center,
This Phase III clinical study will assess whether the
Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating the activity, and
safety
of
single-agent
SU011248
in
administration of casopitant (intravenous and oral)
patients
will improve the control of CINV following the
unresectable HCC.
administration
(MD06489)
Advanced/Metastatic
emetogenic
chemotherapeutic (MEC) regimens.
The primary
achieve a complete response (no vomiting/retching
2 Activity and Safety Study of SU011248 in
with
moderately
endpoint will be the proportion of subjects who
An Open Label International Multi-Center Phase
Patients
of
and no use of rescue therapy) over the first 120 hours
Gastric
following the initiation of the first cycle of MEC
Cancer Progressing or Recurring after One Prior
regimen.
Chemotherapy
(MD06553)
 YEO Winnie  LAM Kwok Chi
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel-Group
 5 July 2006
Study
213
Conducted
under
In-house
Blinding
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Clinical Oncology
Conditions to Determine Efficacy and Tolerability
randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatment regimens. For
of
of
control arm which patients will take Aprepitant
Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting
placebos, will receive Ondansetron 8mg as the
Associated
standard antiemetic therapy. Also, patients will be
Aprepitant
for
the
Prevention
Moderately
Emetogenic
allowed to take “rescue therapy” throughout the study
Chemotherapy
for nausea or vomiting.
 YEO Winnie

CHAN Lam*
HO Wing Ming*


LIEM GS*
KWAN Wing Hong*

(MD06910)

SUEN
Joyce*  POON Annette*
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
 1 March 2007
for more details of the following ongoing research
 Merck Sharp & Dohme (Asia) Ltd
at the department:
The study will focus on patients receiving an initial
Edition
Title/Investigators
cycle of Moderately Emetogenic Chemotherapy.
Patients may participate in the study for a total of two
cycles.
2004-05 MVA-EBNA1/LMP2 Vaccine: Phase I
Patient is receiving chemotherapy for more
Trial in Patients with EBV-Positive
than one cycle may opt to participate in an optional
Nasopharyngeal
second cycle during which the patient will receive
(MD04307)
the same antiemetic regimen as per Cycle 1, except
 CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung
Carcinoma
that fosaprepitant (IV prodrug of aprepitant) will be
Pun*
substituted for oral aprepitant on Day 1.
Yue Brigette  TAO Qian
The

CHAN Lam*

(MTA)

HUI
MA Buig
substitution of fosaprepitant in the optional second
cycle will allow for the collection of additional data
2004-05 EMR 62 202-013, Open, Randomized,
in the Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting
Controlled, Multicenter Phase III Study
(CINV) patient population.
Preparation of IV
Comparing 5FU/FA plus Cetuximab vs
fosaprepitant will be done by an unblinded
5FU/FA plus Irinotecan as First-Line
pharmacist at each study site.
Treatment for Epidermal Growth Factor
Study drug
administration on treatment Days 2 and 3 will be
Receptor-Expressing
given orally as in Cycle 1.
Colorectal Cancer (MD04747)
Approximately 610 patients worldwide will be
 CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung
randomized into the study.
About 12 months is
Buig Yue Brigette
allotted for enrollment of all patients. The duration

Metastatic


MA
HO Wing Ming
CHAN Lam
of the study, from enrollment of the first patient into
the study (Cycle 1 Prestudy Visit) to exit of the last
2004-05 A Randomized, Three Arm Multinational
patient from the study (Cycle 2 Follow-Up Visit),
Phase
will be around 1 year.
Bevacizumab
Patients will be stratified by gender, provided
Combination with Either Intermittent
inclusion and exclusion criteria are fulfilled, each
Capecitabine
patient will be given a single allocation number and
Faculty of Medicine
214
III
Study
to
Investigate
(q3w
or
q2w)
plus
in
Oxapliplatin
Dept of Clinical Oncology
(XELOX)(q3w) or Fluouracil/Leucovorin
2005-06 A
with Oxaliplatin (FOLFOX-4) versus
Phase
II
Study
of
Concurrent
FOLFOX-f Regimen Alone as Adjuvant
Cetuximab-Cisplatin and Radiotherapy in
Chemotherapy
the
in
Colon
Carcinoma
of
 CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung
Buig Yue Brigette


 CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung
MA
HO Wing Ming
CHAN Lam
III
Trial
of
HUI Edwin P*
LAM Kwok C*

CHAN Lam*


LEUNG Sing Fai  CHIU K W* 
XU Wei*
Tirapazamine
FONG Tik Pui Daniel*
versus
Chun*
Patients with Advanced Head and Neck
TAO Qian
Cancer (MD05556)
ZEE
Kwok Hung

HUI Pun
YUAN
WONG Sze Chuen Cesar

Joh, Sung Wook*

Chung
Ying

Benny
MA Buig Yue

LAM Kwok Chi



(Community and Family Medicine)
YU
2005-06 A Multi-Center Prospective Randomized
Brigette  KAM Koon Ming Michael


KAM K Michael*

Concomitant Radiation and Cisplatin in
 CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung

KWAN Wing H*
Concomitant Radiation, Cisplatin, and
(SR259075)
MA


Randomized

Buig Yue Brigette
LIN Marie MC*
2005-06 Phase
Advanced
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (MD05709)
(MD04635)

Treatment
Phase II Trial to Determine the Benefit of

Adjuvant
CHAN Lam
Chemotherapy
Gemcitabine
and
Using
Cisplatin
in
2005-06 A Single Arm Phase IV Study to Assess
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Patients with
Efficacy and Safety of Bevacizumab in
Residual EBV DNA Following Primary
Combination
Radiotherapy with or without Concurrent
with
Irinotecan
and
Infusional 5-Fluorouracil/Folinic Acid
Cisplatin (MD05706)
Regimens as First Line Treatment for
 CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung
Patients
with
Meatastatic
Colorectal
Buig Yue Brigette
Cancer (MD05590)
LEUNG Sing Fai
 CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung
Buig Yue Brigette



MA
HUI Pun*

LEE Albert*




CHAN V*  HO Wing Ming*
MA
HO Wing Ming
2005-06 Cancer
WONG Herman*  LI Wa
Patients
with
Fever
and
Neutropenia: A Prospective Evaluation of
2005-06 Novel
Epigenetic
Nasopharyngeal
Demethylation
Therapy
towards
Carcinoma
Using
Agents
and
Risk Assessment Tools and Infectious
Etiology in Hong Kong (MD05773)
 HUI Pun
Histone

CHAN Anthony Tak
Deacetylase Inhibitors (CU05443)
Cheung
 CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung  TAO
YEO Winnie
Qian

HUI Pun

Brigette
MA Buig Yue
Brigette


MOK Shu Kam Tony
MA Buig Yue
LAI Ming Po (Centre for
Clinical Trials)
215



ZEE Chung Ying
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Clinical Oncology
Benny (Community
and
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Lines
Family
(MD04636)
Medicine)  MAK So Shan*
 MA Buig Yue Brigette
2000-01 Phase
III
Randomized
Multicenter

Comparatives Study of Peginterferon

TAO Qian
CHAN Anthony Tak Cheung

YEO Winnie  MOK Shu Kam Tony
alpha2a vs. Roferon-A for the Treatment
of Patients with Recently Diagnosed
2005-06 Therapeutic
Targeting
of
Epidermal
Chronic Phase Chronic Myelogenous
Growth
Factor
Receptor
Leukemia (CML) not Previously Treated
Tyrosine
Kinase
with
with Interferon (MD20042)
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma –Evaluation
 LEI Ieng Kit Kenny

of
LEUNG Wai
Molecular
(EGFR)
Gefitinib
in
Biomarkers
of
Gefitinib-sensitivity in Cell Lines and
Tong Thomas#  HUI Pun
Tumor Biopsies (CU05445)
 MA Buig Yue Brigette
2005-06 Evaluation of Novel Epigenetic Markers
for
Nasopharyngeal
Carcinoma
Sze Chuen Cesar
(MD05316)

TAO Qian
TAO Qian

HUI Pun*
TO Ka Fai

CHAN Anthony Tak

Cheung
2005-06 Molecular Targeting of STAT3 for
Nasopharyngeal
Carcinoma
2005-06 Effect of the Novel Histone Deacetylase
(NPC)
Inhibitor
(MD05813)
PXD101
on
Cellular
Proliferation and Viral Gene Expression
 LUI Wai Yan Vivian

NGAI
in Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)-Carrying
CHAN Anthony Tak
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Lines

(MD05955)
Cheung
 MA Buig Yue Brigette
2003-04 A Phase 1/2 Open-Label Study to Assess
the
WONG
(Anatomical & Cellular Pathology) 
 LEUNG Sing Fai
Jenny*

Safety,
Tolerability,
Xiaorong
and
(Hong
Cancer Institute)
of
YEO Winnie
in
Subjects
LIN
Cancer
Institute)#  SUNG Lan (Hong Kong
Pharmacokinetics of Intravenous Infusion
MB07133
Kong

with
Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma


TAO Qian

CHAN Anthony Tak
Cheung
and Child-Pugh Class a Liver Function
(MD03679)
2002-03 A Phase II/III, Muliticenter, Randomized,
 MA Buig Yue Brigette
Anthony Tak Cheung

CHAN
Controlled,
MOK Shu
Intravenous

Open
T138067-sodium
Chemotherapy-Naïve,
Deacetylase
Faculty of Medicine
Activities
Inhibitor
of
Study
of
versus
Intravenous Doxorubicin in Subjects with
Kam Tony  YEO Winnie
2004-05 Antitumor
Label
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (MD02843)
Histone
PDX101
Unresectable
in
216
Dept of Clinical Oncology
 MOK Shu Kam Tony
Yue Brigette

MA Buig
Selected Patients with Advanced (Stage
ZEE Chung Ying
IIIB or IV) Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Benny (Community

and
(NSCLC) in Asia (MD05387)
Family
 MOK Shu Kam Tony
Medicine)

CHAN
Lam*
2004-05 A
Randomized,
Double-Blind
Mulitcentre 2-Stage Phase III Study of
Bevacizumab
with
Dose Finding Study of RO0503821 in
versus
Anemic Patients with Stage IIIB or IV
Placebo, Cisplatin and Gemcitabine in
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Receiving
Patients
First
Cisplatin
in
and
with
Combination
2005-06 A Multicenter, Randomized, Open-Label
Gemcitabine
Advanced
Recurrent
Line
Myelosuppressive
Non-Squamous Non-Small Cell Lung
Chemotherapy (MD05876)
Cancer, Who Have Not Received Prior
 MOK Shu Kam Tony
Chemotherapy (MD04411)
 MOK Shu Kam Tony

POON
Annette*

LAM Kwok
2005-06 A
Chi  CHAN Lam
Randomised,
Double-Blind
Placebo-Controlled,
Phase
II
Study
of
of
Sequential Administration of Tarceva
with
(Erlotinib) or Placebo in Combination
Advanced Stage IIIB/IV Non-Small Cell
with Gemcitabine/Platinum as First-Line
Lung Cancer (MD05993)
in Patients with Stage IIIB/IV Non-Small
2005-06 An
Expanded
TM
Access
(ERlotinib)
Tarceva
in
Program
Patients
 MOK Shu Kam Tony

Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) (MD05790)
LIN Marie
 MOK Shu Kam Tony
MC*

LAM Kwok
Chi  LEUNG Kam Suet Linda
2005-06 An Open-Label, Phase II Trial of
Patupilone (EPO906) as Monotherapy to
Evaluate
Activity
of
Patupilone
2004-05 Identification
in
Suppressor
of
Novel
Genes
at
Tumor
16q
in
Patients with Advanced Unresectable
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma through a
and/or
Combination of Genetic and Epigenetic
Metastatic
Hepatocellular
Carcinoma (HCC) (MD05609)
 MOK Shu Kam Tony

Approaches (MD04376)
 TAO Qian
LEUNG
Wai Ming Franky*
2005-06 Identification
of
Novel
Suppressor Genes as Tumor Makers for
2005-06 An Open Label, Randomized, Parallel
Group, Multicentre, Phase III Study to
Lung
Assess Efficacy, Safety and Tolerability
Analysis (MD05649)
of
 TAO Qian
Gefitinib
Carboplatin
/
(IRESSA)
Versus
Paclitaxel
Doublet
Tumor
Cancer
through

Methylation
CHAN Anthony Tak
Cheung  CUI Yan#
Chemotherapy as First-Line Treatment in
217
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Clinical Oncology
2005-06 Prognostic
Significance
β-Catenin
mRNA
in
of
nd YONDELIS with DOXIL /CAELYX
Plasma
Patients
with
Alone
Colorectal Cancer (MD05346)

Subjects
with
Advanced
Relapsed Ovarian Cancer (MD05350)
 WONG Sze Chuen Cesar
Anthony Tak Cheung
in

 YEO Winnie  LIN Marie MC*
CHAN
MA Buig
2005-06 Randomised Phase II Study of the
Yue Brigette
Combination of Oral Vinorelbine with
Capecitabine
versus
Peripheral Stem Cell Transplant for High
Regimen
Oral
Risk
Capecitabien versus the Combination of
1997-98 High Dose Adjuvant Chemotherapy and
Breast
Cancer
Patients
 YEO Winnie

Vinorelbine
and
with Metastatic Breast Cancer Previously
KWAN Wing Hong
TEO Man Lung Peter
Wai Tong Thomas#
Ming
Sequential
Docetaxel and Capecitabine in Patients
(MD95266)

of
a
Michael


 YEO Winnie
SUEN Wang
(Anatomical
Cellular Pathology)
Treated with Anthracyclines (MD05703)
LEUNG
&


TANG Ben Zhong*
POON Annette*
KING Wing

2005-06 A Randomized, Double-Blind Phase 2
Keung Walter (Surgery)
Study of Anastrozole plus Lonafarnib
(SCH
2004-05 A Phase II Multi-center, Randomized,
Double-Blind,
Placebo
Active-Controlled,
66336)
with
Dose-Ranging,
Advanced
(MD05395)
Efficacy
 YEO Winnie
the
Oral
Anastrozole
Plus
Placebo for the Treatment of Subjects
and
Parallel Group Study of the Safety and
of
or
Neurokinin-1
Receptor Antagonist, GW679769 when


Breast
Cancer
KWAN Wing Hong
SUEN Joy See Joyce
Administered at Daily Doses of 50 mg,
100 mg, and 150 mg Oral Tablets in
Combination
with
2005-06 Epigenetic Changes in RASSF1A, p16,
Ondanstron
p15 and GSTP1 in the Presence of
Hydrochloride and Dexamethasome for
Histone
the Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (MD05637)
Nausea and Vomiting in Cancer Subjects
 YEO Winnie  CHAN Lam*
Receiving
Highly
Cisplatin-Based
Emetogenic
Chemotherapy
(MD04547)
 YEO Winnie  CHAN Lam  POON
Annette Ngar Ying
2005-06 An
Open-Label,
Multi-center,
Randomized Phase 3 Study Comparing
the Combination of DOXIL /CAELYX
Faculty of Medicine
218
Deacetylase
Inhibition
in
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
similar studies to be conducted in other Chinese cities
RESEARCH PROJECTS
as part of the multi-staged study.
(MD06761)
Heat Wave Impact in China
Unintentional Home Injury in Hong Kong : A
JAFFE
Cross-sectional Pilot Study on Prevalence, Risk
Harold*  GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl  GOGGINS
Factors, Health Seeking Behaviors, Public Health
III William Bernard (The Nethersole School of
Policy and Economic Implication
 CHAN Ying Yang Emily  LI Liping*

Nursing)
 CHAN Ying Yang Emily
 1 June 2007

KIM Jean Hee

LAU Tak Fai Joseph (Centre for Epidemiology
 Oxford - Li Ka Shing Foundation Collaborative
and Biostatistics)
Research Programme

GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl
CHOW Chun Bong*

NG Queeni Tse Kay
Epidemiological research in western countries have
(School of Public Health)
shown mortality and hospital admission increases
(School of Public Health)

CHEUNG Yu Kiu
during heat waves attacks. Although recent reported
 20 June 2007
health wave episodes in China have led to public
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
health emergency, human impact of heat waves in

Grants)
China has not been studied systematically. This
project is the pilot phase of the first multi-staged
Purpose: To conduct a pilot cross-sectional study on
project in China to analyze how climate change has
home injury in Hong Kong.
affected population mortality and morbidity.
Objectives: 1) To determine the prevalence and
3 main research questions: 1) Do heat waves affect
incidence of unintentional home injuries in Hong
mortality patterns in China? 2) If so, who is at
Kong; 2) To characterize the cause, nature, setting
greatest risk? 3) Based on evidence, what would be
and temporal patterns of these injuries; 3) To
some potential actions for public health preparedness
determine the burden of these injuries at individual,
for extreme temperature?
household and societal level; 4) To analyze health
Data collection and analysis: This project involves
seeking behaviors and health service utilization of
data collection from various site and sources in China.
Hong Kong residents after home injuries; 5) To
In Hong Kong 1996-2006 for daily levels of
identify risk factors and high risk groups in relations
meteorological variables, air pollutants and mortality
to unintentional home injury; and 6) To obtain
of China SAR HK would be collected and analyzed.
information about knowledge of injury prevention,
Generalized additive Poisson regression models
presence of safety equipment or safety measures
adjusted for non-tmperature related seasonal factors
taken to prevent unintentional injuries in the home.
will be used to analyze daily mortality counts for
Hypothesis:
selected causes.
worldwide show incidence rates for unintentional
Outcome: Assessment of the impact of heat wave on
injuries ranging from 16.1/1000 to 57/1000 persons
the mortality in Hong Kong will serve as the pilot for
with as many as 41% of households reporting an
Various
population-based
surveys
injury that required medical attention in 2005. 2004
219
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
HK population survey reported incident of home
implications of home injury in Hong Kong.
injury to be about 14.3% and literature review yield
Findings will help shape effective interventions.
limited information on risk factors and health
(MD06664)
seeking behavior after these injuries.
Given the
unique living conditions of Hong Kong, that is
Traditional Chinese Medicine in Hong Kong:
characterized by small and densely inhabited living
Utilization Pattern and Its Role in the Future
quarters, a detailed study on home injury should
Health Care System
yield a different picture and draw attention to
important public health policy implication.
Design
and
Subjects:
A
 GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl  LAU Janice*  WOO
population-based,
Jean (Medicine & Therapeutics)  LO Su Vui* 
cross-sectional, random telephone survey, stratified
WONG Ming Chung (School of Public Health)
by the 3 regions will be conducted using last birthday
 30 September 2006
method. The study population is to be comprised of
 Public Policy Research Funding Scheme
land-based non-institutional population of all ages,
including foreign/local domestic helpers residing in
Background: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)
Hong Kong.
started its rapid development in Hong Kong since the
Study
for
reunification. Its importance was reemphasized by
Conducting Community Surveys on Injuries and
the latest policy address by the Chief Executive, but
Violence (WHO 2004), a modified questionnarie that
its role in the future health care system were not
tailored for HK living arrangement will be developed.
identified in the discussion paper “Building Healthy
Information on health seeking practices (e.g. the use
Tomorrow”. Updated data on local TCM utilization
of traditional Chinese medicine) and cost incurred
pattern and the characteristics of TCM users are
from home injury will also be solicited.
A pilot
essential in formulating TCM development policies.
study will be conducted to ensure validity and
We explored the issue by performing a systematic
reliability of the modified instrument.
review on past literature and we found paucity in
Analysis: Descriptive statistics, stratified by age,
such data.
gender and district area, will be reported on
territory wide, population representative census scale
prevalence and incidence of various types of injury.
investigation commissioned by the Census and
A two staged analysis will be conducted: I) An
Statistic Department.
univariate analysis to examine and to identify
utilization, demographics, health condition and health
significant
independent
related lifestyle data which has the potential to
variables with unintentional home injuries; and II) A
establish the basis of TCM policy formulation.
stepwise multivariate logistic regression to analysis
Aims: To describe local TCM use and its relevance to
significant variable identified during 1st stage.
planning future healthcare by: a. Systematic review
Health seeking behavior, economic and public health
on
policy implication will also be explored.
Describing the utilization of TCM in the local
Main
instrument:
Based
associations
outcome:
Major
on
Guidelines
between
will
literature
It contains unanalyzed TCM
concerning
local
TCM
use;
b.
include:
population, using data from the Thematic Household
Epidemiological profile of associated risk factors;
Survey (THS); c. Performing a longitudinal analysis
health seeking behaviors pattern and economic
of the changes in utilization pattern, using previous
Faculty of Medicine
findings
Thematic Household Survey (THS) is a
220
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
and future THS results; d. Undertaking qualitative
Determine if needs are being met: What proportion of
research regarding the patients’ view on the
children who need glasses have them?
utilization and effectiveness of TCM; and e.
Identify barriers: What prevents children from
Establishing a platform for future regional and
accessing good-quality spectacles, such as those
international comparative analysis and researches.
provided by our local vision centre in Xichang?
Methods: We propose to perform cross section and
Test a solution: Train teachers to screen students, and
longitudinal analysis on the existing dataset from
provide education to teachers, children and parents on
THS 99-04, in addition to the new data from the
the ability of glasses to correct poor vision, and the
forthcoming THS 05, which we have contributed new
availability of good-quality, affordable spectacles
questions on lifetime utilization and perceived quality
locally at Xichang eye center.
of TCM consultation.
The focus of analysis will be:
The pilot study produced startling results: even I rural
a. Descriptive statistic on TCM utilization and its
Xichang, over half of the 1800 children examined
sequential trend; b. Health condition, lifestyle factors
were myopic, and more than half of these
and TCM use; and c. Patient satisfaction level on
near-sighted
TCM services, with comparison to western outpatient
inaccurately-prescribed glasses or none at all. Lack of
services.
knowledge, concern over cost and fears that glasses
(MD06929)
may harm the eyes appear to be major barriers among
children
either
had
parents and children. Educational efforts at the
Evaluating Health Interventions for Children in
schools to increase uptake of spectacles are now
Rural China
on-going and have been well-received.
Having identified a major rural health problem and
CONGDON Nathan
piloted a solution, we are eager to scale up the
Greenleaf (Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences)
Xichang program to combat poor vision in other
LAM Shun Chiu Dennis (Ophthalmology and
schools in the Chaoshan area, and to develop and
 GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl

Visual Sciences)


JAFFE Harold*

evaluate effective programme interventions. We
SHARMA
propose to use the opportunity provided by eye
Abhishek*
testing to add other health interventions in such
 1 June 2007
critical areas as obesity and smoking, both growing
 Oxford - Li Ka Shing Foundation Collaborative
problems in China, in selected schools. The goal is to
Research Programme
provide programs for rural Chinese children which
In response to local concerns about the growing
build on good vision to promote other healthy
prevalence of myopia (near-sightedness) and poor
behaviours. We will evaluate the interventions using
access to glasses, Caring is Hip, CUHK, Shantou
qualitative. Other interventions such as school-based
University and Joint Shantou/International Eye
provision of spectacles and pharmacologic treatments
Centre recently launched a pilot project in the village
to reduce myopia will be studied.
of Xichang (Chaoshan Region) with the following
(MD06584)
goals:
Assess the problems: What is the prevalence of
Incentives and Barriers to Adopting the Family
myopia in rural middle-schools?
Doctor Model in Hong Kong – An In-depth
221
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
(MD06829)
Qualitative Study of the Views, Knowledge and
Attitudes of Patients
A Population-based Survery on Internet Use
 GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl
Cindy*

LEE Albert


LAM Lo Kuen
PHILIP David*

Patterns, Pathological Internet Use, Internet
LAM
Addictions
Tai Pong*  JONES Roger*  WONG Chi Wai
and
Associated
Adverse
Health
Outcomes Among Hong Kong Residents : A Pilot
Study
 1 June 2007
 Food and Health Bureau - Studies in Health
 GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl  KIM Jean Hee  LAU
Services
Tak Fai Joseph (Centre for Epidemiology and
Improving the use and effectiveness of primary care
Biostatistics)
services in Hong Kong is a key policy priority,
(The Nethersole School of Nursing)
particularly
Kwai Wing (School of Public Health)
in
management.
the
area
of
chronic
disease
Fundamental to any programme of
GOGGINS III William Bernard

CHOW

CHEUNG Yu Kiu (School of Public Health)
change is an in-depth understanding of the views,
 30 June 2007
knowledge, and attitudes of those who receive the
services.

 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
The family doctor model has been
Grants)
proposed as one solution.
The aim of the present study is to explore the
Background: Despite the fact that Hong Kong ranks
incentives and barriers to adopting the family doctor
9th globally in per capita internet access and that there
model in Hong Kong from the viewpoint of patients
is an ever increasing number of individuals using
with chronic disease.
computers, there has never been a population-based
purposively
from
a
Patients will be sampled
large
quantitative
survey
survey of internet use and its health outcomes in this
conducted by Hong Kong University. 3 groups of
region.
patients will be interviewed: a) those with a family
small-scale
doctor; b) those with a primary care provider (GP or
convenience sample-based studies, studies limited to
TCM Practitioner); and c) those with no primary care
student populations, or other specific risk-groups that
provider.
are not generalizable to the entire population of Hong
In-depth qualitative methods will: a) explore views
Kong. A systematic analysis of this phenomenon in
on primary care as it currently exists; b) examine
the general population of Hong Kong is long
knowledge and understanding of the family doctor
overdue.
model; c) elucidate attitudes towards health, self-care,
Objectives: The aims of this study are to examine the
and the role of primary care; and d) delineate the
prevalence of internet use, pathological internet use,
incentives and barriers to adopting the family doctor
internet addiction by sociodemographic factors and to
model. The study will provide a rich understanding
examine the effects of internet use on physical health
of patients’ views on primary care, and the incentives
and mental health factors such as depression and
and barriers to adopting a family doctor model, with
decreased physical activity.
important implications for the further development of
obtain a preliminary prevalence estimate of risky
primary care in Hong Kong.
internet behaviours such as meeting strangers from
Faculty of Medicine
222
The local data on internet use are limited to
consumer
marketing
surveys,
The study will also
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
cyberspace in the population.
knowledge and skills.
The study also seeks
to validate measures of pathological internet use in a
Methods: A doctor and a nurse accompanied by
Hong Kong Chinese sample.
outreach team will consult at (1) AFRO drop-in
Methods: An anonymous, random telephone survey
clinic or (2) at FSW work places.
will be used stratifying the sampling frame by 3
services will include HIV and, common and
geographic areas (Hong Kong, Kowloon and New
important
Territories) A structured questionnaire with validated
chlamdydia, hepatitis B as well as Pap smears.
instruments for Quality of Life (Short Form-12),
Treatment or referrals will be given for positive STI.
Depression, Anxiety and Stress (DASS-21), Internet
All positive HIV will be referred to the DH Kowloon
Addiction (Young’s Internet Addiction Scale) will be
Bay Clinic for assessment while this clinic will
used to survey Chinese adults in Hong Kong between
continue to look after non-HAART therapy related
the ages of 18-65.
medical needs of these HIV positive patients.
First birthday method of
STI
including
syphilis,
Screening
gonorrhoea,
The
respondent selection will be used.
clinical
Results: Pending
education on safe sex and negotiation techniques on
Conclusions: Pending
condom use at the same time.
(SS06403)
Output and Deliverables : The output criteria
staff
will
also
provide
opportunistic
includes new attendance of 300 FSW, 150 returnees
Outreach
and 50 FSW presented with symptoms in a year’s
Service for Sex Workers to Prevent and Manage
period. Another criteria will be that 90% or more of
HIV/STI in Hong Kong
FSW will take up voluntary HIV testing and it is
To
Establish
a
Community-based
expected over 90% of those diagnosed with STI will
 GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl

YIM Kit Sum*
receive treatment. A fourth output criterion will be

that at least 50% of FSW will return at the end of the
Eleanor Holoryd*  HO King Man*
two year period for repeated tests.
 1 July 2007
Access and
service output satisfaction will be assessed and sound
 Council for the AIDS Trust Fund
satisfaction criteria will be that 80% of attendees will
Aims: To reduce HIV infection by actively seeking
score most (1) or very (2) satisfied with the service.
and treating STI and HIV amongst FSW in Hong
Further assessment will be that of HIV safe sexual
Kong.
knowledge, attitudes and behaviours (condom usage)
Objectives
as indicated by an improvement of 20%, 10% and
1.
2.
3.
affordable,
5-10% (for local and non-local FSW respectively)
non-stigmatising medical outreach service that
between the baseline and those returned one year
specifically targets Hong Kong’s FSW for
later.
screening of HIV/ STI and treatment of STI;
(MD07815)
To
provide
an
accessible,
To diagnose and treat FSW presented with STI
symptoms or had a likely exposure to HIV (case
Effects of Soy Protein or Isoflavones on Glycemic
finding); and
Control, Insulin Resistance and Cardiovascular
To provide opportunistic education and equip
Risks - A Six-month Randomized Double-blind,
FSW with relevant and practical safe sex
223
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
Placebo-controlled
Trial
in
The result from this study will yield valuable
Post-Menopausal
information on the effects of soy on the primary
Women
prevention of diabetes in susceptible subjects. This
 HO CHAN Suzanne

WOO
proposed study will form part of a larger research
HO Yee Ping
effort, including cross-sectional and longitudinal
LAM Wai Kei
studies and clinical trials on the potential benefits of
CHEN Yuming
Jean (Medicine & Therapeutics)
(School of Pharmacy)



soy on bone mass/loss, calcium retention, cognitive
Christopher (Chemical Pathology)
function, and lipid profiles.
 1 January 2007
(CU06450)
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Several animal studies and small scale human trials
Evaluation of a School-based Empowerment
showed that soy intervention improved glycemic
Programme “School NutriAgent Project” (SNAP)
control and diabetic complications in diabetic animals
for the Promotion of Healthy Eating in Primary
and humans. No study has reported if soy protein or
School in Hong Kong
isoflavones could prevent the progress of developing
diabetes in individuals with impaired fasting glucose
(IFG).
 LEE Albert  HO Man (Centre for Health Ed. &
Moreover, it is unclear whether the
Health Promotion)
beneficial effect is due to isoflavones alone, or
 1 January 2007
isoflavones contained in soy protein.
 Department of Health, Hong Kong SAR
We propose to perform a double-blind, randomized
placebo-controlled trial to examine the hypothesis
The project aims to evaluate whether “School
that soy protein with isoflavones could improve
NutriAgent Project” conducted by the Department of
glycemic control, insulin sensitivity and decrease
Health is effective in encouraging local primary
cardiovascular risk factors in middle-aged women
schools to comply with the nutritional guidelines on
with IFG (5.6-7.0 mmol/l), and that the soy effects
school lunch and snacks issued by DH in 2006. The
might be more pronounced in post- than in
effect of compliance is to increase the provision of
premenopausal women.
180 eligible subjects (90
fruit and vegetables in school lunch and snacks, as
pre- and 90 post-menopausal) will be randomly
well as decrease the provision of unhealthy food
assigned to receive one of three treatments with a
items in school lunch and snacks during the 2006/07
daily dose of:. 20 g soy protein + 120 mg isoflavones;
school year.
120 mg isoflavones + 20 g casein, or 20 g casein
(ED06696)
(placebo) for 24 weeks.
Fasting and post-load
plasma glucose, the primary outcome measures, and
Organization
insulin resistance, C-peptide, and cardiovascular risk
Promoting School on January 22-26, Including
factors (lipids, oxidized LDL, homocysteine, C
Facilitation of Attendance by Cook Islands and
reactive protein, fibrinogen, blood pressure and body
Nauru
fat) will be examined at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks
post treatment.
Faculty of Medicine
 LEE Albert
224
of
Short
Course
on
Health
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
 22 January 2007
-
To enhance social adjustment and build up the
capacity of ethnic minorities and Chinese new
 World Health Organization
immigrants to achieve self-help and mutual help;
1.
To conduct a 4-day curriculum development and
-
regional teachers training short course in Hong
immigrants with personal life skills that develops
Kong on health promoting schools with 2
their capacity and potentials;
representatives each (1 from Health & 1 from
2.
-
4.
To promote social inclusion between ethnic
Education) from Cook Islands and Nauru
minorities, Chinese new immigrants and local
including travel, meals and accommodation;
people by enhancing mutual understanding and
To organize a study tour for participants to visit a
facilitating direct interaction;
health education resources centre in Hong Kong
3.
To equip ethnic minorities and Chinese new
-
To collaborate with other sectors/organizations
and interact with other stakeholders in health
to provide better support to ethnic minorities
promoting schools such as community leaders,
and Chinese new immigrants.
school administrators, teachers and children;
The project will build up the capacity of the ethnic
To develop and maintain an interactive website
minorities and Chinese new immigrants to integrate
on an on-going basis for participants in the short
into the local community.
course to enable its use for continuing dialogue
facilitation,
and interaction as the regional teachers’ training
self-image and self-confidence of ethnic minorities
course is adopted at country level; and
and Chinese new immigrants are enhanced. Equip
To compile and submit a detailed final technical
with these life skills, they will be capable to working
report on the training and a financial report.
with people from different age group, race and
(MD06524)
personal
life
Through the project’s
skills,
self-esteem,
disciplinary so as to achieve “complementary” ad
interlocking matching.
At the same time, these
Capacity Building for the Ethnic Minorities and
skills will benefit their career development to enable
the Chinese New Immigrants Towards Social
them to serve community. This is also conducive to
Inclusion
social inclusion and racial harmony in the community.
Mutual supportive network among ethnic minorities
 LEE Albert

CHENG YAM FK Frances
and Chinese new immigrants as well as the local
(Centre for Health Ed. & Health Promotion)
community can this be developed.
(MD06683)
 15 February 2007
 Community Investment and Inclusion Fund,
Development of Learning and Teaching Resource
HKSAR Government
Series for the New Senior Secondary Health
The project aims at engaging the most marginalized
groups
(ethnic
minorities
and
Chinese
Management and Social Care Curriculum
new
immigrants) in Hong Kong to achieve the following
 LEE Albert
objectives:

CHENG YAM FK Frances
(Centre for Health Ed. & Health Promotion)
 1 March 2007
225
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
 Education and Manpower Bureau, HKSAR
providing a supportive home and school environment
to nurture healthy lifestyles in school children. It
Government
emphasis a sustainable and consistent environmental
To offer teaching and learning materials to Hong
changes at home and school and the change of
Kong Secondary School teachers who would teach
knowledge or attitude in individual children as well.
the New Senior Secondary HMSC Curriculum (the
The project adopts the model of empowerment and
“teachers”) in September 2009 by a variety of
audiovisual firms.
multi-disciplinary approach to address the complex
It is expected that the teachers
problem of childhood obesity.
would acquire comprehensive understanding of the
It also encourages
active participation of parents to act as a health
major objectives, key concepts, core knowledge and
promoter at home and as volunteers for school to gain
teaching skills of the curriculum, and be competent
a better understanding about school policies and to
with full confidence in teaching this subject to a
share the workload of teachers on the one hand, and
reasonably high standard.
work in hand with school and health professionals to
The service provider would develop one set of
foster a supportive school and home environment on
Learning and Teaching Resource Series, both in
the other hand. It is an 18-month project adopts the
English and Chinese respectively, for the HMSC
home-school joint venture approach to foster a
Curriculum covering both the student’s study texts
holistic supportive home and school environment to
and teacher’s teaching notes in both compulsory and
help school children to learn proper weight
elective parts.
management skills, to develop healthy lifestyle, and
(ED06909)
to build up self-confidence and self-efficacy.
6
primary schools will be recruited to join the project.
Home-School Joint Venture to Combat Childhood
20 obese students from each school will be invited to
Obesity
join the programme with their parents.
(SS06838)
 LEE Albert  HO Man (Centre for Health Ed. &
Health Promotion)

KWONG Chi Ming Amy
(Centre for Health Ed. & Health Promotion)
Utilization Pattern of Primary Care Services in

Hong Kong-Does Having a Family Doctor Make
YUNG Ka Chun (School of Public Health)
Any Difference
 1 June 2007
 MERCER Stewart William
 Health Care and Promotion Fund
Similar to other parts of the world, the problem of
childhood obesity is increasingly prevalent in Hong

LEUNG Gabriel*
Daniel*

LEE Albert

LAM Lo Kuen

FONG Yee Tak
LAM Tai Pong*

LO
Yvonne*
Kong school children. Obesity can pose immediate
 1 June 2007
health problem to children as well as long-term health
 Health and Health Services Research Fund
risks. This pioneer fitness programme fully make
use of the positive family influence together with a
Background: Primary health care in Hong Kong is
close collaboration with school and healthcare
provided by a variety of Western and Chinese
professionals to combat childhood obesity through
Faculty of Medicine
Cindy*

medicine practitioners, a recent survey found that
226
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
55% adults in Hong Kong said that they had a regular
complete the diaries by themselves. All diaries will
primary care doctor but only 10% thought that they
be returned with the written consent form in a
had a family doctor. It is not known how effective
pre-paid self-addressed envolope to the investigators
primary care services in Hong Kong are and whether
Outcome Measures and Data Analysis: The primary
having a family doctor or regular doctor make any
outcomes are monthly consultation rate, patient
difference to the care received.
reported
Effectiveness of a
outcomes
measured
by
the
Patient
consultation can be measured by the process and
Enablement Instrument (PEI) score, and rates of
patient reported outcomes of care.
Aims and
non-drug management. The outcomes will be
Objectives: To find out the utilization rate, process
analysed for the general population and compared
and outcomes of primary health care services
between people who report to have a family doctor, a
provided by different types of practitioners in Hong
regular primary care doctor and no regular primary
Kong, and the effect of having a family doctor on
care doctor for any difference.
service utilization rate and pattern, heatlh promotion
longitudinal study will be used to cross-validate and
practice, and process and outcomes of consultations.
adjust for any possible recall errors of the results
Design and Subjects: A cross-sectional survey of a
from the cross-sectional study. Conclusions: This is
random sample of 3000 subjects from general
the first study to evaluate the process and outcome of
population in Hong Kong followed by a prospective
primary care consultations for the general population
study of 600 subjects recruited from the general
in Hong Kong and to collect prospective data on
population survey.
Methods: Households will be
primary care service utlization rates and pattern. It
contacted by random digital dialing and a member of
will also provide information whether people with a
the household will be recruited randomly to answer a
family doctor receive more effective primary health
structured questionnaire on the usual type of primary
care or not.
health care provider and utilization pattern, illness
(MD06952)
behaviour
including
self-medication
The data from the
and
consultations for the last episode of illness, process
Will Hong Kong Experience an Epidemic of
and
last
Mesothelioma? – Exploring the Evidence through
to
a Systematic Review and an Ecological Study on
patient
consultation.All
reported
subjects
outcomes
who
are
of
the
willing
participate in a longitudinal study will be asked to
Asbestos, Asbestosis, and Mesothelioma
complete a diary on all illness episodes and
consultations for 12 weeks.
All subects will be
 TSE Lap Ah
contacted by telephone within the week before the

YU Tak Sun Ignatius

AU Siu
Kie*
diary starting date to confirm receipt of the diaries, to
 29 June 2007
give instructions on how to complete the diary and to
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
identify those who require interviewer administration.
Grants)
Weekly telephone or SMS will be made to the
subjects to remind them to complete the diary. The
Worldwide, malignant mesothelioma was considered
diaries will be self-completed by subjects (or carers
to be a rare neoplasm before 1950s but the incidence
of minors) who are able to do it, and by weekly
rates have been increasing steeply since 1970s in
telephone interviews for subjects who are not able to
many parts of the world, and is predicted to go on
227
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
rising into the next decade with a peak between 2011
Kwok (Chemical Pathology)
and 2015.
CHAN Wan Kin
Hong Kong may experience a similar
epidemic of mesothelioma as a consequence of the
extensive use of asbestos in the past.

LEE Albert

 1 August 2006
The
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
occurrence of malignant mesothelioma has been very
Diseases
closely linked to asbestos exposure and asbestosis.
However, not enough is known whether excessive risk
Objective: There is now substantial literature
of malignant mesothelioma occurs exclusively among
showing that psychological stress can down-regulate
workers who already have developed asbestosis
various aspects of the cellular and humoral immune
(fibrosis of the lungs).
Moreover, evidence on a
responses. In this study, the role of chronic stress
possible link between chrysotile asbestos and
on modulating immune response to influenza specific
malignant mesothelioma remains unclear.
immunity in community dwelling elderly in Hong
The
present study will systematically review the evidence
Kong will be evaluated for the first time.
from the published literature (1966-July 2007) on
Design: A case-control study.
whether asbestosis is a prerequisite for the link
Setting: Baseline screening and interviewing of
between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, and
subjects will be conducted at a community clinic.
whether exposure to chrysotile asbestos alone
Participants and intervention: 50 spousal caregivers
increases the risk for mesothelioma. A time trend
(cases) of patients with chronic diseases (COAD,
analysis will also be conducted to estimate the age,
stroke and Parkinson’s diseases) will be recruited
period and/or cohort effects on the secular trend of
from the Psycho-geriatric Day Hospital of the Shatin
mesothelioma incidence rate in Hong Kong and shed
Hospital where their partners have attended.
lights on the underlying reasons.
controls will be recruited from community health
By relating
50
mesothelioma incidence to the local consumptions of
centre.
different types of asbestos and taking into account a
matched on sex, age, family income and rates of
lag time of 30-40 years, we shall be able to understand
chronic diseases.
the possible factors associated with the changes in the
that were shown to influenze vaccine response will be
time trend of mesothelioma incidence and predict the
measured
incidence of mesothelioma in the future decades.
physical exams at baseline.
(MD06521)
vaccination will be given to all subjects in the fall of
2006.
Caregivers and control subjects will be
by
Perceived stress and co-variates
standardized
questionnaires
and
Trivalent influenza
Blood samples will be drawn before
Chronic Psychosocial Stress: Does it Modulate
inoculation, and at 6 weeks and 12 weeks post
Immunity to Influenza Vaccine in Hong Kong
vaccination.
Chinese Elderly?
Main outcome measures and analysis: The main
outcome measures will be antibody titres and serum
WOO Jean
concentration and ex vivo production of cytokines in
LAM Wai Kei
both controls and cases in response to the influenza
 WONG Yeung Shan Samuel
(Medicine & Therapeutics)


Christopher (Chemical Pathology)
Sheung Paul (Microbiology)

CHAN Kay
vaccination. Univariate and multivariate anlyses of
WONG Chun
variance will be used to assess differences between

caregivers and controls in antibody titres and cytokine
Faculty of Medicine
228
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
concentration.
Differences in the percentage of
responders between the two groups will be compared
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
by chi-squared tests.
 11 September 2006
(MD06855)
 Aegera Therapeutics Inc.
A Pilot Study to Investigate the Efficacy and
Develop a synopsis for Phase I/II trial of AEG35156 in
Safety of IMD-1041 in Patients with Type II
hepatocellular carcinoma patients.
Diabetes Mellitus
and budget for the full data management services for
Provide timeline
the above study.
(MD06839)
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
 11 September 2006
Statistical Analysis Related to the Clinical Study
 Institute of Medicinal Molecular Design Inc.
Entitled “A Pilot Study to Investigate the
Centre for Clinical Trials will be responsible for
Response of IMD-0354 Ointment in Patients with
providing study administrative and data management
Atopic Dermatitis”
services for a clinical study entitled “A Pilot Study to
Investigate the Efficacy and Safety of IMD-1041 in
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
Patients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus”.
 10 December 2006
(MD06324)
 Institute of Medicinal Molecular Design Inc.
A Pilot Study to Investigate the Response of
Centre for Clinical Trials will be responsible for
IMD-0354 Ointment in Patients with Atopic
providing statistical analysis related to the clinical
Dermatitis
study entitled “A pilot study to investigate the
response of IMD-0354 ointment in patients with
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
atopic dermatitis”.
 11 September 2006
(MD06363)
 Institute of Medicinal Molecular Design Inc.
Statistical Analysis Related to the Clinical Study
Centre for Clinical Trials will be responsible for
Entitled “A Pilot to Investigate the Efficacy and
providing study administrative and data management
Safety of IMD-1041 in Patients with Type II
services for a clinical study entitled “A pilot study to
Diabetes Mellitus”
investigate the response of IMD-0354 ointment in
patients with atopic dermatitis”.
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
(MD06375)
 10 December 2006
 Institute of Medicinal Molecular Design Inc.
Development of Synopsis and Study Planning for
“Phase I/II Trial of AEG35156 in Hepatocellular
Centre for Clinical Trials will be responsible for
Carcinoma Patients”
providing statistical analysis related to the clinical
study entitled “A Pilot Study to Investigate the
229
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
Efficacy and Safety of IMD-1041 in Patients with
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny  LAI Ming Po (Centre
Type II Diabetes Mellitus”.
(MD06540)
for Clinical Trials)
 28 May 2007
The Hong Kong Emesis Registry 2006 (Quality of
 AstraZeneca (WuXi) Trading Company Limited
Life Study for Moderate Emetogenic Patients) –
Provides training and education for clinical research
Manuscript Writing & Patient Recruitment
personnel in hospitals.
(MD06740)
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
 13 December 2006
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
 Merck Sharp & Dohme (Asia) Ltd
for more details of the following ongoing research
Professor Zee will be responsible for carrying out quality
at the department:
of life assessment from previous Hong Kong Emesis
Registry Study plus 80 patients from the study entitled “A
Edition
Title/Investigators
Phase III randomized, double-blind study to determine
the efficacy and tolerability of aprepitant for the
2005-06 Non-Communicable Disease Prevention
prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and
and
vomiting
Developing and Public Health Training
associated
with
Control
Strategic
adriamycin-cyclophosphamide adjuvant chemotherapy
Support Services (MD05514)
in Chinese breast cancer patients” and complete a
 GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl
Framework
manuscript writing for the captioned project.
(MD06323)
2005-06 Public Health Research (MD05505)
 GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl

YEOH
Development for Otsuka Phase I Trial in Multiple
Eng Kiong (School of Public Health)
Myeloma and Lymphoma

 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
TANG Jinling
2005-06 Provision
of
Economic
Input
into
Research Studies Undertaken by the
 9 May 2007
Research Office of the Health, Welfare
 Otsuka Beijing Research Institute
and Food Bureau (MD05874)
Protocol development and consent form development
 GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl

YEOH
for clinical trial in patients with multiple myeloma and
Eng Kiong (School of Public Health)
lymphoma.

(MD06888)
(School of Public Health)
Clinical Research Professional Workshops in
Beijing and Guangzhou
Faculty of Medicine
230
LEUNG
Chi
Ming
Michael
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
& Organ Imaging)
2003-04 Adolescent and Adult Soy Intake and
Breast
Cancer
Risk
in

YU Ho Yan
(School of Public Health)
Chinese
Pre-Menopausal Women (MD03666)
 HO CHAN Suzanne

(Medicine & Therapeutics)
Chiu
Wing
Winnie
2004-05 Health Promoting School Programme
WOO Jean

(MD04696)
CHU
 LEE Albert
(Diagnostic

CHENG YAM FK
Radiology & Organ Imaging)  YEO
Frances (Centre for Health Ed. &
Winnie
(Clinical
Health Promotion)
TANG
Leung
Oncology)
Sang
(Chemical Pathology)

Nelson
Kwan (Centre for Health Ed. &
Health Promotion)
LAU Tak

YUEN Suk

Fai Joseph (Centre for Epidemiology
2004-05 General
and Biostatistics)
Practice
Management
of
Osteoarthritis (MD04469)
 LEE Albert
2005-06 Effects of Isoflavone in Patients with
Watchful
Waiting
Benign
Prostate

2004-05 Community Development Approach to
Create Better Health of our Young
WOO Jean
(Medicine & Therapeutics)
WONG

CHAN Lung

(School of Pharmacy)


TSANG Kwong Ka
Wai (Surgery)  YOU Hoi Sze Joyce
Albert
WONG Chi Wai
WONG Yeung Shan Samuel
Hyperplasia (CU05453)
 HO CHAN Suzanne

LEE
Generation within the Settings of Their
Shan
Daily Life (MD04356)

Yeung
 LEE Albert
Samuel

CHENG YAM FK
Frances (Centre for Health Ed. &
2005-06 A
Three-Year
Progression
of
Followup
Study
Common
of
Health Promotion)
Carotid

HO
Man
(Centre for Health Ed. & Health
Atherosclerosis and the Associated Risk
Promotion)

Factors in a Population-Based Cohort of
(University
Health
Postmenopausal
YUEN Suk Kwan (Centre for Health
Chinese
Women
(MD05895)
YUEN Wing Ki
Service)#

Ed. & Health Promotion)
 HO CHAN Suzanne

WOO Jean
2005-06 A Phase III, Multicenter, Open-Label,
(Medicine & Therapeutics)  HO Sin
Yee Stella (Diagnostic Radiology &
Dose-Titrating,
Organ Imaging)
TANG Leung
Evaluating the Efficacy, Tolerability and
Sang Nelson (Chemical Pathology) 
Safety of Olmesartan Medoxomil 20 mg
GOGGINS III William Bernard (The
and 40 mg Alone or in Combination with
Nethersole School of Nursing)

12.5 mg to 25 mg of Hydrochlorothiazide
Christopher
in Subjects with Mild to Moderate
LAM
Wai

Kei
(Chemical Pathology)

16-week
Study
Essential Hypertension (MD05959)
AHUJA
Anil Tejbhan (Diagnostic Radiology
231
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Community & Family Medicine
 LEE Albert

WONG Chi Sang
CHAN Wan Kin

Target Early School Leavers in Hong

Kong (MD05463)
LAU LEUNG
 WONG Chi Wai
Choi Har Louisa
Eleanor
2005-06 Capacity
Building
for
Pre-School
Anne
HOLROYD

(The
School of Nursing)#

Nethersole
LEE Albert

Children: Health Promoting Kindergarten
WONG Yeung Shan Samuel
(SS05466)
NGAI Sze Wan Emily (Educational
 LEE Albert


Administration & Policy)#
CHENG YAM FK
Frances (Centre for Health Ed. &
Health Promotion)

2005-06 To Determine the Prevalence and Risk
CHYE Mee
Factors for STDs/HIV for Female Street
Len*
and
Brothel
Sex
Workers
in
HK
(MD05560)
2005-06 Evaluation of Home Modification for the
 WONG Chi Wai
Elderly Program in Wong Tai Sin and

LEUNG Tse
Kowloon City Districts (MD05374)
Ngong (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
 LEE Albert


CHENG YAM FK
LIANG Mei*
Frances (Centre for Health Ed. &
Health Promotion)
Sang

WONG Chi
2005-06 Evaluation Studies on Sexual Abuse
NG Yiu Pan (Centre for
Prevention Programs for Upper Primary

and Junior Secondary School Studies
Health Ed. & Health Promotion)#
(SS05409)
 WONG Chi Wai
2005-06 Survey on Occupational Safety and
Health Situation of Private Clinics in
Catherine
Hong Kong (MD05431)
Gynaecology)
 LEE Albert


TANG So Kum
(Obstetrics
&
CHENG YAM FK
2004-05 Genitourinary
Frances (Centre for Health Ed. &
Problems
and
Mood
Disorders in Elderly Chinese Men - A
Health Promotion)
First Epidemiological Cohort Study in
Hong Kong (MD04760)
2005-06 Preparation of a Thematic Paper for the
 WONG Yeung Shan Samuel  WOO
Knowledge Network on Urban Settings
(KNUS), WHO Commission on Social
Jean (Medicine & Therapeutics)
Determinants of Health on "Improving
LYNN Sui Heng Henry (School of
Health and Building Human Capital"
Public Health)#

(MD05488)
 LEE Albert
2004-05 Pearl-Postmenopausal
Risk-Reduction
2005-06 Involving
Developing
and
Lasofoxifene
the
"Hard-to
Reach":
(MD04831)
and
Evaluating
a
 WONG Yeung Shan Samuel  WOO
Peer
Education Sexual Health Programme to
Faculty of Medicine
with
Evaluation
Jean (Medicine & Therapeutics)
232

Dept of Community & Family Medicine
2004-05 Quality
LEUNG Ping Chung (Institute of
Chinese Medicine)
Non-Ignorable
GRIFFITH

of
Life
Analysis
Missing
Data
with
Using
James Francis (Diagnostic Radiology
Pattern-Mixture Models with Generalized
& Organ Imaging)
Estimating Equation (GEE) and Multiple
Imputation (MI) (CU04291)
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
2005-06 A Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial:
The Effect of Mindfulness-Based Stress

MOK
Shu Kam Tony (Clinical Oncology)
Reduction Programme on Pain, as well as
Quality of Life in Chronic Pain Sufferers
2005-06 Safety Testing and Protocol Development
(MD05983)
for Bone Rescuer (MD05740)
 WONG Yeung Shan Samuel

 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
LEE
Albert
2005-06 Phase I Study on the Safety and
2003-04 Male
Lung
Exposures
Cancer,
and
Pharmacokinetics of Single and Repeated
Occupational
Smoking
-
Application of IMD-0354 in Healthy
A
Case-Control Study in Hong Kong
Male Volunteers (MD05520)
(CU03460)
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
 YU Tak Sun Ignatius


TSE Lap Ah
2005-06 Feasibility Tests for Measuring the
WONG Tze Wai
Concentrations of IL-6 and 8-Isoprostane
from Exhaled Breathe Condensate of
2005-06 Mortality Experience of Register II
Silicotic Patients in Hong Kong - An
COPD Patients (MD05835)
Extended
(1981-2006)
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
TSE Lap Ah
2005-06 Collaboration with Bridgetech Medical
Follow-Up
(MD05495)
 YU Tak Sun Ignatius


Technologies Research & Development
KO Mo Lin, Regina*
(BMT
2004-05 Data
Management
"Randomized
Phase
Services
II
Study
R&D)
for
Clinical
Trials
Operations in China (MD05782)
for
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
to
Investigate the Effects of Recombinant
2005-06 Prediction of Population Risk of Chronic
Intestinal Trefoil Factor (ITF) on Oral
Mucositis
in
Patients
Diseases
Receiving
by
Generating
PIN-ER-t
Radiation Therapy for Nasopharyngeal
Numbers for Hong Kong (MD05587)
Cancer
 ZHANG Xin-Hua
with
Protocol
Number

2004-ITF-004" (MD04927)
(Medicine
 ZEE Chung Ying Benny
GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl
233
&
WOO Jean
Therapeutics)

Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Diagnostic Radiology & Organ Imaging
motions in AIS were not compromised when
RESEARCH PROJECTS
compared with the normal controls.
In the present study, the main Objective is to evaluate
of
the effect of corrective surgery on AIS patients. As
Pulmonary Functional Change in Adolescent
we have obtained the pre-operative MR study and
Idiopathic Scoliosis before and after Corrective
lung function tests on a group of 30 AIS patients, we
Surgery
are going evaluate the post operative changes on lung
Dynamic
Magnetic
Resonance
Imaging
functions two years after the surgery. We will look
 CHU Chiu Wing Winnie
Martin (Paediatrics)

LI Man Chim Albert
into the absolute change of lung volume movement
NG Kin Wah Bobby
amplitude of chest wall and diaphragm on both convex

(Orthopaedics & Traumatology)

Ping (Orthopaedics & Traumatology)
and concave side of the scoliotic curve and the
LAM Tsz

compare
CHENG
clinical
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
and
indices
for
better
surgical
planning,
prognostication and also lay the foundation for
Grants)
establishing more evidence-based management of
Idiopathic
Scoliosis
(AIS)
is
scoliotic patients
a
(MD06374)
three-dimensional torsion deformity of the spine.
than
pre-operatively
Significance of the study should provide useful
 1 June 2007
Other
difference
post-operatively.
Chun Yiu Jack (Orthopaedics & Traumatology)
Adolescent
the
important
cosmetic
(and
hence
psychological) effect, the major medical implications
Detection of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC)
of AIS are related to the adverse impact on
using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
respiratory function, which includes reduced exercise
 KING Ann Dorothy
tolerance, increased risk of developing respiratory

VLANTIS Alexander
failure and in extreme cases, premature morbidity.
Chris (Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck S) 
Despite extensive research, there are controversies
TSANG
about the exact etiology of respiratory impairment in
(Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck S)
AIS.
Chung Ying Benny (Community and Family
The effects of surgical treatment on dynamic
King
Yin
Raymond

ZEE
lung function changes have not been adequately studied.
Medicine)
In our recently published study, we have employed
Cellular Pathology)
dynamic breath-hold Magnetic Resonance (MR)
Andrew (Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck S)
imaging to elucidate the respiratory mechanism in


TSE Man Kit Gary (Anatomical &

VAN HASSELT Charles
AHUJA Anil Tejbhan
patients with AIS compared with healthy individuals.
 1 January 2007
Significant reduction in inspiratory, expiratory lung
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
volume and diaphragmatic heights in AIS patients
with severe curve but the change in lung volume was
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is endemic in
not affected.
Hong Kong. Many patients are refereed to hospital
The chest wall and diaphragmatic
for investigation of suspected NPC because they have
symptoms from the head and neck, or they have had a
Faculty of Medicine
234
Dept of Diagnostic Radiology & Organ Imaging
positive result from a blood test used to screen for the
Therapeutics)
disease. Fortunately, only a small number of these
Therapeutics)
patients turn out to have NPC.
However, in order to

YU Cheuk Man (Medicine &
 1 October 2006
exclude NPC, patients undergo endoscopy to inspect
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
the nasopharynx, followed by an endoscopic guided
biopsy (removal of small tissue samples). Even in
Ischaemic heart disease caused significant coronary
cases where no cancer is identified on inspection,
artery
biopsy is essential to sample various sites within the
morbidity in our society. It is also the second killer
nasopharynx in an attempt to detect small cancers just
after cancer in our locality.
below the surface of the nasopharynx.
present with non-specific symptoms and cardiogenic
guided
biopsy
is
invasive,
Endoscopic
unpleasant,
stenosis
is
associated
with
significant
Patients very often
time
chest pain could be difficult to be differentiated from
consuming, associated with a risk of haemorrhage
non-cardiogenic chest pain. Cardiac catheterisation
and sometimes may require a general anesthetic.
delineating the anatomy of coronary artery has long
Even after taking several biopsies small cancers may
been accepted as the gold standard for documentation
be missed.
High resolution MRI (magnetic
of coronary artery disease. Early intervention might
resonance imaging) is a non-invasive technique that
decrease the mortality and morbidity and might
produces exquisite pictures of the nasopharynx in
improve the quality of life. Cardiac catheterisation,
10-15 minutes.
MRI is already used in patients with
however, is an invasive test and the patients have to
biopsy proven NPC to assess the local spread of the
be admitted into hospital causing economic burden
cancer. However, because its accuracy in finding
on the society.
small cancers is unknown, it has not been used to try
non-invasive imaging modalities including state of
to detect cancer in patients with suspected NPC.
the art magnetic resonance imaging and computed
The aim of the study is determine whether high
tomography can now be employed in the evaluation
resolution MRI can be used in patients with suspected
of ischaemic heart disease.
NPC to (1) screen out those normal patients who do
imaging might evaluate the perfusion of myocardium
not require an invasive endoscopic guided biopsy (2)
and ischaemia during rest and stress could be
aid in directing the site of biopsy in those patients
detected.
with small cancers that cannot be seen through the
allows
endoscope and may be missed by sampling biopsies.
morphological assessment of coronary artery can be
(CU06457)
performed.
With advances in technology,
Magnetic resonance
Multi-detector computed tomography
sub-millimeter
spatial
resolution
and
The degree of stenosis, length of
stenosis and site of stenosis could be demonstrated
Prediction of Coronary Artery Intervention by the
and intervention could be planned accordingly. In
State of Art Imaging: Magnetic Resonance
this study, we are assessing the predictability of
Perfusion
intervention by both magnetic resonance perfusion
and
64
Detector
Computed
and computed tomography angiography and assess
Tomography Angiography
the feasibility of replacement of diagnostic cardiac
 LAM Wai Man Wynnie

catheterisation
CHAN Wai Man
Wilson (Medicine & Therapeutics)  WONG Ka
modalities.
Tak Jeffrey
(CU06458)

CHAN Kin Yin (Medicine &
235
by
these
non-invasive
imaging
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Diagnostic Radiology & Organ Imaging
Man
Kit
Gary
(Anatomical
&
Cellular Pathology)
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
for more details of the following ongoing research
2004-05 Remodeling and Plaque Composition of
at the department:
Middle Cerebral Artery: Its Significance
Edition
in Development of Thrombotic and
Title/Investigators
Embolic Stroke in Patients with Middle
2005-06 Longitudinal
Cerebral Artery Stenosis (MD04753)
Contrast-Enhanced
Sonographic
Study
Lymphadenopathy
of
 LAM Wai Man Wynnie
Superficial
in
Ka Sing Lawrence (Medicine &
Lymphoma
Patients on Chemotherapy (MD05727)
Therapeutics)
 AHUJA Anil Tejbhan
Winnie
Augustine*


LAM Tsan

CHU Chiu Wing
LEI Ieng Kit Kenny
(Clinical Oncology)
Gregory

WONG


2003-04 Radio-Frequency Ablation for Better
ANTONIO
LEE Yolanda Y.P.*
Quality of Life (MD03435)

 LEE Sing Fun Paul
CHAN T.C. Ricky*
Simon

HO Sze Ming
LEUNG Sing Fai (Clinical
Oncology)
2004-05 Kinematics of the Osteoporotic Spine


CHAN Lung Wai
(Surgery)
(EE04301)
 GRIFFITH James Francis  YEUNG
2003-04 Prevention and Treatment of Ischaemic
Siu Wing*
Stroke by Endovascular Stenting of
2004-05 Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head
Intracranial
and Neck: Can In Vivo Proton Magnetic
(MD03571)
Resonance
 YU Chun Ho
Predict
Spectroscopy
and
(1H-MRS)
Monitor
Tejbhan



YUEN Hok Yuen#

Faculty of Medicine

YU Kwok
Hung (Clinical Oncology)

WONG Ka Sing
LAM Wai Man Wynnie
Wai Sang (Surgery)
AHUJA Anil
YEUNG Ka Wai Daivd

Stenosis
Lawrence (Medicine & Therapeutics)
Therapeutic
Response? (CU04300)
 KING Ann Dorothy
Vascular
TSE
236

POON
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
(MD06919)
RESEARCH PROJECTS
Do Apolipoprotein E Genotypes Affect the Risk of
Stroke by Altering Cytokine Expression?
DNAzymes for Treatment of Dengue Fever
 BAUM Lawrence William

NGAI Jenny*
 BAUM Lawrence William

CHAN Kay Sheung Paul (Microbiology)  LAM
(Biochemistry (Medicine))
Wai Yip (Microbiology)
Timothy


HO Yuanyuan
KWOK Chi Yui
 15 December 2006
 1 April 2007
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Grants)
Diseases
Purpose: To treat infections caused by single-strand
Stroke is the fourth most serious disease worldwide
RNA
virus.
as measured by disability adjusted life-years lost. It
are
is vital to understand stroke risk factors so that
viruses,
such
Objectives/hypothesis:
as
dengue
DNAzymes
oligonucleotides shaped like the letter omega, with
preventive measures may be developed.
the horizontal portion complementary to a target
We found that apolipoprotein E (apoE) isoforms E2,
sequence and the loop containing a fixed sequence
E3, and E4 affect inflammatory cytokine production
which has the ability to catalyze cleavage of the
in
bound RNA. This cleavage ability may be used to
expressing apoE2 or apoE4 expressed more TNF-α
attack the RNA that encodes RNA viruses.
We
(18-65%, p<0.05) and IL-6 (54-101%, p<0.05) than
propose to synthesize, test, and refine the design of
did macrophages expressing apoE3. Inflammatory
DNAzymes that could be used to treat dengue virus
cytokines may cause atherosclerosis and increase the
infection.
risk of stroke.
Design and subjects: We have already designed and
affect stroke risk. Indeed, we and others have found
synthesized DNAzymes against conserved regions of
that the apoE alleles corresponding to E2, E3, or E4
the positive-strand RNA of dengue virus type 2
isoforms affect the risk of ischemic stroke.
strains. We are now testing the ability of this first
control studies, the frequencies of apoE ε2 and ε4
set of DNAzymes to cleave dengue RNA.
alleles are generally increased in stroke patients.
Study instruments: We detect cleavage activity by
To help support or refute the hypothesis that apoE
observing fragments of the viral RNA on gel
genotypes affect the risk of stroke via an effect on
electrophoresis.
inflammatory cytokine expression, we propose to
Interventions: Incubating purified viral RNA with a
examine whether the association of apoE isoforms
DNAzyme.
with cytokine production that we observed in cultured
Main outcome measures: Amount of cleaved and
cells also occurs in humans. We will select 200 of
intact RNA, as measured by intensity of bands on
the participants in an ongoing longitudinal community
Northern blots and by quantity of RNA by RT-PCR.
study (the MrOs study) who had a stroke any time after
Analysis: ANOVA
enrollment, and an equal number who did not have a
transfected,
cultured
cells.
Macrophages
Therefore, apoE genotypes might
In case
stroke. We will measure levels of apoE, IL-6, and
237
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
TNF-α in serum samples collected and frozen at
In this proposal, we aim to investigate the association
enrollment, genotype DNA of subjects for apoE
between amylin gene mutations and islet amyloid in
polymorphisms ε2/ε3/ε4 and promoter SNPs, and will
type 2 diabetes using postmortem specimens.
then compare cytokine levels among subjects with
Human autopsy materials of 300 type 2 diabetic
different apoE genotypes.
patients and that of 200 nondiabetic control cases will
(MD06643)
be used to examine the following hypothesis.
Increased islet amyloid was associated with reduced
The Amylin Gene Mutations and Islet Amyloid in
beta/apha cell ratio and increased clinical severity of
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
type 2 diabetes and that these associations were in
part related to amylin gene mutations (S20G,
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana

IAPP-132G/A,
NG Ho Keung
(Anatomical & Cellular Pathology)

combination
ZHAO
-215T/G,
of
Q10R).
molecular
Using
biology
a
and
histopathological techniques, genomic DNA will be
Hailu  TONG Peter Chun Yip
used to determine the amylin genotypes and their
 1 January 2007
correlations with frequency and extension of islet
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
amyloid deposits, islet beta/apha cell ratio, and
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is characterized by islet
clinical severity of type 2 diabetes as reflected by a
amyloid formation consisting predominantly of
requirement of insulin therapy for glycaemic control
amylin (islet amyloid polypeptide, IAPP), a 37-amino
will be examined.
acid polypeptide co-localized and co-secreted with
important insights into the role of amylin and its
insulin by islet beta-cells.
There is accumulating
genetic determinants in pancreatic beta- cell failure,
data supporting the notion that amylin is central to
now widely accepted as a critical factor in the overt
the pathophysiology of Type 2 diabetes.
manifestation of type 2 diabetes.
Four
These results should throw
(CU06462)
mutations (S20G, IAPP-132G/A, -215T/G, Q10R) of
the amylin gene have been implicated in association
with type 2 diabetes. Synthetic S20G amylin forms
A
amyloid more readily than wild-type amylin and
Double-dummy,
exerts
The
Comparative Efficacy and Safety Study of
IAPP-132G/A mutation has been shown to enhance
Esomeprazole 20mg qd Versus Ranitidine 150mg
the transcription of the amylin gene and hence has the
Bid in Patients with an NSAID-associated Gastric
potential to increase the production of amylin. A
Ulcer when Daily NSAID is Continued (Study
pilot genetic-autopsy correlative study showed that
Code : D9617L00001)
greater
biological
cytotoxicity.
Multicentre,
Randomized,
Double-blind,
Parallel-group,
8-week
7% of type 2 diabetic patients with islet amyloid had
 CHAN Ka Leung Francis
-132G/A mutation compared with 0% in those
without islet amyloid.
Yiu
These data therefore suggest
SUNG Joseph Jao
WONG Wai Sun Vincent*
Grace LH*  LAI Larry H*
that genetically-determined qualitative or quantitative
changes in amylin can affect islet amyloid deposition
 1 May 2007
with resultant toxicity to pancreatic insulin-producing
 AstraZeneca Hong Kong Limited
cells.
Faculty of Medicine


238

WONG
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
Millions of people worldwide take NSAIDs each day
to treat inflammation and pain primarily due to
Diseases
arthritic conditions such as osteoarthritis and
rheumatoid arthritis.
Purpose: To investigate the relationship of serum
However, NSAID use has
hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA levels with the
been associated with a relatively high level of
development
adverse side effects, including the development of
liver
cirrhosis,
cirrhotic
complications and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
upper GI symptoms, gastric and duodenal ulcers, and
Objective / Hypothesis: We aim to study the serial
serious and fatal complications resulting from such
HBV DNA levels in a longitiudinal cohort of chronic
ulcers (e.g., hemorrhage and perforation).
Newly introduced NSAIDs
of
HBV infected patients to determine a level that is
that are selective
associated
inhibitors of COX-2 (i.e., celecoxib and rofecoxib)
with
increased
risk
of
developing
liver-related complications. We hypothesize that a
appear to reduce the incidence of gastric and
higher HBV DNA level is associated with higher risk
duodenal ulcers and ulcer complications compared to
of liver-related complications.
those that are not selective for COX-2 (i.e.,
Design and subjects: We have recruited and
nonselective NSAIDs, such as naproxen). However,
prospectively followed up a cohort of 426 chronic
the overall incidence of adverse events associated
hepatitis B patients since 1997.
with these agents remains high, and they may not be
All patients are
regularly followed up with biochemistry and virology
appropriate as monotherapy in patients at risk of
tests monitored. All patients are undergoing HCC
thromboembolic events.
surveillance program with regular alfa-fetoprotein
Esomeprazole is the first PPI developed as an optical
isomer which has the capacity to inhibit gastric H+,
and ultrasound abdomen examination.
K+-ATPase, the proton-transporting enzyme involved
residual serum samples are stored in -80 degree
freezer.
in the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
Instruments: TaqMan real-time PCR assay will be
The oral form of esomeprazole 20 mg and 40 mg is
used to measure HBV DNA at a range of 100 to
approved in the US, the European Union, China and a
1,000,000,000 copies/ml.
number of countries in the rest of the world for
Interventions: Serum HBV DNA will be measure at
treatment of reflux disease and in combination with
the baseline and yearly intervals.
antibiotics for healing of duodenal ulcer and
eradication of Helicobacter pylor.
Serial
Main Outcome Measures and Analysis: HBV DNA
In US and the
will be expressed as peak level, trough level, mean
European Union Esomeprazole is also approved to
level and area under curve for analysis.
treat and prevent NSAID induced gastric ulcer.
The
association of HBV DNA levels with development of
(MD06444)
liver-related complications will be determined.
Hepatitis
B
Virus
DNA
and
Potential confounding variables including clinical
Liver-related
(age, gender, cirrhosis) and virological (genotype,
Complications
basal core promoter mutations) will be adjusted. To
determine a HBV DNA cutoff level that has a
 CHAN Lik Yuen Henry  CHEUNG Siu Tim*
sensitivity of 90% with half width 95% confidence
 1 January 2007
239
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
interval of 3%, 385 patients will have sufficient
Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP),
power for the study.
Previously Enrolled in an Eltrombopag Study
(MD06680)
 CHENG Gregory  LAM Tai Pong*
Targeting EZH2/Stathmin Signaling Cascade for
 1 August 2006
Cancer Therapy
 GlaxoSmithKline Limited
 CHEN Yangchao

Chronic ITP is primarily a disorder of adult..
KUNG Hsiang Fu (Stanley
The
disease is characterized by a chronically low platelet
Ho CEID)
count (<150,000/µl).
 1 April 2007
Patients’ signs and symptoms
are largely, though not exclusively, dependent on the
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
platelet count. Patients may have few symptoms or
Grants)
may suffer bruising or purpura. The most serious
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause
complication of ITP is bleeding, which includes
of cancer morbidity and mortality in Hong Kong and
catastrophic intracerebral or gastrointestinal bleeding.
China. The enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a
These are uncommon when the platelet count is
member of polycomb-group (PcG) protein family,
above 30,000/µl but it is well recognized that the
has been shown to play a crucial role in embryonic
natural history of ITP in adults is highly variable and
development and cellular differentiation.
We
unpredictable in its natural history The main goal of
recently shown the critic role of EZH2 and its
therapy is the well-being of the patient and prevention
signaling cascade in HCC tumorigenesis (Chen et al.
of bleeding by elevating the platelet count to a “safe”
Hepatology, 2007, in press).
level. To date, the long-term treatment of ITP has
Using proteomic
technology, we showed that suppression of EZH2
been
resulted
corticosteroids,
in
the
down-regulated
(manuscript submitted).
of
stathminl
unsatisfactory,
and
involves
immunoglobulins,
immunosuppressive
In this proposal, we will
treatment
more
chemotherapy,
extend our study to further characterize the oncogenic
splenectomy
roles of EZH2/statminl signaling cascade and to
antibodies targeted against B cell antigens.
examine the therapeutic value of Lenti-shEZH2 and
Patients often respond to first-line therapies but
Lenti-Stathminl for the treatment of HCC. Finally,
relapse soon after discontinuation, requiring second-
we will validate additional downstream targets of
and third-line therapies.
EZH2.
significant clinical management problem.
Information gained from this study will
and
drugs,
recently
monoclonal
Refractory disease is a
All
advance our knowledge and provide new therapeutic
treatments to date are associated with significant
targets for HCC.
morbidity, and for some agents, mortality.
(MD06890)
administration
of
an
oral
agonist
of
The
the
thrombopoietin (TPO) receptor, such as eltrombopag
Dosing
olamine (SB-497115-GR), could reduce the severity
Study): An Extension Study of Eltrombopag
and duration of thrombocytopenia, reduce the
Olamine
requirement for steroids, The rationale for this
EXTEND
(Eltrombopag
(SB-497115-GR)
eXTENded
in
Adults,
with
proposed phase III study is two-fold: 1) to confirm the
Faculty of Medicine
240
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
short-term safety and efficacy profiles of eltrombopag;
with
previously
treated
chronic
and 2) to evaluate the long-term 6 month safety and
thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP).
efficacy of eltrombopag in the treatment of previously
(MD06836)
idiopathic
treated subjects with ITP.
(MD06730)
LENS – Long-term Eltrombopag ObservatioNal
Study – A Long Term Observational Ocular
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled
Safety Follow-up Study in Adults Who Have
Phase III Study, to Evaluate the
Received Study Medication (SB-49711-GR /
Efficacy, Safety Tolerability of Eltrombopag
Eltrombopag Olamine or Placebe) in a Phase II or
Olamine
III Clinical Study Evaluating Eltrombopag
(SB-497115-GR),
a
Thrombopoietin
Receptor Agonist, Administered for 6 Months as
 CHENG Gregory
Oral Tablets Once Daily in Adult Subjects with
Previously
Treated
Chronic
Idiopathic


WONG Siu Ming Raymond
CHENG Chak Kwan Arthur (Ophthalmology
and Visual Sciences)
Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP).
 1 March 2007
 CHENG Gregory  WONG Raymond*
 GlaxoSmithKline Limited
 1 November 2006
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is a very
 GlaxoSmithKline Limited
common hematological condition.
Patients have
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is a very
increased bleeding tendency and sometimes fatal
common hematological condition.
Patients have
hemorrhage. High dose steroid is usually the first
increased bleeding tendency and sometimes fatal
line of treatment with response rate of 30-60%. For
hemorrhage. High dose steroid is usually the first
patients
line of treatment with response rate of 30-60%. For
splenectomy, anabolic steroids, cytotoxic drugs,
patients
intravenous
not
responding
to
steroid
therapy,
not
responding
to
immunoglobulin,
steroid
are
therapy,
alternative
splenectomy, anabolic steroids, cytotoxic drugs,
treatment options. However, 10-15% of patients are
intravenous
alternative
refractory despite the above treatment modalities.
treatment options. However, 10-15% of patients are
These patients have frequent admission to hospitals
refractory despite the above treatment modalities.
with uncontrolled bleeding.
These patients have frequent admission to hospitals
thrombopoietin receptor agonist had been shown to
with uncontrolled bleeding.
increase platelet counts in patients with refractory
immunoglobulin,
are
SB 497115-GR, a
SB 497115-GR, a
thrombopoietin receptor agonist had been shown to
immune thrombocytopenia in preliminary studies.
increase platelet counts in patients with refractory
In animal models, there may be increased risk of
immune thrombocytopenia in preliminary studies. A
cataract.
randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase
study in adults who have received study medication
III study, to evaluate the efficacy, safety tolerability
(either active drug or placebo) in a phase II or phase
of
III clinical study evaluating eltrombopag.
eltrombopag
olamine
(SB-497115-GR),
a
A long term observation ocular safety
The
thrombopoietin receptor agonist, administered for 6
study will follow subjects for 2.5 years since
months as oral tablets once daily in adult subjects
completion of previous eltrombopag studies.
241
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
The duration of patient's participation depends on
(MD06429)
whether the patient is enrolled at the beginning,
Randomized,
Multinational,
Double-Blind,
middle, or at the end of the study.
Multicenter,
Placebo-Controlled,
The longest
duration is expected to be 50 months (just over 4
Two-Arm
Parallel Group Trial of Rimonabant 20 mg OD for
years).
Reducing the Risk of Major Cardiovascular
(MD06778)
Events in Abdominally Obese Patients with
Inhaled Pre-Prandial Human Insulin with the
Clustering Risk Factors
AERx® iDMS versus s.c. Insulin Aspart in Type 2
 CHOW Chun Chung Francis


KONG Pik Shan
Diabetes: A 104-Week, Open-Label, Multicentre,
LEUNG Linda*  LI Liping*  ZHU Rong*
Randomised
Trial
Followed
by
12-Week
Re-Randomised Extension to Investigate Safety
 1 August 2006
and Efficacy (Trial ID: NN1998-2161 Trial Phase:
 Sanofi-Aventis Singapore Pte Ltd
3a)
The purpose of this research study is to see whether
 CHOW Chun Chung Francis
an experimental drug called rimonabant, at 20 mg a
day, can help lower the chances of having a heart

attack, a stroke, or of dying from a heart attack or
Yuen Shan Angela#
stroke.
LAU Wing Yan
Rimonabant, at this dose, has been given in several
OZAKI Risa


KONG Pik Shan
YEUNG Chun Yip


CHENG
LUK On Yan Andrea

 1 September 2006
studies already, to more than two thousand patients.
 Novo Nordisk Hong Kong Ltd
It works on receptors (targets) in the brain and in the
fat cells. It does not affect the way patient digest
Subcutaneous insulin administration has been the
food.
only mode used in clinical practice in treatment of
Rimonabant
may
decrease
weight
and
waist
diabetes for nearly eighty years. Despite the fact
circumference (waist measurement), and it may, even
that today’s devices, including plasma glucose
without loss of weight or waist circumference, also
monitors, have substantially improved compliance,
improve other conditions that increase the risk of
frequent injections remain an obstacle for many
heart attack and stroke, such as diabetes and certain
subjects.
lipid (blood fat) abnormalities.
treatment in type 2 diabetes leads to suboptimal
Besides the current treatments, patient will have one
glycaemic control.
additional pill to take every day. Patient will have a
The development of non-invasive insulin delivery
50:50 (1 in 2) chance of receiving rimonabant and an
systems that mimic the physiological insulin profiles
equal 50:50 chance of receiving placebo (an inactive
is considered to improve compliance for subjects in
or sugar pill).
obtaining acceptable plasma glucose control by
Neither the patient nor the study
Poor compliance to intensive insulin
doctor will know which treatment the patient are
means of frequent insulin injections.
receiving during the study. This study is also called a
The AERx insulin Diabetes Management System
“randomized” study.
(AERx® iDMS), a breath actuated device for
administration of liquid insulin by inhalation has been
Faculty of Medicine
242
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
developed for administration of insulin at mealtime to
primary care setting, with two parallel treatment arms:
closely mimic the endogenous release of insulin.
standard clinical practice versus education on
®
AERx iDMS is a registered trademark of Aradigm
diabetes management using International Diabetes
Corporation or its affiliates in the United States and
Federation-Western
other countries. It is generally believed that the deep
“Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) practical targets and
lung (alveolar, gas exchange region) is the site of
treatments”. The study duration will be 12 months.
maximum macromolecular absorption, and therefore
General Practitioners (GPs) will be randomised to
this area of the lungs is anticipated to be the optimal
receive education on the IDF-WPR guidelines or to
site for disposition of the insulin aerosol.
AERx
receive no trial-related education. 400 subjects will
produces a fine particle aerosol and the device is
be recruited from ten Asian countries (China, Hong
constructed to optimise the amount of insulin
Kong.
delivered during a single breath and transport the
Philippines,
insulin to the desired parts of the lungs. The amount
Vietnam).
of insulin delivered during a single breath can be
The primary objective is to evaluate whether
precisely
steps
education about T2DM management using the
comparable to one subcutaneous International Unit.
IDF-WPR publication “Type 2 Diabetes Practical
The subject’s inspiratory profile must be within
Targets and Treatments, Fourth Edition” is more
specified flow/volume parameters for the device to
effective than standard practice in primary care
extrude the insulin, ensuring optimal delivery.
(general practice) for the management of T2DM.
The AERx device contains a validated data capture
(MD06616)
controlled
and
increased
in
Pacific
Indonesia,
Region
South
Singapore,
(IDF-WPR)
Korea,
Taiwan,
Malaysia,
Thailand
and
and downloading system enabling downloading of
data stored in the device, providing information on
Reduce Ventricular Pacing in Dual Chamber
date, time, dose of inhaled human insulin, and the
ICDs using AutoIntrinsic Conduction Search
flow rate and volume, allowing monitoring of
(REDUCE Study)
adherence to therapy.
(MD06830)
 FUNG Wing Hong


CHAN Chi Kin Hanmish*
CHAN Yat Sun Joseph

CHAN Chin Pang
GIANT : General Practitioner Implementation in
LAM Yat Yin  CHAN Wai Ling*
Asia of Normoglycaemic Targets
Man


YU Cheuk
 1 November 2006
 COCKRAM Clive Stewart

KONG Pik Shan

 St Jude Medical (Hong Kong) Ltd
CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana  TONG Peter Chun
Yip
An Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) is
indicated for the treatment of ventricular tachycardia
 1 March 2007
(VT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF). These two
 The International Diabetes Institute (IDI),
types of fast irregular rhythms begin in the lower
Melbourne, Australia
chambers (ventricles) of the heart. In VT and VF
This is a prospective multinational, multicentre,
the heart beats too rapidly and cannot deliver
cluster-randomised
oxygen-rich blood to vital organs. If the supply of
study
conducted
within
the
243
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
oxygen-rich blood is reduced, loss of consciousness
via
and death may occur unless the blood supply is
assessment
restored.
An electrical pulse or shock delivered
ciprofloxacin,
from the device through a lead (thin insulated wire)
azithromycin,
to the heart can stop the fast irregular heart rhythm
ceftazidime,
and restore normal function.
piperacillin/tazobactam,
The dual-chamber
Minimum
Inhibition
with
Concentration
levofloxacin,
moxifloxacin,
amoxicillin/clavulanate,
clarithromycin,
cefuroxime,
(MIC)
cefepime,
penicillin,
ceftriaxone,
imipenem,
pacemaker in the ICD is needed when the heart’s
trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole,
electrical system is not providing proper electrical
panipenem (in China only) and cefotaxime (outside
signals to the upper (atria) and lower (ventricles)
China only) among clinical isolates of bacteria from
chambers of the heart.
patients with Acute Bacterial Exacerbation of
The pacemaker delivers
electrical impulses from the device through a lead to
Chronic
the heart as needed to copy the heart’s own natural
(ABECOPD).
rhythm.
Several studies suggested that right
distribution of the causative bacteria from ABECOPD
ventricular apical pacing may have deleterious effects
patients in the targeted Asian countries will be
on cardiac function.
investigated.
One of the new features in the
Obstructive
amikacin,
Pulmonary
Disease
Furthermore, the prevalence and
Results of this study will help to
ICD is called “AutoIntrinsic Conduction Search”
develop evidence-based guidelines on the proper and
(AlCS).
optimal antibiotic recommendations of ABECOPD
When this feature is turned on, the ICD
allows natural heart rhythm to take over the
suitable
for
the
Asian
region,
based
on
contraction of the heart, which can lead to a longer
microbiological data through clinical screening for
battery life and may improve overall condition. The
causative pathogens from ABECOPD patients in this
primary purpose of this research is to evaluate the
region and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of such
effectiveness of AlCS on the heart to beat on its own
pathogens in this study.
more.
(MD06500)
(MD06767)
Evaluation and Control of Allergic Rhinitis IN
A Comparative Study of the In-Vitro Activity of
Patients with Asthma (CARINA)
Levofloxacin and 15 Other Antibiotics among
Bacterial
Isolates
Causing
Acute
 HUI Shu Cheong David
Bacterial

KO Wai San Fanny
Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary
TO Kin Wang
Disease (ABECOPD) in Selected Asian Countries
Michael*  NGAI Jenny*  WONg Carrie*

NG Susanna*


CHAN
 1 February 2007
 HUI Shu Cheong David
FOK Pui Chu Joan


KO Wai San Fanny
TO Kin Wang


 Merck Sharp & Dohme (Asia) Ltd
CHAN
Chio Ho Michael*  王迎軍*
This is a descriptive study to evaluate the proportion
of allergic rhinitis in patients with persistent asthma
 1 August 2006
who visit clinics for asthma treatment. The patient
 Daiichi Pharmaceuticals Co Ltd
who visits clinic during study period, aged 18 years
This is a multi-center study involving an in-vitro
and over, with and without allergic rhinitis and
surveillance of antimicrobial resistance, determined
eligible by inclusion criteria will be enrolled. Study
Faculty of Medicine
244
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
sample will include approximately 500 persistent
demonstrated to reveal the full spectrum of aerosol
asthma patients.
dispersion (as marked with smoke particle), from a
Two to three hospitals will
participate in this study.
high-fidelity human patient simulator during the
About 100-200 patients
who are eligible will be enrolled consecutively
application
without omission from the study commencement to
(including oxygen masks and nebulisers).
avoid detection bias in each clinic.
simulator
The number of
of
will
common
be
respiratory
programmed
apparatus
to
The
reproduce
asthma patients with concomitant allergic rhinitis by
conditions of mild, moderate and severe chest
ISAAC questionnaire will be counted. The severity
infections. Aerosol dispersion during non-invasive
of asthma, allergic rhinitis, physicians’ therapeutic
positive pressure ventilation and coughing bouts will
class choice for asthma and allergic rhinitis, asthma
also be examined.
and allergic rhinitis related resource utilization such
repeated in the ward with active scavenging system
as OTC medication and visiting doctor will be
and in an isolation room with negative pressure.
recorded.
The primary endpoint is the maximum aerosol
(MD06502)
(indicated by smoke) dispersion.
These experiments will be
This study will
evaluate the interactions among the types of
Aerosol Dispersion During Common Respiratory
respiratory apparatus, oxygen flow, lung injury and
Therapies : A Risk Assessment Model of
room ventilation on the spread of infected aerosols.
Nosocomial Infection to Healthcare Workers
This study promotes safe practice in the healthcare
workplace.
 HUI Shu Cheong David

Potential application of results: The study will alert
CHAN Matthew Tak
Vai (Anaesthesia & Intensive Care)

healthcare workers on the risk associated with aerosol
Stephen
generating procedures and facilitate clinicians to
HALL*
develop
 1 February 2007
strategies
for
preventing
nosocomial
infection. The study will provide important data for
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
engineers and architects to design a safe environment
Diseases
for the care of patients with chest infection.
(MD99564)
Purpose: Healthcare workers are concerned about the
risk of acquiring contagious diseases such as SARS
and avian influenza while providing respiratory
A
therapies to patients with severe chest infection.
Double-Mask, Double-Dummy Study Comparing
The purpose of this study is to assess the risk of
the Efficacy and Safety of Peramivir Administered
generation and extent of dispersion of potentially
Intravenously Once Daily versus Oseltamivir
infected
respiratory
Administered Orally Twice Daily in Adults with
We also evaluate the effectiveness of
Acute Serious or Potentially Life-Threatening
therapies.
aerosols
during
common
scavenging devices and negative pressure room
Phase
II,
Multicenter,
Randomized,
Influenza
ventilation to minimize transmission of infectious
 HUI Shu Cheong David  KO Wai San Fanny* 
aerosols.
Study design: This study will employ a novel laser
TO Kin Wang*

NG Susanna*

CHAN
visualization method that has been successfully
245
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Michael*

NGAI Jenny*

WONG Carrie*
nasal congestion, headache, myalgia, feverishness,

LEE Lai Shun Nelson  LUI Grace*
malaise or fatigue (these assessments will be
recorded on each day that the subject's medical
 1 April 2007
condition
 BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
allows
for
query
by
study
staff).
Participating subjects will be asked to provide a daily
This is a multinational, randomized, double-mask,
self assessment of ability to perform usual daily
double-dummy study comparing the efficacy and
activities (these assessments will be recorded on each
safety of peramivir administered intravenously once
day that the medical condition allows).
daily for 5 days versus oseltamivir administered
duration of hospitalization, indicators of possible
orally twice daily for 5 days in adults hospitalized
clinical relapse and incidence of mortality will also
with acute serious or potentially life-threatening
be assessed.
influenza.
(MD06351)
The
Subjects with signs and symptoms compatible with
acute influenza infection and for whom a positive
A
Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) for influenza virus
Placebo-Controlled,
infection is present will be evaluated for participation.
Assess Long Term (one-year) Efficacy and Safety
Enrolled subjects will be randomized to receive one of
of Tiotropium Inhalation Solution 5µg (2 puffs of
three treatments:
2.5µg) Delivered by the Respimat® Inhaler in
Treatment Gp 1: Peramivir (BCX-1812) 200 mg,
Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary
administered intravenously, once daily (q 24 hrs) for
Disease (COPD)
Randomized,
Doubled-Blind,
Parallel-Group
Study
to
5 days (5 doses).
Treatment Gp 2: Peramivir BCX-1812) 400 mg,
 HUI Shu Cheong David  KO Wai San Fanny* 
administered intravenously, once daily (q 24 hrs) for
TO Kin Wang*
5 days (5 doses).
Michael*  NGAI Jenny*  WONG Carrie*
Treatment Gp 3: Oseltamivir 75 mg, (oral suspension)
administered po, twice daily for 5 days (10 doses).

NG Susanna*

CHAN
 1 April 2007
 Boehringer Ingelheim Int'l Trading (Shanghai)
Randomization will be stratified according to two
Co Ltd
strata:
•
Transcutaneous
oxygen
saturation<94%
or
This study is a one-year multicentre, multinational,
=94%.
randomised,
•
placebo-controlled study to evaluate the long-term
Duration of illness =48 hr or >48 hr to =72 hr.
double-blind,
parallel-group
Subjects will be evaluated at least twice daily while
safety and efficacy of tiotropium inhalation solution
hospitalized to assess the criteria for clinical stability
5µg. This study investigates the pulmonary effects
(measurements of temperature, respiration rate,
of tiotropium inhalation solution, a long-acting
systolic blood pressure, heart rate and transcutaneous
anticholinergic bronchodilator, administered by the
oxygen saturation).
newly
At least once during each
developed
pocket-sized,
multi-dose
scheduled study visit day, subjects will be assessed
Respimat® soft mist inhaler in patients with chronic
by study staff for the presence and severity of each of
obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
seven symptoms of influenza- sore throat, cough,
Respimat® inhaler is a novel, propellant-free inhaler,
Faculty of Medicine
246
The
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
which is a new alternative to metered dose and dry
improves patient's blood sugar, compared to taking
powder inhalers. It has a unique delivery mechanism,
rosiglitazone and metformin alone.
which relies on a spring rather than a propellant or
Patient who is aged from 18-78 with Type II DM is
electrical energy to generate a slow-moving cloud
eligible for participating in the study. The enrolled
from a drug solution contained in a cartridge. This
patient will be in the study about 77 weeks (about 1
study will take place in to 36 countries worldwide and
year and 7 months).
at least 3000 patients with either sex, 40 years or older,
(MD06484)
and with a diagnosis of moderate to server COPD will
be invited to take part. Following an initial screening
To
visit, patients will be randomised into the one year,
Rehabilitation on Exacerbations, Hospitalization
double-blind treatment period of the study in which
Rates and Quality of Life in Patients Admitted to
they will receive either tiotropium 5µg or placebo.
Hospital with Acute Exacerbation of Chronic
This study consists of a screening period, a treatment
Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Study
the
Effect
of
Early
Pulmonary
period and follow-up period and requires a total of 15
clinic visits or contacts over a period of approximately
14
months.
A
questionnaire
(St.
 KO Wai San Fanny
George’s

HUI Shu Cheong David

DAI Lok Kwan David  LAU Herman*
Respiratory Questionnaire) will be completed by
 1 July 2006
patients at the randomisation visit and repeated after
 Hong Kong Lung Foundation
24 and 48 weeks of study treatment. Vital signs will
be measure on breathing test days.
Additional
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a
observations will include review of exacerbation
disease state characterized by airflow limitation that
status, adverse events, and concomitant therapies
is not fully reversible. Acute exacerbation of COPD
during the period of the study.
(AECOPD) with increasing symptoms like dyspnea,
(MD06815)
cough and sputum is the natural history of the disease
and incurs significant burden to our health care
In Hong Kong, COPD was the 5th leading
A Phase III Randomized, Placebo-Controlled
system.
Clinical Trial to Study the Safety and Efficacy of
cause of death, and accounted for at least 4% of all
the Addition of Sitagliptin (MK-0431) in Patients
public hospital acute admissions in 2003. Previous
with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Who Have
studies have shown that pulmonary function and
Inadequate Glycemic Control on Combination
quality of life were adversely affected by frequent
Therapy with Metformin and a PPARγ Agonist
exacerbations. Strategies to decrease the heavy use
of health care resources is urgently needed for the
 KO Tin Choi  TONG Peter Chun Yip
benefits of the patients and the society.
 10 August 2006
Pulmonary rehabilitation programme (PRP) is a
multidisciplinary programme of care for patients with
 Merck Sharp & Dohme (Asia) Ltd
chronic respiratory impairment. In COPD patients,
The purpose of the study is to test the safety of the
the programme can be tailored individually and can
research study drug, sitagliptin & test whether taking
optimize
sitagliptin, together with rosiglitazone and metformin
performance and autonomy.
247
each
patient’s
physical
and
social
Previous studies on
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
 KO Wai San Fanny
patients with stable COPD found that a PRP

HUI Shu Cheong David
including education and physical training could lead
LEUNG Ting Fan (Paediatrics)
to statistically significant and clinically meaningful
Kin Gary (Paediatrics)
improvements in health related quality of life and


WONG Wing
 1 July 2007
exercise capacity.
 Hong Kong Lung Foundation
COPD patients who just have experienced an episode
of acute exacerbations are at high risk of developing
Non-invasive assessment of airway inflammation has
another
been a hot research topic in recent years.
attack.
There
has
been
only
one
There is a
randomized controlled study looking at the effect of
growing body of literature on the role of fractional
out-patient PRP for patients immediately after an
exhaled
exacerbation. It has shown that PRP immediately
measurement.
after an exacerbation was safe and improved the
significantly elevated in subjects with asthma when
exercise capacity and the quality of life at 3 months.
compared to controls a decade ago.
However, the follow up duration of the study was
asthmatics with inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) results
short and thus the effect of rehabilitation on recurrent
in improved disease control, which is also associated
exacerbations and hospitalizations is not assessed and
with a reduction of their FeNO.
this information is important.
suggested that FeNO might be used to guide asthma
We would thus like perform a randomized controlled
therapy, and asthma control was not compromised
trial to assess if a short course (for 6 weeks)
despite the fact that the maintenance doses of ICS
out-patient PRP for patients admitted to acute
were significantly reduced.
hospital for AECOPD could have a positive impact
Correct interpretation of the FeNO value is important
on the patients by decreasing their health care
when using it for assessment of airway inflammation.
resources utilization (recurrent COPD exacerbations,
The production of endogenous nitric oxide (NO) is
hospitalizations
dependent the enzyme NO synthase(NOS).
and
accident
and
emergency
nitric
oxide
concentration
(FeNO)
FeNO was first demonstrated to be
Treatment of
A recent study has
A
department [AED] attendance) and improving the
previous study has found that NOS3 missense
quality of life of the patients over a period of 1 year.
sequence variant in endothelial NOS gene (G894T)
Patients will be randomized to either a control group
was associated with elevated FeNO level in a US
or PRP intervention group.
cohort (TT genotype had a significantly higher FeNO
It is hope that the information generated from this
value than GT genotype).
study will be able to give a guide to whether short
polymorphism (SNP) C5266T in exon 29 of NOS1
course PRP is effective for the patient (in terms of
was linked to asthma in Caucasians. Our group has
quality of life) and the health care system (in terms of
demonstrated that NOS1 C5266T and AAT repeats
health care utilization).
affected plasma IgE concentrations in Chinese
(MD06801)
children.
The single nucleotide
There is, however, no such information
available for the Chinese adult population. As there
Study of Exhaled Nitric Oxide Level and Nitric
is considerable ethic difference in genetic makeup in
Oxide Synthase Gene Polymorphisms in Normal
different racial groups, assessment of the relationship
Adults in Hong Kong
of FeNO and NOS in our own population is
Faculty of Medicine
248
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
 KONG Pik Shan  CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana 
important. There is also a controversial relationship
between FeNO and atopy.
TONG Peter Chun Yip
Previous studies on reference values of FeNO in the
Angela#
population are mainly limited to children. We have

CHENG Yuen Shan
 1 November 2006
compared the healthy school students of Chinese
 Roche Hong Kong Limited
descent and the healthy school children of Caucasian
descent in Hong Kong and found that FeNO were
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is a chronic,
significantly higher in the former. The data on adult
progressive and multisystem disorder affecting all
reference FeNO values are even more limited as we
ages and population groups. This is a condition that
could only identify two studies in the literature. Both
leads to an increased amount of a sugar called
studies were limited by a small sample size (about
glucose in blood. RO0728804 belongs to a class of
200 subjects( and none looked into other factors that
drugs
could affect FeNO, such as atopy and the genetic
mulit-center phase 2 study is to learn how effective,
make up of the subjects.
safe and well tolerated the study drug is in treating
The aim of this study is to establish the normal
T2D. Additionally, RO0728804 may also improve
reference value of FeNO in our adult population. In
the level of lipids (fats) in patient’s blood.
addition, the relationship between the FeNO in our
RO0728804 has been studied in animals, and to date
population with atopy and the NOS1 C5366T and
it has been given to at least 183 people at various
NOS3 G894T SNP will be assessed. FeNO,
doses, for up to six weeks, without unexpected side
spirometry, atopic status (by total IgE level and skin
effects.
prick test), and NOS1 C5366T and NOS3 G894T
The main purpose of this study is to find a safe and
SNP will be assessed in all subjects.
well tolerated dose of the study drug that will
FeNO is a promising non-invasive marker for
improve control of glucose in T2D patients.
assessment of airway inflammation, particularly
effects of the study drug will be compared to those of
asthma. By studying FeNO in our normal population
a placebo (an inactive substance that resembles an
and factors that may affect its levels (like NOS gene
active drug, but has no medical value), and a 45 mg
and atopy), it will advance our understanding of the
dose of Actos®, a medication known to effectively
potential role of FeNO in the clinical management of
lower blood sugar levels and approved in many
asthma.
countries for the treatment of T2D. Patients who pass
(MD07599)
screening will undergo a 4-week run-in period
known
as
insulin
sensitizers.
This
The
followed by a 16-week treatment period. During the
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel Group,
run-in period, a diet and exercise program will be
Placebo-Controlled
reinforced to the patient. Treatment duration is 16
Comparator
Arm),
(with
Open-Label
Dose-Ranging
Active
Study
weeks followed by a follow-up visit within 4 to 15
to
Determine the Efficacy, Safety, Tolerability and
days after the last dose of study medication.
Pharmacokinetics of RO0728804 (Dual PPAR α/γ
(MD06556)
agonist) Therapy when Administered to Patients
with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
249
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Sleep Duration, Neurohormonal Dysregulation
Results from this study will throw major insights into
and Obesity in Hong Kong Children and
the pathogenesis of this massive public health problem
Adolescents
of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases as well
as provide rationale for testing of new intervention
strategy.
 KONG Pik Shan  CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana 
(CU06465)
TONG Peter Chun Yip  YANG Xilin  LI Man
Chim Albert Martin (Paediatrics)
Wing Kin Gary (Paediatrics)
Kwok (Psychiatry)



WONG
WING Yun
A
LAM Wai Kei Christopher
Multi-Center,
Double-Blind,
Randomized,
Placeo-Controlled, Does-Ranging Phase 2 Study to
(Chemical Pathology)
Investigate
Pharmacodynamics,
Safety,
Tolerability and Pharmacokinetics of RO5073031
 1 January 2007
in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Treated
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
with a Stable Dose of Metformin
Rapid changes in technology, human behavior and
 KONG Pik Shan  CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana 
lifestyle over the last few decades have resulted in a
TONG Peter Chun Yip
dramatic increase in the prevalence of obesity
worldwide. There is also growing evidence showing
 1 February 2007
that childhood obesity may herald adult obesity.
Besides
social
stigmata
and
 Roche Hong Kong Limited
psychological
consequences, obesity is associated with increased
This
risks of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension,
parallel-controlled, multi-centre study that consists of
hyperlipidemia, sleep apnoea, cardiovascular disease,
three phases; screening phase of up to 3 weeks, 8
cancer and arthritis. Accompanying this global rising
weeks of treatment period and up to 4 weeks of
trend of childhood and adolescent obesity, there is
follow-up period.
amassing evidence suggesting associations between
The target population for this study consists of type 2
sleep deprivation, endocrine and metabolic changes,
diabetic patients, treated with an individual maximum
notably
obesity.
tolerated daily dose of metformin monotherapy
Understanding the nature of these associations will
(metformin daily dose of at least 1.5g, maximum not
add new dimensions to our current body of knowledge
higher than recommended in the label) for at least 3
relating to behavior and disease states. It will also
months prior to screening.
help identifying at risk individuals for surveillance and
There are six arms in the study. Patients will be
testing of new treatment strategies such as the effects
randomly allocated to the injected doses of
of improving sleep behavior on obesity and metabolic
RO5073031 5 mg, 10 mg or 20 mg every week.; 10
consequences.
mg or 20 mg every two weeks; or placebo every
Given the potential inter-relationships between obesity,
week. Due to the double-blind nature of this study,
metabolic syndrome and sleep disorders, we aim to
patients randomized to the every two weeks dosage
conduct a study to examine the relationships between
will
obesity, neurohormonal dysregulation and sleep
RO5073031 or placebo.
glucose
intolerance
and
disturbance in Hong Kong children and adolescents.
Faculty of Medicine
250
study
receive
is
a
randomized,
alternate
weekly
double-blind,
injections
of
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Primary Objective: To determine the efficacy, with respect
 6 June 2007
to glycemic control, of multiple doses and regimens of
 Pfizer Corporation
RO5073031 which, when added to metformin, are safe
and tolerable compared with placebo in patients with type
It is increasingly recognised that patients with
2 diabetes.
epilepsy may have a range of comorbid conditions
Secondary Objective : To compare the effects of
that can exert negative impact on their quality of life,
RO5073031 with placebo, when both are added to
including
metformin, on body weight and additional parameters of
disturbances. This cross-sectional survey will help
glycemic and lipid control.
document the prevalence of anxiety and sleep
(MD06595)
disturbances among a cohort of Chinese epilepsy
psychological
problems
and
sleep
patients. Prevalence findings will be correlated with
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled,
quality of life scores and other clinical factors related
Parallel-Group, Multicenter Study to Evaluate the
to epilepsy.
Efficacy, Safety and Tolerability of RWJ-333369
(MD06811)
as Adjunctive Therapy in Subjects with Partial
Onset Seizures Followed by an Open-Label
Genetics and Expression of P-glycoprotein and
Extension Study
Other Drug Transporters in Pharmacoresistant
Epilepsy
 KWAN Kwok Leung Patrick
Lawrence


WONG Ka Sing
HUI Andrew CF*

 KWAN
LEUNG
& Cellular Pathology)
 24 November 2006
(Surgery)
 Johnson & Johnson (Hong Kong) Limited
is
Leung
Patrick

BAUM
Lawrence William  NG Ho Keung (Anatomical
Howan*
This
Kwok
a
randomised,
placebo-controlled,
POON Wai Sang
WONG Ka Sing Lawrence

O'BRIEN Terence*
 25 June 2007
double-blind,
parallel-group,


multi-centre
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
study to determine the efficacy, safety, at tolerability
of RWJ-333369 as adjunctive treatment to partial
Despite antiepileptic drug (AED) treatment, one third
onset seizures.
of patients with epilepsy continue to have seizures.
AED resistance is believed to be multifactorial.
(MD06774)
One of the hypothesised mechanisms is the limitation
Anxiety, Sleep Disturbance, and Quality of Life in
of drug access to the seizure focus by a range of
Chinese Adults with Epilepsy
efflux transporters. These proteins extrude a wide
range of foreign substances, including drugs, out of
cells as a physiological host defence mechanism.
 KWAN Kwok Leung Patrick  LEUNG Ho Wan

LEUNG Wai Hong Thomas
Chung Edward


SOO Oi Yan

WONG Ho
Some of these transporters are present in the
NG Ping Wing
blood-brain barrier where they act as “gatekeepers”

to limit the accumulation of drugs in the brain by
HUI K.F.*
“pumping” them back to the blood stream.
251
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is the most studied drug
transporter.
Grant
It has been found to be upregulated
within certain epileptic brain lesions. Short-term in
 Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor
vivo animal studies suggest that some antiepileptic
drugs are substrates of these transporters.
use was associated with higher bone mineral
There are
density (BMD) in Chinese people. This
conflicting data from Caucasian populations that
suggested that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS)
variants of the P-gp gene (ABCB1 or MDR1) are
associated
with
drug
resistant
may have a significant influence in bone
epilepsy.
metabolism, but the exact mechanisms require
Discrepancies between studies might have resulted
further investigations. There is some
from the heterogeneity of the study populations and
experimental evidence that Angiotensin II
differences in phenotype definition. The pattern and
promotes osteoclastic activities. Angiotensin II
frequency of genetic polymorphisms vary widely
between different ethnic groups.
may also reduce perfusion of bone vasculature
Whether this
which has been associated with osteoporosis.
association can be demonstrated in the Chinese
We therefore hypothesize that angiotensin II
population is unknown.
receptor blocker (ARB) has a significant
We aim to examine the genetics and expression of
beneficial effect in male osteoporosis. We also
P-gp and other drug transporters in pharmacoresistant
hypothesize that ARB increases perfusion in
epilepsy in greater details: (1) by searching for
bone vasculature.
genetic variants of P-gp in patients with drug
resistant epilepsy among Chinese patients; and (2) by
A male osteoporosis model will be made by
measuring the level and pattern of expression of P-gp
orchidectomy
and other drug transporters in brain tissues removed
in
six-month
old
spontaneously
hypertensive rats (SHR) and the wistar Kyoto (WKY)
from patients during epilepsy surgery, and correlating
rats. The SHR rats and WKY rats will be randomly
them with genotype and other host factors.
assigned to have ARB or placebo orally once daily
(CU06466)
for twelve weeks.
The outcome measurements
include in -vivo BMD of proximal femur by pQCT,
The Effect of Angiotensin II Type I Receptor
Blocker
on
Bone
Architecture
and
biochemical bone markers, in-vitro bone architecture
Bone
of femur by micro CT and histomorphology, and bone
Vasculature Perfusion in Orchidectomized Male
strength of femur by mechanical tests. The changes
Rats
in perfusion rates of vasculature in vertebrae will also
be measured in-vivo by dynamic MRI at baseline and
 KWOK
Chi
Yui
Timothy

(Orthopaedics & Traumatology)
Yafeng*

QIN

Ling
4 weeks after the initiation of medication.
ZHANG
(MD06989)
ZHANG Ge (Orthopaedics &
Traumatology)

WANG Yixiang (Diagnostic
Radiology & Organ Imaging)

Influenza Virus Load in Hospitalized Patients
SHENG Hui
(Orthopaedics & Traumatology)#
 LEE Lai Shun Nelson
 30 June 2007
Faculty of Medicine

CHAN Kay Sheung
Paul (Microbiology)  HUI Shu Cheong David 
252
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
CHOI Kin Wing*  COCKRAM Clive Stewart 
supplemental
oxygen
or
ZHANG Mingdong (Stanley Ho CEID)#
prolonged hospitalization).
ventilatory
support,
Viral kinetics after
admission/treatment will also be described and
 1 January 2007
compared
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
between
patients
with
different
characteristics and disease severities.
Diseases
(MD06326)
Introduction: It is uncertain whether a higher
influenza viral load is present among sicker,
Identification of Proteins Forming the Gastric
hospitalized patients, who are usually of advanced
Cancer-Specific Serum Proteomic Fingerprint
age and have co-morbid illnesses. The relationship
between
virus
load
and
disease
severity
or
 LEUNG Wai Keung
influenza-related complication is unclear.

POON Chuen Wai

SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Objectives: (1) to determine the initial, pre-treatment
 1 March 2007
influenza virus loads among hospitalized patients,
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
and to study the relationship between initial virus
Grants)
load and disease severity; and (2) to describe the viral
kinetics and duration of viral shedding in hospitalized,
Recently we have explored the potential of
oseltamivir-treated patients.
non-invasive diagnosis of gastric cancer by using the
Design: prospective, observational study for 12
latest serum proteomic technology. With the use of
months (2 influenza seasons).
very stringent criteria, we identified five proteomics
Setting: a regional, university hospital.
features that are differentially expressed in the sera of
Subjects and sampling: all laboratory-confirmed
gastric cancer patients. The individual ROC curve
influenza cases admitted to the medical unit.
area of the five proteomic features ranged from
Clinical information and serial pooled nasal and
0.64-0.87 in the discovery set and 0.71-0.84 in the
throat swabs will be collected daily for 6 days or after
validation set.
completion of oseltamivir treatment.
combined to generate a diagnostic index, the best
Laboratory studies: immunofluorescence assay for
sensitivity and specificity of this panel of proteomic
influenza A and B will be used for the initial
markers was 83 and 95%, respectively.
diagnosis of influenza infection; virus isolation will
proposed study, we will purify these diagnostic
be conducted using MDCK cell line; influenza virus
proteomic features, and uncover their protein
load in all ‘pooled swabs’ collected will be assessed
identities by mass spectrometric approaches.
by real-time PCR technique. We have established a
findings
protocol for measuring the copy number of M-gene
immunoassays.
from clinical specimens.
(MD06928)
Data
analysis:
we
plan
to
will
When the five markers were
be
subsequently
In this
validated
The
by
compare
initial/pre-treatment influenza virus loads (adjusting
An
for baseline characteristics) between patients with
Parallel Group Study to Demonstrate Treatment
‘mild’ and ‘severe’ illnesses (e.g. development of
of Anemia using Intravenous Injections of
Open-Label,
Randomized,
Multi-Center,
complications, high symptom-score, requirement of
253
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
RO0503821 in Patients with Chronic Kidney
treated according to individual center practice. A
Disease Who are on Dialysis – ML20680
follow-up (final) visit will be performed for all
patients at study end (week 53) or at any time during
 LI Kam Tao Philip  CHOW Kai Ming
the study in case of premature withdrawal.
 9 January 2007
Thereafter patients should be treated according to
individual center practice.
 Roche Hong Kong Limited
(MD06872)
This is an open-label, randomized, multi-center,
parallel group study to demonstrate treatment of
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled,
anemia using intravenous injections of RO0503821
Four-Arm,
in patients with chronic kidney disease who are on
Multinational Safety and Efficacy Trial of 100mg,
dialysis.
300mg and 900mg of Abetimus Sodium in
The purpose of the study is to investigate
Systemic Lupus Erthematosus (SLE) Patients with
RO0503821, an experimental new drug being
a History of Renal Disease
Parallel-Group,
Multicenter,
studied by F Hoffmann-La Roche AG for treating
patients with anemia caused by chronic kidney
 LI Kwok Ming Edmund
disease. We will study the efficacy and safety of
 15 December 2006
i.v. RO0503821 treatment of anemia in patients with
 La Jolla Pharmaceutical Company
chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis. This
study is being conducted throughout mainland China
The primary objective is to determine whether
and HongKong, and is expected to last for at least
abetimus is more effective than placebo in delaying
2.5 years.
the time to renal flare in SLE patients with a history
Approximately 360 patients will take part in this
of SLE renal disease and who have high -affinity
study. 180 patients in the RO0503821 group, 180
abtibodies to the oligonucleotide epitope of abetimus
patients in the Epoetin Beta reference group. After
at baseline.
written informed consent is obtained, the patients
The safety and efficacy of abetimus in SLE patients
will be screened for eligibility over a period of 1 to 2
will be evaluated at weekly doses of 100 mg, 300 mg,
weeks.
and 900 mg weekly over the intended 52-week
All patients must receive iv iron
supplementation
during
the
correction/evaluation periods.
screening
and
exposure period.
The study consists
The secondary objectives of the trial are to determine
of a correction (dose titration) period of 16 weeks
whether treatment with abetimus is more effective
and an evaluation period of 8 weeks, followed by an
than placebo in delaying the time to Major SLE flare
extension
and to determine whether treatment with abetimus is
period
of
up
documentation of safety.
to
28
weeks
for
At week 25 (after 24
more effective than placebo in reducing proteinuria.
weeks of treatment), the responders of both the
(MD06750)
RO0503821 group and the epoetin reference group
will be kept on this treatment regimen for the
Activation of Intracellular Mitogen Activated
subsequent 28 weeks.
Protein Kinases in T, B Lymphocytes and
Non-responders in both
groups will be withdrawn from the study and will be
Faculty of Medicine
254
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Macrophages in Patients with Systemic Lupus
IL-18; and (3) relationship between the activation of
Erythematosus
ERK, JNK and p38 activity with SLE disease activity
index score. Analysis of abnormal intracellular
 LI Kwok Ming Edmund
TAM Lai Shan

signaling molecules in SLE patients may provide a
WONG Chun Kwok (Chemical Pathology)

biochemical basis for the development of therapeutic
(Chemical
strategy and surrogate makers for monitoring disease
LAM
Wai
Kei

Christopher
Pathology)
severity.
(MD06711)
 1 March 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
A
Grants)
24-Weeks
Prospective,
Multicentre,
Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototypic
Study of Dysport Injection for the Treatment of
systemic autoimmune disease characterized by
Upper Limb Spasticity in Early Stroke
dysregulated activation of both T and B lymphocytes
and subsequent polyclonal activation of circulating B
lymphocytes
to
produce
autoreactive antibodies.
a
large
quantity
 MOK Chung Tong Vincent
of
mechanism
T helper cell cytokines
for
lymphocyte
WONG Ka Sing
Lawrence
 1 December 2006
response in SLE is very complex and the intracellular
signaling

 Beaufour Ipsen International
and
macrophages activation requires further investigation.
ABCDE-S
Previous studies of intracellular signaling molecules
multicentre,
in SLE indicated the abnormal nuclear factor (NF)-κB,
placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy and
protein tyrosine kinase, protein kinase A, Src kinases
safety of one botulinum toxin injection (DYSPORT®
activity and defect of protein kinase C in T cells in
500 U) in early post-stroke spasticity. The primary
SLE patients.
object
Another study showed the B cell
is
trial
is
a
24-weeks
randomised,
to
evaluate
the
prospective,
double-blind,
efficacy
of
BTA
kinase lyn deficiency in SLE patients. This project
(DYSPORT®) injection in the reduction of excessive
will investigate the following aspects of peripheral
muscle tone of upper limb muscles.
blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from SLE patients:
objective is to (i) improve neurologic outcome by
(1)
of
improving mobility and function; (ii) alleviate painful
phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK),
muscular spasm; (iii) assess the safety profile of BTA.
phospho-c-Jun NH2-terminal protein kinase (JNK)
Male or female patients with moderate to severe
and phospho-p38 mitogen activated protein kinase
spasticity 2-12 weeks after stroke will be recruited. A
(MAPK) in different leukocyte subsets including
total of 162 male and female stroke patients will be
CD4+ T helper (Th) cells, CD8+ T suppressor (Ts)
included from Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore,
plus cytotoxic T (Tc) cells, CD19+ B cells and
Thailand, and Philippines.
CD14+ macrophages; (2) the activation of ERK, JNK
(MD06955)
assessing
the
differential
expression
The second
and p38 MAPK activity in Th, Ts, B cells and
macrophages and ex vivo production of Thl/2
A Phase 2, 12-Week, Double-Blind, Dose-Finding,
cytokines from PBMC upon the ex vivo activation by
Placebo-Controlled Study to Assess the Efficacy
255
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
and Safety of a Range of SCH 420814 Doses (1 mg
Therapy to Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors on
BID, 2 mg BID, 5 mg BID, and Possibly 10 mg
Cognition and Overall Clinical Response in
BID) in Subjects with Moderate to Severe
APOEε4-Stratified
Parkinson’s
Moderate Alzheimer’s Disease (REFLECT-3)
Disease
Experiencing
Motor
Subjects
with
Mild
to
Fluctuations and Dyskinesias
 MOK Chung Tong Vincent
 MOK Chung Tong Vincent


HO Wan Sze
Wency
WONG Ka Sing
Lawrence  YEUNG Hon Ming Jonas  LEUNG
 31 December 2006
Ho Wan
 GlaxoSmithKline Limited
 1 December 2006
Study AVA102670 is a Phase III, multi-national,
 Schering-Plough Research Institute
multicenter,
randomized,
double-blind,
placebo
This is an 18-week research study for patients diagnosed
-controlled, parallel-group study designed to assess
with Moderate to Severe Parkinson’s disease and also
the efficacy and safety of Rosiglitazone extended
experiencing difficulty in voluntary movements.
release
The
(RSG
XR)
as
adjunctive
therapy
in
purpose of the study is to assess the efficacy and safety of a
mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients.
range of doses of SCH 420814 when used together with a
Eligible subjects who are taking a stable dose of an
stable dose of L-dopa/dopa decarboxylase inhibitor to
approved Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (AchEl) will
treat Parkinson’s disease. SCH 420814 is a drug that
be genotypes, then assigned to one of the 2 groups
may prove to be effective in treating Parkinson’s disease,
based on APOE e4 status: those who carry at least
and therefore the sponsor is currently gathering data to
one copy of the APOEe4 allele and those who do not.
allow us to gain approval from the FDA and/or other
Subjects will be randomized equally to each
Health Authorities, so that SCH 420814 can be used to
treatment group relevant to their APOE e4 status and
treat patients in the future. In this study, we will be
will receive 8mg RSG XR, 2mg RSG XR, or
comparing 3 doses (1 mg, 2mg, and 5 mg taken twice a
matching placebo (daily). Study participation will
day) of SCH 420814 with placebo (sugar pill).
last a total of 58 weeks, consisting of a 4-week
Approximately 160 subjects will be randomized in this
screening phase, a 48-week double-blind treatment
study in approximately 22 study centers worldwide for the
phase, and a 6-week single blind treatment phase.
first part of this study. Following the Interim Analysis,
All subjects completing the double-blind treatment
we may add 40 new patients, for a total of 200 patients.
phase will enter the single-blind treatment phase and
The study is double blind, which means neither the patient
receive placebo once daily while maintaing their
nor the study doctor will know whether the patient is
AchEl regime.
receiving the study medication or placebo.
will be measured clinically using the clinical
(MD06993)
dementia rating scale, and psychometrically using the
Primary efficacy of the study drug
Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale - Cognition
AVA102670
–
A
54-week,
(ADAS-cog). Cognitive, health, activities of daily
Double-Blind,
Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group
living,
Study to Investigate the Effects of Rosiglitazone
pharmacology,
(Extended
pharmcogenomics are taken as secondary endpoints
Release
Faculty of Medicine
Tablets)
as
Adjunctive
256
resource
utilization,
quality
pharmacogenetics
of
life,
and
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
impairment and 40 healthy controls without cognitive
(MD06469)
impairment will be recruited. Validity of Chinese
Clinical Utility of Chinese Version of the Montreal
MOCA (CMOCA) and VCA will be determined via
Cognitive Assessment and Vascular Cognitive
comparison with their performances on formal
Assessment
neuropsychological tests. Discriminant ability, inter
Among
Chinese
Patients
with
and intra-rater reliability, and internal consistency of
Vascular Cognitive Impairment
the 2 tests will be determined. Technical properties
 MOK Chung Tong Vincent
WONG Ka Sing Lawrence
Wynnie
(Diagnostic
Imaging)
WONG Adrian
of these 2 tests will be compared against that of

MMSE.
LAM Wai Man

Radiology
NYENHUIS,


&
David
cognitive test that can be applicable in evaluation of
Organ
Lee*
This project aims to generate a brief
vascular cognitive impairment among our ethnic

group.
NASEREDDINE, Ziad S*
(MD06666)
 1 April 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Validation of Genes Affecting Type 2 Diabetes in
Grants)
Chinese Population
Ischemic white matter change (WMC) is endemic
among elderly.
Cognitive decline is a common
sequel of WMC.
With an ageing population,
 NG Chor Yin

CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana
SO Wing Yee

TONG Peter Chun Yip
cognitive burden of WMC will escalate. However,
Ching Wan Ronald
a brief cognitive test that is valid to evaluate vascular
Valgerdur*
cognitive impairment for daily management is
KONG,
lacking.
Gudmar*  YAU Wai Ip Ellis*
The
traditional
mini-mental
state
examination is valid for evaluation of dementia of



MA
STEINTHORSDOTTIR,
THORSTEINSDOTTIR,Unnur*
Augustine*


THORLEIFSSON,

 15 November 2006
the Alzheimer’s type and is insensitive to mild
 deCODE Genetics ehf
cognitive impairment or executive dysfunction that
characterizes
vascular
cognitive
impairment.
Type
2
diabetes
(T2D)
is
characterized
by
Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) was
hyperglycemia which can occur through mechanisms
recently adopted by the Neuropsychology Working
such as impaired insulin secretion, insulin resistance
Group of die National Institute of Neurological
in peripheral tissues and increased glucose output by
Disorders and Stroke as the cognitive screening test
the liver.
for vascular cognitive impairment.
Based on our
complications of chronic hyperglycemia including
experiences and studies, we had constructed a new
nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy and accelerated
brief
development
cognitive
test
—
Vascular
Cognitive
Most T2D patients suffer serious
of
cardiovascular
disease.
The
Assessment (VCA). The objectives of this study are
prevalence of T2D worldwide is currently 6% but is
to examine the validity of MOCA and VCA in the
projected to rise over the next decade. This increase
evaluation of vascular cognitive impairment among
in T2D is attributed to the increasing age of the
Chinese.
Eighty stroke patients with confluent
population and rise in the prevalence of obesity.
WMC and varying severity levels of cognitive
Family and twin studies show that there is a
257
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
significant genetic component to T2D. Therefore, a
epidemiology
study
hypothesis-independent genetics approach to find
anthropometric and metabolic phenotypes.
The
genes with common variants contributing to T2D risk
identification
their
may be one way to attain this goal. This project
independent and interacting effects with lifestyle
aims to study the T2D genes found from European
factors for obesity and related metabolic disorders in
populations and validate in our Chinese population.
Hong Kong adolescents will provide important
(MD06892)
information on the pathogenesis of related diseases.
of
consisting
genetic
markers
of
detailed
and
This will enable early diagnosis and exploration of
Candidate Gene Study for Adiposity in Hong
novel therapeutics measures.
Kong Chinese Adolescents
(MD06601)
 NG Chor Yin
Deciphering the Membrane Proteome of Rat Liver

WAYE Mary Miu Yee
(Biochemistry (Medicine))

GULDAN Georgia
 POON Chuen Wai
Sue (Biochemistry (Science))  KONG Pik Shan

CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana
 1 March 2007
 1 March 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Grants)
Grants)
Liver is one of the vital organs in mammals.
There is now an epidemic of obesity and associated
Deciphering the proteome (global expression pattern
metabolic disorders affecting an increasingly young
of proteins) of liver will lead to a better understanding
population in Hong Kong. At the onset of puberty,
of the function of liver.
there is a rise in growth hormone (GH) level, which
proteins are receptors regulating the cell proliferation
promotes growth and reproductive adaptation in
signals, detail analysis of liver cancer-specific
adolescents, via the insulin-like growth factor (IGFl)
membrane proteins may lead to identification of
pathways.
novel therapeutic targets.
Both GH and IGFl have been reported to
As many of membrane
However, owing to the
be related with body composition and insulin actions.
unique physicochemical properties of membrane
We hypothesize that genetic variations in the genes
proteins, comprehensive analysis of membrane
encoding the GH-IGF1 axis are associated with the
proteome has been being a difficult task.
susceptibility for obesity and related disorders. In
proposed study, we plan to establish a reliable
addition, genes that regulate food intake and energy
methodology for deciphering the membrane proteome
expenditure are good candidates for obesity, with
of liver by using the rat as the animal model. The
lifestyle factors such as dietary pattern that may
outcome of this study will form the technology
modify the genetic effect. In this study, we aim to
platform for subsequently comparative analysis of
investigate the association of these genes with
membrane proteomes between normal liver and liver
obesity and related metabolic traits, as well as the
cancer tissues.
interaction between genetic variants and lifestyle in
(MD06810)
modulating adiposity in 500 Hong Kong Chinese
adolescents randomly selected from our previous
Faculty of Medicine
258
In this
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Early Diagnosis of Gastrointestinal Cancer:
another Key Laboratory in Gastrointestinal
Endoscopic and Molecular Approach
Cancer in China.
3.
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
YU Jun


LEUNG Wai Keung
POON Chuen Wai

Our ongoing research on the development of
novel

non-invasive
gastrointestinal
NG Kai On
diagnostic
cancer
tests
including
for
proteomic
CHAN Lik
markers for gastric and liver cancer and stool
Yuen Henry  NG Enders Kwok-wai (Surgery) 
markers for colorectal cancer will lead the way
CHIU Wai Yan Philip (Surgery)
NG Siu Man
towards important medical discoveries. We are
TO Ka Fai (Anatomical &
applying for a patent in viral marker for HCC.
(Institute of Digestive Disease)
Simon (Surgery)



Licensing of the marker is under negotiation with
Cellular Pathology)
a biotech company. We will also consider filing
 1 July 2006
a patent on our proteomic markers the future.
 Focused Investments Scheme - Major Area of
4.
Biomedical Sciences
The
Institute
of
Digestive
Disease
has
established a working group with over 10 Asian
Overall Goals and Deliverables in 6 Years
countries on the study of colorectal cancer in
1.
To establish the use of endoscopic diagnostic
Asia. We are alos forming a working party on
tool (e.g. narrow band imaging) on early
gastric cancer screening. These establishments
diagnosis of gastric and colorectal cancers.
will put Hong Kong at the forefront of GI cancer
To identify serum biomarkers for early diagnosis
research and screening.
2.
(MD06436)
and monitoring of gastrointestinal cancer.
3.
4.
To identify stool markers for screening of
colorectal cancer.
Collaboration with Evivar on Hepatitis B Virus
Through the above, we will recommend
Drug Resistance Mutation Detection
authorities in healthcare services to promote
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu  CHAN Lik Yuen Henry
prevention and early cancer detection.
 11 December 2006
Long-term Vision
1.
2.
 Evivar Medical Pty Limited
In collaboration with our colleagues in Clinical
Oncology, Chemical Pathology, and Anatomical
We will collaborate with Evivar on the use the
&
establish
SeqHepB in the determination of drug resistance
partnership with Zhongshan University on the
mutations among patients on anti-viral drugs in Hong
development of a Key Laboratory in Cancer
Kong.
Research.
HBV DNA extraction and sequencing of HBV
Our close ties and partnership with Xijing
polymerase gene. Clinical and HBV genomic data
Hospital of the Fourth Military University in
will be sent to Evivar and the HBV mutations will be
Xian-the top center in Gastroenterology and the
determined from the SeqHepB database. A cost will
Peking University School of Oncology will
be charged by CUHK and Evivar from the patients for
further strengthen our position in Greater China
this service.
Cellular
Pathology,
we
will
CUHK will provide laboratory service of
Our collaboration also agrees on the
and will put us in a better position to apply for
259
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
sharing of database as well as patent in case new
identify the effects of dosing on various subgroups of
mutations are found under this project.
dialysis patients.
(MD06789)
Design:
Open-label
randomized
controlled,
multicentre study.
A Study on the Current Practice of Physicians
Setting:
A multicentre study in Hong Kong.
Treating Hepatitis in Asia Pacific Region
Participants: Peritoneal dialysis patients recruited
from three dialysis units, all of them being
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
serologically negative for hepatitis B surface antigen
 1 May 2007
(HBsAg) and antibody to hepatitis core antigen
(anti-HBc) with no history of receiving hepatitis B
 Unrestricted Grant from SOL Limited (Hong
vaccination .
Kong Branch)
Interventions: Half of subjects randomly assigned to
The objective of the project is to further the
receive 80 microgram Engerix-B intramuscularly in a
awareness and understanding of the current treatment
three-dose schedule at 0, 1, and 6 months, and
of hepatitis in Hong Kong and round the Asia Pacific
another half assigned to 40 microgram each in an
region.
otherwise identical manner.
The project would entail developing a
current treatment survey, distributing the survey via
Main outcome measures: seroconversion, defined as
electronic means to colleagues in Hong Kong and the
hepatitis B surface antibody anti-HBs level ≥ 10
Asia Pacific and analyzing the results.
IU/L 3 months after completion of the third dose,
(MD06391)
and the persistence of protective anti-HBs 12 months
after completion of the third dose.
(MD06858)
Does Extra-High Dose Hepatitis B Vaccination
Confer
Longer
Serological
Protection
in
Detection of Circulating Endothelial Cells by
Peritoneal Dialysis Patients?
Peripheral
Blood
Endothelium-Specific
Gene
Expression Study in Renal Failure Patients
 SZETO Cheuk Chun  CHOW Kai Ming
 18 August 2006
 SZETO Cheuk Chun
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
 1 March 2007
Diseases
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Objective: To determine the optimum strategy of
recombinant
hepatitis
B
vaccination
in
Grants)
the
maintenance of protective anti-HBs antibody among
Cardiovascular disease is the major cause of
end-stage renal disease patients on peritoneal dialysis.
mortality in renal failure patients.
First, this study is designed to establish whether
show that circulating endothelial cells (CECs) is a
three-dose schedule of 80 microgram Engerix-B
sensitive and specific measure of endothelial injury.
vaccine could maintain protective antibody response
However, enumeration of CEC requires flow
among dialysis patients.
cytometry and secondary staining, which are labor
Secondary aim is to
Recent studies
intensive. We hypothesize that the peripheral blood
Faculty of Medicine
260
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
messenger
RNA
(mRNA)
expression
of
The investigator (NT) led the discovery of OCTN2 as
endothelium-specific genes by real time quantitative
the causative gene in Primary Carnitine Deficiency
polymerase chain reaction (RT-QPCR) represents a
and revealed ancestral haplotypes and common
convenient surrogate of CECs and a useful measure
mutations in this gene in Chinese in 1999 and 2002
of endothelial injury. We plan to study 30 chronic
(Tang et al. 1999; Tang et al. 2002)#.
hemodialysis patients.
The peripheral blood mRNA
hypothesize that a different haplolype background
expression of a panel of endothelium-specific gene
across ethnic group accounts for the inconsistent
will be measured by RT-QPCR, and the result will be
findings and the true functional genetic variations
compared to the degree of arterial stiffness as
predisposing to AID is yet to be identified.
quantified by pulse wave velocity study as well as
Therefore, we propose to carry out a genetic
other serologic markers of endothelial dysfunction.
association study in 2 patients groups, SLE and RA
(MD06714)
to
clarify
the
genetic
predisposition
in
We
this
OCTN1-OCTN2 locus.
One Gene Many Disease – Study of the
(# The research in OCTN2 has been named
OCTN1-OCTN2 Loci in Chinese Patients with
Outstanding Research of the Faculty 2001/2002.)
Autoimmune Disease (AID)
(MD06560)
 TAM Lai Shan
A Pilot Study of a New Device for the Diagnosis of

TANG Leung Sang Nelson
(Chemical Pathology)

WOO Jean

LI Kwok
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea in High Risk Chinese
Ming Edmund
Patient Population in Hong Kong
 1 June 2007
 TO Kin Wang  HUI Shu Cheong David
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 6 March 2007
Grants)
 Hong Kong Lung Foundation
Genetic factors play a major role in predisposing
people
to
autoimmune
diseases
including
Purpose: A pilot study to validate a new portable
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus
sleep diagnostic device.
erythematosus (SLE) (van der Helm-van Mil et al.
Hypothesis: New home sleep study device provides
2005). These autoimmune diseases may share some
an alternative for inpatient sleep study.
common
Design: Prospective randomized study.
genetic
predisposition
dysregulation of immune system.
leading
to
A predisposition
Subject: Patients suspected of OSAS patients referred
locus in 5q31 was first found in inflammatory bowel
to a tertiary center.
disease, located to the gene cluster of OCTN1-OCTN2
Study instruments: Home sleep study: a portable
(SLC22A4-SLC22A5). Recently, haplotypes of this
sleep apnea risk evaluation system(ARES) and an
locus has been associated with RA and SLE in
inpatient sleep monitoring system.
Japanese patients but the association has been
Interventions: Patients with scheduled appointment
controversial as it was not replicated in other ethnic
for inpatient polysomnographic sleep study (PSG)
group.
would be invited to use the ARES concurrently for the
validation of the system.
261
This portable device is
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
chosen because it is feasible, to perform PSG and
concentration, which is thought to be the major
ARES concurrently for validation.
determinant
Concurrent
of
the
cardiovascular
outcome.
sleep study as such for validation has the advantage
Optimising this response in individuals by predicting
of eliminating the potential effect of night to night
the best dose of the best statin to use, or whether
variation in parameters of sleep studies.
Patients
other drugs such as cholesterol absorption inhibitors
also do not have to repeat sleep studies in different
like ezetimibe should be added or substituted is likely
time and places.
This is a pilot study for the
to have a major effect in preventing cardiovascular
validation of the portable device, and a subsequent
disease events. The variation between individuals is
cost utility assessment of the 3 models of algorithm
due to a variety of lifestyle factors including diet and
will be performed: 1) the conventional inpatient PSG
compliance with drug therapy and a number of
sleep study followed by autoCPAP titration in
genetic factors.
hospital; 2) empirical application of home autoCPAP
different effects on different statins, because of
for treatment and then inpatient PSG sleep study; and
differences in metabolism and disposition resulting in
3) home sleep study with the ARES followed by
differences
home autoCPAP titration.
This subsequent study
(pharmacokinetics), but the drug concentrations in
aims to assess the cost utility benefit of different
the systemic circulation do not always reflect the
algorithms for diagnosing and treatment of OSAS,
lipid lowering efficacy.
after validating the device.
related to the effects of the drug (pharmacodynamics)
Main outcome measures: The primary outcome is the
may be similar for all the drugs in the class.
validity of the ARES compared to inpatient PSG
Identification of genetic factors influencing the
sleep study.
response to 3 of the statins in current usage in Hong
(MD06662)
Kong
Some genetic factors may have
in
plasma
using
concentrations
Other genetic factors
a
combined
pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic approach should
Pharmacogenetics of HMG Co-A Reductase
provide information to help predict the most safe and
Inhibitors
with
effective drug for individual patients and whether
Combined
drugs working though other mechanisms such as
in
Chinese
Hyperlipidaemia:
a
Patients
inhibition of cholesterol absorption might also be
Pharmacodynamic-pharmacokinetic Approach
needed.
 TOMLINSON Brian

(CU06472)
WAYE Mary Miu Yee
(Biochemistry (Medicine))
Randomized,
 1 September 2006
Double-Blind,
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Multinational,
Placebo-Controlled,
Multicenter,
Two-Arm
Parallel Group Trial of Rimonabant 20 mg OD for
The statins are known to be safe and effective and are
Reducing the Risk of Major Cardiovascular
indicated for the prevention of cardiovascular events
Events in Abdominally Obese Patients with
in a large proportion of the population in developed
Clustering Risk Factors
countries.
However, there is a considerable
 TOMLINSON Brian
variation between individuals in the response to these
drugs in the reduction in plasma LDL-cholesterol
Faculty of Medicine
262
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
 Institute of Medicinal Molecular Design Inc.
 1 September 2006
 Sanofi-Aventis Singapore Pte Ltd
The purpose of this pilot study is to evaluate the
The purpose of this study is to investigate an
effectiveness and safety of an investigational product,
experimental drug, rimonabant, to determine whether
IMD-1041 in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
it can help to lower the chances of having heart attack
IMD-1041 is developed by Institute of Medicinal
or stroke, or dying from heart attack or stroke.
Molecular Design, Inc. (IMMD), Japan, for the
The primary objective of this trial is to demonstrate
treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The safety of
the efficacy of rimonabant versus placebo for
IMD-1041 has been tested in two phase I clinical
reducing the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, or
studies conducted in Hong Kong and United
cardiovascular death in patients with abdominal
Kingdom.
obesity at increased risk for such cardiovascular
and well tolerated in both studies.
events.
A total of 20 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
The secondary objective is to demonstrate
IMD-1041 has been shown to be safe
the efficacy of rimonabant versus placebo for
will be recruited.
reducing the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke,
IMD-1041 (2xl00mg capsule) twice daily for 12
cardiovascular
weeks and will be asked to come back for follow up 4
death,
or
hospitalization
for
They will receive a fixed dose of
cardiovascular cause (unstable angina, transient
weeks after the 12-week of treatment.
The
ischemic attack, cardiac rhythm disorder, congestive
effectiveness of IMD-1041 will be evaluated by
heart failure, syncope, or urgent revascularization
measuring the blood glucose and insulin levels in
procedure) in patients with abdominal obesity at
patients while the safety of IMD-1041 will be learned
increased risk for such cardiovascular events.
by routine clinical examination, laboratory safety test
Moreover, this study aims to demonstrate the effect
as well as by patient’s reporting of abnormal
of rimonabant versus placebo on all-cause mortality,
symptoms.
and to assess the safety of rimonabant in the study
(MD06968)
population over the duration of the study.
After starting study medication, patients will be asked
A
Multi-Center,
to see the study doctor at 1 month, 3 months, 6
Placebo Controlled, Dose-Ranging Phase 2 Study
months, and then every 6 months to the last visit at
to
the end of the study, a total of 50 months.
The
Tolerability and Pharmacokinetics of RO5073031
laboratory parameters will be measured from the
in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Treated
blood samples of the patients.
with a Stable Dose of Metformin
Investigate
Double-Blind,
Randomized
Pharmacodynamics,
Safety,
(MD06682)
 TOMLINSON Brian
A Pilot Study to Investigate the Efficacy and
 15 February 2007
Safety of IMD-1041 in Patients with Diabetes
 Roche Hong Kong Limited
Mellitus
Type 2 diabetes is a disorder characterized by elevated
blood glucose (sugar) levels. Onset usually occurs
 TOMLINSON Brian
after 35 years of age and it is associated with obesity in
 11 September 2006
263
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
more than 80% of those afflicted. The purpose of this
of these two formulations will be assessed and
study is to evaluate the safety, tolerability and efficacy
concluded
of multiple doses of RO5073031 (a new injection
bioequivalence studies.
medication) in which when added to metformin (a
(MD06308)
based
on
WHO
guideline
for
diabetic medication) comparing with placebo (with no
active ingredient) in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Pharmacokinetics of Single and Repeated Oral
The treatment will last 8 weeks. Suitable patients
Administration of S33138 20mg Daily in Chinese
will be randomly allocated into six groups to injected
Healthy Male and Female Volunteers
doses of RO5073031 5 mg, 10 mg or 20 mg every
week.; 10 mg or 20 mg every two weeks; or placebo
every week.
 TOMLINSON Brian
During the study, the efficacy of

CHAN Chung Ngor
Juliana  WONG Raymond SM*
RO5073031 will be determined regularly by measuring
 1 June 2007
the patients HbAlc value (a index for blood sugar
 Servier (Beijing) Pharmaceutical Research and
control), and patients’ safety will be monitored by
Development Company Limited
changes in: ECG, blood pressure, body weight and
clinical laboratory tests.
The purpose of this study is to characterize the
(MD06562)
pharmacokinetic
parameters
of
S
33138
(concentration, time for which the concentration is
Clinical Bioequivalence Study on Two Acarbose
maximal and time for which the compound is no
Formulations
longer present in the blood) in plasma at the dose of 20
mg in healthy young male and female Asian volunteers
 TOMLINSON Brian
after single and repeated administration. The dose of
 1 June 2007
20 mg was chosen as the maximal therapeutic dose.
Up to now, all clinical and phase I studies on S 33138
 Vickmans Laboratories Limited
development have been performed in Caucasian
The objective of the study is to compare the
healthy volunteers or schizophrenic patients. Prior to
bioequivalence of two acarbose formulations in
performing worldwide clinical trials (phases III
healthy
studies in patients) involving Asia, it is needed to
subjects
pharmacodynamic
by
effects
standardized test meal.
single-dose,
assessment
when
of
a
explore how S 33138 is metabolised by Asian people.
The study design is a
The study is to be conducted in 24 healthy young
two-treatment,
taken
their
with
three-period,
Asian volunteers known to be intermediate or
three-sequence crossover with washout periods of 1
extensive metabolisers for CYP 2D6 (12 males and
week. Subjects will be randomly assigned to three
12 females), between 18 and 45 years of age.
groups corresponding to three dosing sequences.
(MD06871)
During each study session, the subjects will be
administered a single oral dose of acarbose or no
Mechanism of Statin-induced Myopothies in
medication to be taken with a standardized test meal
Rodent Skeletal Muscle: the Possible Protective
after an overnight fast. Efficacy parameters will be
Role of Isoprenoids
generated and the bioequivalence or bioinequivalence
Faculty of Medicine
264
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
 TOMLINSON Brian  JAMES Anthony Edward
(Laboratory
These include geranylgeranol and farnesol.
The
Animal
Services
Centre)

proposed study thus intends to investigate the
Dewi
Kenneth
(Laboratory
molecular mechanisms of statin-induced myopathy in
ROWLANDS
Animal Services Centre)
order to elucidate whether coenzyme Q10 deficiency
or other intermediates in cholesterol synthesis are
 30 June 2007
involved.
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
(MD06424)
Grants)
The high incidence of atherosclerotic vascular
A Phase III Randomized, Placebo-Controlled
diseases in developed nations as well as increasing
Clinical Trial to Study the Safety and Efficacy of
prevalence in developing nations is a serious cause
the Addition of Sitagliptin (MK-0431) in Patients
for concern. Lipid lowering agents are believed to
with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Who Have
particularly useful in both primary and secondary
Inadequate Glycemic Control on Combination
prevention
Therapy with Metformin and A PPARγ Agonist
of
CVD,
with
3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme
A
(HMG-CoA)
reductase
inhibitors
(HMGRIs),
 TONG Peter Chun Yip

CHAN Chung Ngor
commonly referred to as “statins” currently being the
Juliana
treatment of choice for hypercholesterolaemia.
CHENG Yuen Shan Angela#  LI Liping*  MA
Although statins are reasonably well tolerated, there
Ronald*
have however been reports of severe liver and
CHAU Foo Tim*  CHINNAIYAN, Arul*
skeletal muscle damage as a result of high statin


KONG Pik Shan
YIP Chi Wai*


OZAKI Risa
YIP Wing Kin*


 1 August 2006
concentrations reaching the skeletal muscle, in the
 Merck Sharp & Dohme (Asia) Ltd
worst cases leading to rhabdomyolysis and acute
renal failure.
The precise molecular mechanisms of
About the study drug(s)
statin-induced myopothies however are still not
Sitagliptin is part of a new class of drugs to treat
clearly
considerable
diabetes. About 3250 people have taken either one
controversy over whether deficiencies of cholesterol
dose or daily doses of sitagliptin for up to about 24
pathway
since
months. Studies are still ongoing. Sitagliptin has
HMG-CoA reductase inhibition results in the removal
been generally well tolerated at the dose used in this
of a number of essential metabolites from the
study and at higher doses.
cholesterol pathway. One of the prime deficiencies
Therapies that enhance the incretin axis, including
suspected of leading to the statin-induced myopathy
DPP-4 inhibitors such as sitagliptin, have several
appears to be coenzyme Q10 or ubiquinone, an end
potential advantages over drugs that stimulate the
product of one of the side pathways of cholesterol
release of insulin.
synthesis, although this remains unproven. A more
insulin release and suppression of glucagon occur in a
likely explanation however is that the mechanism is
blood glucose-dependent manner. For this reason,
through some other intermediates in cholesterol
the risk of low blood sugar event was expected to be
synthesis, which are involved in prenylation of low
low—and this was observed in Phase II and Phase III
molecular weight proteins in the muscles cells.
studies of sitagliptin in patients with type 2 diabetes
understood,
intermediates
with
are
some
responsible,
265
First, incretin stimulation of
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
mellitus. Second, incretins appear to have a role in
CHENG Yuen Shan Angela#  LI Liping*  MA
appetite regulation, with weight loss observed in
Ching Wan Ronald
preclinical and clinical studies treatments, and
Ling Linda
resistance to weight gain observed in animal studies.
Sze Vanessa
Consistent with this expectation, Phase II and Phase


YIP Chi Wai*
LUK On Yan Andrea


YU Wai
NG Wan
 1 August 2006
III studies of sitagliptin showed a neutral effect on
 Merck Sharp & Dohme (Asia) Ltd
weight, compared to weight gain with a sulfonylurea
comparator agent.
This is an open label, multi-center 13 week study to
The purpose of this study is to: (adapted from main
evaluate the efficacy of switching to losartan/HCTZ
informed consent form and protocol)
combination in patients with essential hypertension
‧ test the safety of the research study drug,
whose blood pressure was not at the BP goal (BP
sitagliptin.
goal is defined as trough SiDBP <90 mmHg in
non-diabetics; <80 mmHg in diabetics) with previous
‧ test whether taking sitagliptin, together with
rosiglitazone and metformin improves your blood
monotherapy
sugar, compared to taking rosiglitazone and
antihypertensive medications (angiotensin II receptor
metformin alone.
antagonists or ACE inhibitors). Patients not at BP
with
submaximal
doses
of
About 300 people will be recruited in the study.
goal at the screening visit and baseline visit one week
Patients will be in the study for about 77 weeks
later will be discontinued from their current
(about 1 year and 7 months). There will be 14 visits
antihypertensive
and patients will be required to monitor blood
losartan/HCTZ combination. After 4 and 8 weeks
glucose at home during the study. All patients will
of treatment, if the BP goal is not reached then the
receive rosiglitazone (4 mg, once or twice a day) and
dose of the combination will be titrated upwards
metformin (500/1000 mg, two or three times per day).
according to the following scheme: HYZAAR
Patients will be randomised to receive either
50/12.5 → HYZAAR 50/12.5 + COZAAR 50 →
sitagliptin (100 mg, once per day) or placebo in a
HYZAAR FORTE 100/25.
double-blinded manner. In cases where the blood
(MD06935)
medication
and
switched
to
sugar level becomes very high, patients will be given
glipizide, a known treatment for diabetes to control
Association
the blood sugar.
Polymorphisms of Aldose Reductase and ApoE
(MD06579)
Genes for Nephropathy in Type 2 Diabetes
of
Glomerulopathy
with
the
Mellitus
An Open Label Study to Assess the Efficacy of
 TONG Peter Chun Yip
Losartan/HCTZ Combination Therapy in Patients
with
Essential
Inadequately
Hypertension
Controlled
Who
on

MAC-MOUNE LAI
Fernand (Anatomical & Cellular Pathology)
Were
ZHAO Hailu  CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana
Current
Antihypertensive Monotherapy
 1 April 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 TONG Peter Chun Yip
Juliana


CHAN Chung Ngor
KONG Pik Shan
Faculty of Medicine

OZAKI Risa
Grants)

266

Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Diabetes mellitus is the most common cause of renal
Prevention
failure in developed countries.
The heterogeneous
Cardiovascular Events of Ischaemic Origin with
nature of renal histopathologies in type 2 diabetes is
teRutroban in Patients with a History of
determined by multiple risk factors and polygenic
Ischaemic Stroke or tRansient IschaeMic Attack.
components.
The PERFORM Study.
Hyperglycaemia, hypertension, and
of
Cerebrocascular
and
An International,
dyslipidaemia are the major modifiable risk factors
Randomised, Double-Blind, Two Parallel Group
for diabetic nephropathy. The polymorphisms in the
Study Comparing Terutroban 30mg O.D. versus
hyperglycaemia-related
Aspirin 100mg O.D. Administered Orally for a
aldose
reductase,
and
dyslipidaemia-related apolipoprotein E genes confer
3-Year Mean Duration (Event Driven Trial)
a considerable risk for diabetic nephropathy.
In this proposal, we aim to investigate the correlations
 WONG Ka Sing Lawrence

MOK Chung Tong
between clinical characteristics, glomerulopathy, the
Vincent  LEUNG Wai Hong Thomas  SOO Oi
polymorphisms of these two genes, and their protein
Yan
immunolocalization in type 2 diabetes. We will use
Edward
consecutive autopsy materials from 100 patients with
 1 July 2006
type 2 diabetes and 70 non-diabetic control subjects.
stratified
into
glomerulosclerosis;
5
2)
groups:
1)
non-nodular
MAN Bik Ling

WONG Ho Chung
 Institut De Recherches Internationales
Based on histopathological assessment, the cases will
be

Servier/Servier (Beijing) Pharmaceutical
nodular
Research & Development Co Ltd
diabetic
glomerulopathy; 3) near normal glomeruli with type
The primary objective is to demonstrate the
2 diabetes; 4) non-diabetics with glomerulopathy; or
superiority of S 18886 30mg o.d. over aspirin 100mg
5) non-diabetics with near normal renal structure.
o.d., in reducing cerebrovascular and cardiovascular
Kidney
for
event (primary efficacy endpoint: composite of
The frequency,
ischaemic stroke [fatal or non-fatal], myocardial
distribution and intensity of positive immunoreactivity
infarction [fatal or non-fatal], other vascular death) in
will be examined. Genomic DNA will be extracted
patients with a history of ischaemic stroke (IS) or
from archival paraffin blocks from the spleen. The
transient ischaemic attack (TIA).
polymorphisms
be
The secondary objectives are to assess the effect of S
determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
18886 on the other efficacy endpoints and its safety, as
The frequency of alleles and genotypes will be
well as on prevention of cognitive decline and
compared in the 5 groups in relation to the
dementia.
immunohistochemical staining, glomerulopathy, and
Methodology: Randomised, double-blind, two-parallel
clinical characteristics.
groups, controlled study versus aspirin.
tissue
sections
will
immunohistochemical staining.
of
these
four
be
genes
used
will
This investigation will
provide a model to characterize disease genes by
Estimated total: 18,000 patients (9,000 per treatment
systematically correlating among genotype, protein
group), to be adapted according to the number of observed
expression, histopathology, and clinical phenotype.
events.
(MD06594)
Mean duration: 3 years - Minimum durations 2 years,
Maximum duration 4 years (could be extended up to
5 Years).
267
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
The duration of patient’s participation depends on
(MD06577)
whether the patient is enrolled at the beginning, middle,
Randomized,
Multinational,
Double-Blind,
Placebo-Controlled,
or at the end of the study. The longest duration is
Multicenter,
expected to be 50 months (just over 4 years).
Two-Arm
Parallel Group Trial of Rimonabant 20 mg OD for
At the first study visit, the doctor will collect information
Reducing the Risk of Major Cardiovascular
about medical history, especially about nervous system
Events in Abdominally Obese Patients with
and moods. A physical exam will be done. Patient’s
Clustering Risk Factors
height, weight, waist circumference, heart rate, and blood
pressure will be measured. Patient will have an ECG
 WONG Ka Sing Lawrence  LEUNG Wai Hong
(also called an EKG, electrocardiogram, or heart tracing)
Thomas  MOK Chung Tong Vincent  LEUNG
done, and about 1 tablespoon of blood will be taken for a
Ho Wan  WONG Ho Chung Edward  SOO Oi
blood count, and for liver and kidney tests.
Yan  MAN Bik Ling
woman of childbearing potential, a urine pregnancy
For
test must be negative for patient to participate.
 1 September 2006
After starting study medication, patient will be asked
 Sanofi-Aventis Singapore Pte Ltd
to see study doctor at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months,
The purpose of this research study is to see whether
and then every 6 months to the last visit at the end of the
an experimental drug called rimonabant, at 20 mg a
study. At each visit, general condition will be checked,
day, can help lower the chances of having a heart attack,
including nervous system and moods, heart rate and
a stroke, or of dying from a heart attack or stroke.
blood pressure will be measured while lying down,
Rimonabant, at this dose, has been given in several
and a record will be made of the medications taking,
studies already, to more than two thousand patients.
including study medication. At the visits occurring
It works on receptors (targets) in the brain and in the fat
every 6 months and at the last visit, about 1
cells. It does not affect the way patient digest food.
tablespoon of blood will be taken for the blood cell
Rimonabant
waist
count and liver and kidney tests, weight and waist
circumference (waist measurement), and it may, even
circumference will be measured, and will have a physical
without loss of weight or waist circumference, also
exam.
improve other conditions that increase the risk of heart
another ECG (heart tracing) done.
attack and stroke, such as diabetes and certain lipid
month until the end of the study, patient will also be
(blood fat) abnormalities.
called by phone between each 6-month visit by either
Besides the current treatments, patient will have one
the study doctor or the study nurse.
additional pill to take every day. Patient will have a
(MD06315)
may
decrease
weight
and
At the next to last visit, patient will have
From the ninth
50:50 (1 in 2) chance of receiving rimonabant and an
equal 50:50 chance of receiving placebo (an inactive or
A
sugar pill). Neither the patient nor the study doctor
Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group
will know which treatment the patient are receiving
Study to Evaluate the Efficacy, Safety and
during the study.
Tolerability of Pregabalin (150-600 mg/day) Using
This study is also called a
“randomized” study.
Faculty of Medicine
13-Week,
Randomized,
Multi-Center,
a Flexible Dosing Schedule in the Treatment of
268
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Subjects with Central Post-Stroke Pain (CPSP)
#A0081063
CADENZA
 WONG Ka Sing Lawrence  LEUNG Wai Hong
 WOO Jean
Thomas  MOK Chung Tong Vincent  LEUNG

KWOK Chi Yui Timothy

LAU
YL Alexander*  CHAN Tan, Jessica*
Ho Wan  WONG Ho Chung Edward
 10 August 2006
 1 September 2006
 The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust
 Pfizer Corporation Hong Kong Limited
The purpose of the project is to revolutionise the way
The study is designed to explore the effectiveness and
society views its elders, the current mode of care for
tolerability of pregabalin on the central nerve pain
the elderly, existing services and facilities, and the
patients are experiencing after stroke.
The study
excessive reliance on the medical model of care.
will also evaluate the occurrence of any side effects
The attitude and mindset of the general public have to
whether or not they might be related to pregabalin.
be changed.
The study will also assess whether patients will
summarized below:
experience improvement in sleep, general health, and

The objectives of the project are
to train different levels of professionals and
on symptoms of anxiety and depression.
front-line workers involved in elderly work, not
This is a 13-week, randomized, multi-center,
only in terms of skills, but also in the way they
double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial
view and treat the people they serve;
of pregabalin in adult subjects (18 years and over)
with central post-stroke pain (CPSP).

Subjects who
rather than a “social problem”;
meet all of the eligibility criteria will enter the trial

which consist of 4 phases:
2-week screening and washout phase;
2.
4-week
double-blind,

placebo
to devise new services in response to changing
needs;
controlled flexible dose adjustment phase,

to plan for a generation of soon-to-be-old whilst
during which subjects start on 150 mg/day
enhancing skills and services for the existing
pregabalin (or matching placebo) and may
elderly population; and
increase to a maximum of 600 mg/day

pregabalin (or matching placebo);
3.
to encourage and promote inter-generational
accommodation and understanding;
1.
randomized,
to look at the elderly trend as “social growth”
8-week
randomized,
to cultivate and nurture academic leadership in
social gerontology so as to bolster the standard
double-blind,
and image of the profession of dealing with the
placebo-controlled treatment maintenance phase
aged and all ageing-related services.
(dose of pregabalin remains constant at 150
(MD06911)
mg/day, 300 mg/day, or 600 mg /day or
4.
matching placebo); and
Ageing and Utilisation of Hospital Services in
1-week taper double-blind, placebo-controlled
Hong Kong: Retrospective Cohort Study
treatment phase (either pregabalin 150 mg/day or
matching placebo).
 WOO Jean
(MD06880)

GOGGINS III William Bernard
(The Nethersole School of Nursing)
269

ZHANG
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Xin-Hua (Community and Family Medicine)
GRIFFITHS Sian
Meryl
Pantoprazole Sodium 40 mg o.d. over 8 Weeks

(Community and
(BY1023/M3-341)
Family Medicine)
 WU Che Yuen Justin  WONG Lai Hung
 1 November 2006
Hin
 Health & Health Services Research Fund

任兵*

LEUNG Wai Keung


LAI
LEE Yuk
Tong
Objectives: The increasing of life expectancy in Hong
 1 July 2006
Kong inevitably increase the number of elderly
 ALTANA Pharma AG Regional Office-Asia
patients because of the exponential relation of ageing
and morbidity from common diseases. We aim to
Aim: Identification of factors (e.g. symptom patterns
use the days spent in hospital and the number of
and symptom scores) determining the response to
admissions to hospital services during the last 12
treatment with pantoprazole 40 mg o.d. as measured
month, 24 months and 36 months of life to estimate
by different methods (e.g. ReQuest™ questionnaire,
the burden of health care service by each age group; to
patient and investigator assessment).
take the health care service used as a surrogate of
Study Design: Treatment, Non-Randomized, Open Label,
morbidity from severe diseases amongest the birth
Uncontrolled, Single Group Assignment.
cohorts and time periods to exam if the prolonged life
Title:
expectancy was due to the compression of morbidity
Symptoms Due to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
(prolonged healthy life expectency) in elderly
Either With or Without Esophagitis Treated With
population, indirectly evaluate the effect of health
Pantoprazole Sodium 40 Mg o.d. Over 8 Weeks.
promotion measures in Hong Kong population.
Primary Outcomes: Response to treatment with
Design: Retrospective cohort study analysis of Hong
pantoprazole at week 8, as measured by the
Kong Hospital Authority CMS data base.
questionnaire ReQuest™.
Setting: HA hospitals.
Secondary Outcomes: Response to treatment with
Data se: All deaths occurred in HA hospitals during
pantoprazole at week 4, as measured by the
1999 and 2005 and the health care services used
questionnaire ReQuest™; investigator assessment;
within the Hospital Authority system by the decedents
safety and efficacy.
during the previous three years.
Participating countries: Argentina, Australia, Austria,
Outcome measures: The accumulated bed-days spent
Belgium, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Hong
in hospitals and the number of.admissions to health
Kong, India, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, Poland,
care services within the Hospital Authority system
Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea,
during the last three years of life, by age at death, year
Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom.
of death and the birth cohorts.
Expected total enrollment: 2000.
(MD06931)
Ages eligible for study: 18 and above.
Treatment
Response
in
Patients
With
Criteria:
Treatment Response in Patients with Symptoms
Main Inclusion Criteria
due to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Either

Written informed consent.
with

Outpatients of at least 18 years (21 years in
or
without
Esophagitis
Treated
with
Argentina).
Faculty of Medicine
270
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics

and other cells.
Patient considered to have GERD symptoms.
Transient receptor potential
Main Exclusion Criteria
vanilioid receptor 1 (TRPVl) is a TRP channel which

Acute peptic ulcer and/or ulcer complications.
is highly expressed in primary sensory neurons of the

Systemic
non-steroidal
vagal and dorsal root ganglia of the nervous system
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including
and epithelial cells of gastrointestinal tract. TRPVl
COX-2-inhibitors (> 5 days on demand but not
is sensitive to vanilioid molecules such as capsaicin,
more than 3 consecutive days) during the last 28
the hot ingredient contained in chili and pepper.
days before study start (except regular intake of
TRPVl also mediates visceral pain caused by
acetylsalicylic acid at a dose up to 163 mg/day).
mechanical stimulation.
Intake of proton pump inhibitors during the last 10
TRPVl in pathogenesis of IBS is still unclear.
days before study start.
The objective of this study is to evaluate the activity
Female patients of childbearing potential not using
and responsiveness of TRPVl to visceral noxious
adequate means of birth control.
stimulation in a rat model of irritable bowel
Pregnant or breast-feeding females.
syndrome. The findings of this project will promote



glucocorticoids
or
(MD06863)
However, the role of
understanding of the potential role of TRPVl as an
important mediator of visceral hypersensitivity in
Effects of Colorectal Noxious Stimulation on
development of IBS.
Modulation of TRPVl activity
Activity of TRPV1 and c-Fos Protein in a Rat
may have major implications on the development of
Model of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
novel effective treatment of IBS and other functional
gastrointestinal disorder.
(MD06563)
 WU Che Yuen Justin
 1 March 2007
Prospective Randomized Evaluation of Celecoxib
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Integrated Safety vs. Ibuprofen Or Naproxen
Grants)
 YIP Wai Kwok Gabriel
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common

YU Cheuk Man

LI
gastrointestinal disorder that is associated with
Kwok Ming Edmund  TAM Lai Shan  KWOK
significant morbidity and creates huge burden on
Lai Wa  CHAN Chi Yuen
healthcare resource.
Unfortunately, treatment of
 1 June 2007
IBS has been far from satisfactory and its mechanism
 Pfizer Corporation
is still poorly understood. It is generally considered
abnormal increase in sensation of internal organs
This phase IV, international multicenter, randomized,
(visceral hypersensitivity) plays an important role in
double-blind, active control, parallel assignment,
pathogenesis of IBS.
safety study aims to assess overall benefit and risk of
In recent years, the transient receptor potential (TRP)
celecoxib when compared to two most commonly
family of proteins has been recognized as an
prescribed traditional (non-selective) nonsteroidal
important sensor of chemical and physical stimuli of
anti-inflammatory drags (NSAIDs) in the treatment
various tissues and organs. This is a group of ion
of arthritis pain. A target of 20,000 patients aged
channels located at plasma membranes of neurons
≥18 years with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
271
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
with or at risk of developing cardiovascular disease,
 YU Cheuk Man  LEE Pui Wai  LAM Yat Yin
who require for chronic, daily NSAID therapy, will
be recruited.
The cardiovascular, gastrointestinal

and renal safety and symptomatic benefit in each
CHAN Chin Pang
 5 July 2006
treatment group will be assessed accordingly.
 Sanofi-Aventis Singapore Pte Ltd
Subjects are excluded if they: 1) have had a recent
cardiovascular
event,
unstable
cardiovascular
This study is a prospective multi-center, randomized,
conditions, or any major surgery (cardiac or
double-blind, active-controlled parallel-group, dose
non-cardiac) within 3 months prior to randomization;
ranging study with 5 treatment groups (AVE7688 AT
2) with medical or laboratory abnormality that would
4 different dosages, and losartan-potassium 100 mg).
make the subject inappropriate for trial entry; and 3)
There will be 3 study phases: placebo lead-in
require aspirin treatment >325mg /day; and 4) known
treatment, and follow-up.
hypersensitivity to celecoxib, ibuprofen, naproxen,
During the placebo lead-in phase (duration 3 to 4
aspirin or esomeprazole.
weeks),
The primary end-point of
patients
will
discontinue
concomitant
the study is the first occurrence of cardiovascular
treatment with any antihypertensive or vasodilating
death (including hemorrhagic death), non-fatal
agents and will receive single-blind placebo until
myocardial infarction, or non-fatal stroke (APTC
randomization. Patients who meet the inclusion and
composite endpoint).
The secondary outcome
exclusion criteria will be randomized to receive
measures are: l)The first occurrence of a MACE
once-daily oral doses of either 2.5, 10, 35 or 50 mg
defined as the composite of cardiovascular death
AVE7688, or 100 mg losartan-potassium.
(including
Ml,
The treatment phase will consist of two parts: an
non-fatal stroke, hospitalization for unstable angina,
efficacy evaluation period, with a week titration
revascularization or hospitalization for transient
period (from randomization to week 2, visit Tl to visit
ischemic attack; 2) The occurrence of Clinical
T3) up to 12 weeks, followed by a long-term safety
Significant Gastrointestinal Events (CSGIEs); and 3)
evaluation period until the end of week 52.
Patient’s Assessment of Arthritis Pain (VAS). The
Antihypertensive treatment such as diuretics, beta
trial will continue until the planned 762 APTC
blockers or calcium channel blockers can be
composite endpoints have been reached and all
introduced or re-introduced if indicated during the
subjects
long term safety evaluation period but angiotensin
hemorrhagic
have
had
death),
non-fatal
follow-ups
≥18
months.
(ClmicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00346216)
converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) or angiotensin
(MD06668)
receptor blockers (ARBs) are not permitted.
An additional visit (visit Fl) will occur two weeks
Double-Blind, Randomized, Parallel-Group, Dose
after the last dose of study medication. During this
Ranging, Multi-Centre Study to Evaluate the
follow-up phase, patients will be evaluated to assess
Efficacy and Safety of 2.5, 10, 35 and 50mg
the effect of study drug withdrawal on blood
AVE7688
pressure.
Once
Daily,
Using
100mg
(MD06882)
Losartan-Potassium Once Daily as Calibrator, for
12 Months Treatment, in Patients with Mild to
Moderate Hypertension
Faculty of Medicine
272
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
A Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized Study
Randomized,
to Establish the Clinical Benefit and Safety of
Double-Blind,
Vytorin
vs.
Parallel Group Trial of Rimonabant 20 mg OD for
Simvastatin Monotherapy in High-Risk Subjects
Reducing the Risk of Major Cardiovascular
Presenting
Events in Abdominally Obese Patients with
(Ezetimibe/Simvastatin
with
Acute
Tablet)
Coronary
Syndrome
(Improved Reduction of Outcomes: Vytorin
Multinational,
Multicenter,
Placebo-Controlled,
Two-Arm
Clustering Risk Factors
Efficacy International Trial – IMPROVE IT)
 YU Cheuk Man
 YU Cheuk Man  KUM Chi Chiu Leo  WONG

LAM Yat Yin

YIP Wai
Kwok Gabriel  CHAN Chin Pang  CHAN Kin
Man Lok Edmond#  CHAN Wai Man Wilson
Yin
 18 July 2006
 1 August 2006
 Schering-Plough Research Institute
 Sanofi-Aventis Singapore Pte Ltd
The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the
Primary Objective: To demonstrate the efficacy of
clinical
Ezetimibe/Simvastatin
rimonabant versus placebo for reducing the risk of
Combination (single tablet containing ezetimibe and
myocardial infarction, stroke, or cardiovascular death
simvastatin) compared with simvastatin in stabilized
in patients with abdominal obesity at increased risk
acute coronary syndrome (ACS) subjects - either
for such events.
acute myocardial infarction (MI) or unstable angina.
Secondary Objective: To demonstrate the efficacy of
Clinical benefit will be defined as the reduction in the
rimonabant versus placebo for reducing the risk of
risk of the occurrence of the composite endpoint of
myocardial infarction, stroke, cardiovascular death,
CV death, major coronary events, and non-fatal
or hospitalization for cardiovascular death, or
stroke.
CV death, major coronary events, and
hospitalization for cardiovascular cause (unstable
non-fatal stroke are designated primary endpoint
angina, transient ischaemic attack, cardiac rhythm
events. Major coronary events include non-fatal MI,
disorder, congestive heart failure, syncope, or urgent
documented unstable angina that requires admission
revascularization
into a hospital, and all coronary revascularization
abdominal obesity at increased risk of such events.
with either percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)
Study Design: The present study is designed as a
or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) occurring
multicentre, multi-national, randomized, double-blind,
at
placebo-controlled, 2-arm parallel-group trial.
All
subjects
for
least
benefit
30
assignment.
days
of
after
randomized
treatment
Only revascularization events that
must
procedure),
meet
in
patients
eligibility
criteria
with
occur after the first 30 days of treatment will be
CRESCENDO study and must give written informed
considered as clinical endpoint events, in order to
consent.
focus on revascularization events that can be
mg daily or placebo and they would be followed up
reasonably expected to be affected by treatment and
for cardiovascular outcomes.
are unrelated to the initial ACS event.
end date, which is estimated to occur when the last
(MD06410)
randomized patients has been followed for 33 months,
Subjects would be given rimonabant 20
The common study
based on a 17-month recruitment period.
(MD06532)
273
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
by a prospective, follow up study of at least 150
Serial Echocardiographic Assessment of Early
patients with different severity of COPD. The latter
Right Ventricular Dysfunction by Tissue Doppler
prospective study will permit serial echocardiography
Echocardiography
and lung function test that help to delineate the
&
its
Impact
on
Left
degree of progression of cardiac dysfunction over the
Ventricular Function
time course of 1 year. The study will provide
 YU Cheuk Man

HUI Shu Cheong David
information reference data for the relationship

between COPD and cardiac dysfunction, and be
LEE Pui Wai  KO Wai San Fanny
potentially helpful to provide a comprehensive plan
 1 October 2006
of patient management.
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
(CU06475)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is
one of the leading causes of hospitalization in Hong
The Effect of Eplerenone versus Placebo on
Kong resulting in disability and high mortality as a
Cardiovascular Mortality and Heart Failure
result
Hospitalisation in Subjects with HYHA Class II
of
progressive
loss
of
lung
function.
Management of this condition has long been focusing
Chronic Systolic Heart Failure (EMPHASIS-HF)
on the treatment strategies that improve symptoms
 YU Cheuk Man
and defer deterioration of lung function. However, as

YIP Wai Kwok Gabriel
COPD progresses, function of the heart, in particular
CHAN Anna*
the right-sided chambers, can be adversely affected in
Wah*
which clinical information has been very limited.
CHAN YEUNG Yuk Ching  DONG Ming
This study examined the deleterious effect of COPD


KUM Chi Chiu*
WU Eugene Brian*



KWOK Lai
LAM Yat Yin*

 17 November 2006
on heart failure, which include both systolic
 Pfizer Corporation Hong Kong Limited
(contractile) and diastolic (relaxation) function on the
right ventricle (RV). Furthermore, in these patients,
Patients with heart disease will be asked to take part
RV dysfunction and COPD itself may also affect left
in this study. The drug is called eplerenone. This
ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function which
drug is approved in the U.S. and countries in Europe
will also be systematically studied. The main tool for
for the treatment of a certain type of heart attack;
cardiac assessment is by advanced echocardiographic
however, this drug is not approved for the disease
technology (ultrasound of the heart) that is equipped
treated in this study. The overall purpose of this
with tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and 3-dimensional
trial is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of
echocardiography (3DE) capabilities. This new tools
eplerenone (plus “standard care”) versus placebo
are sensitive enough to allow cardiologists to perform
(plus “standard care”) in subjects with NYHA II
detailed quantitative assessment of cardiac systolic
chronic systolic heart failure (HF).
and diastolic function, and to assess uncoordinated
therapy includes angiotensin converting enzyme
contraction and relaxation of the heart that might
(ACE) inhibitors and/or angiotensin receptor blockers
develop over the course of COPD, in the presence
(ARBs) and β-blockers at the optimal target or
and absence of pulmonary hypertension. The research
maximally tolerated doses (unless contraindicated),
proposal will contain a cross-sectional study followed
Faculty of Medicine
274
Standard HF
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
and diuretics, if clinically indicated to minimize fluid
Secondary Objective: To assess the safety and
retention.
tolerability of AZD6140 compared with clopidogrel.
The trial is a multinational (approximately 30
The primary safety endpoint is the time to first
countries),
occurrence of any total major bleeding event.
randomized,
placebo-controlled,
double-blind
parallel-group
(MD06523)
trial.
Approximately 2,584 subjects will be randomized to
receive eplerenone 25 mg once daily (OD) or
Novel Effect of Lipoprotein Lipase Activator in
matching placebo. Placebo is a pill that does not
the Severity of Nutritional Steatohepatitis
contain any drug. Patients have an equal chance of
getting eplerenone or placebo. Both the patient and
 YU Jun  CHAN Lik Yuen Henry
the study doctor will not know if they get placebo or
 1 June 2007
drug. At four weeks, the dose of study drug may be
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
increased to 50 mg OD (two 25mg tablets of
Grants)
eplerenone or 2 matching placebo tablets once daily)
based on serum potassium level.
The trial will
Due to the rapid change in lifestyle, there is an
continue until 813 primary endpoints are reached.
increasing trend of metabolic syndrome in Hong
The anticipated trial duration is 48 months.
Kong. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD),
(MD06705)
a common compliment to the metabolic disorders, is
increasingly an important cause of liver diseases.
A Randomised, Double-blind, Parallel Group,
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a subset of
Phase 3, Efficacy and Safety Study of AZD6140
NAFLD characterised by histological changes of
Compared with Clopidogrel for Prevention of
necroinflammation. The inflammation may further
Vascular Events in Patients with Non-ST or ST
lead to fibrosis and cirrhosis.
Elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes (ACS)
with NASH may progress into liver cirrhosis, there is
[PLATO-A Study of PLATelet Inhibition and
no effective therapy for NASH.
Patient Outcomes.]
novel
compound
that
Although patients
has
NO-1886 is a
recently
shown
encouraging results with improvement in serum lipid
 YU Cheuk Man

profile and in fat accumulation in animals through

increasing lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity. These
KUM Chi Chiu Leo  WU E B*  LAM Yat Yin
findings indicate that NO-1886 could be a potential

YIP Wai Kwok Gabriel
CHAN Yat Sun Joseph


CHAN Kin Yin
CHAN Chin Pang
therapeutic agent for NASH.
In the present project,
we will first clarify the potential biological effects
 14 December 2006
and mechanisms of NO-1886 on prevention of
 AstraZeneca Hong Kong Limited
steatohepatitis in mice, and extend study to the
Primary Objective: This study is to test the
regression effect of NO-1886 to characterise more
hypothesis that AstraZeneca 6140 is superior to
fully the influence of this compound on evolution of
clopidogrel for the vascular events in patients with
steatohepatitis.
non-ST or ST elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes.
provide the new insight into the pathogenesis of
275
The results of this research will
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
2002-03 A Multicentre, Randomised Study to
steatohepatitis and the potential value of lipoprotein
lipase activation for intervention of NASH.
Examine
(MD06422)
Management on Clinical Outcomes in
Type
the
2
Effects
Diabetic
of
Disease
Patients
with
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
Nephropathy (MD02610)
for more details of the following ongoing research
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana  TONG
Peter Chun Yip
at the department:
Stewart
Edition

COCKRAM Clive
ZHANG

Xuejie
(Community and Family Medicine)#
Title/Investigators

LEUNG Y S Wilson*
2004-05 Mechanisms of Action of Potential
2003-04 Olmesartan
Alzheimer's Disease Drug Curcumin, an
Reduces
Incidence
of
Extract of Geung Wong (CU04302)
Endstage Renal Disease in Patients with
 BAUM Lawrence William
NG Ho
Type 2 Diabetic Nephrophathy Trial
Cellular
(ORIENT) (MD03356)
Keung
(Anatomical
Pathology)


&
CHUI
Yiu
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana  TONG
Loon
Peter Chun Yip
(Clinical Immunology Unit)
Chun


SZETO Cheuk
TOMLINSON Brian

COCKRAM Clive Stewart  OZAKI
2005-06 A Pilot Study of Curcumin for Treating
Alzheimer's Disease (MD05563)
R*  SO Wing Yee*  CHOW Chun
 BAUM Lawrence William  KWOK
Chung Francis
Chi Yui Timothy
2004-05 A
Multicenter,
Randomized,
2005-06 Screening Potential Alzheimer's Disease
Double-Blind Study to Evaluate the
Drugs by Amyloid Disaggregation Assay
Safety of MK-0431 Monotherapy in
and In Vivo Testing (MD05873)
Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
 BAUM Lawrence William
Ho
Yin
Edwin

and Chronic Renal Insufficiency Who
CHAN
Have
(Biochemistry
Inadequate
Glycemic
Control
(MD04795)
(Science))
 CHAN
Chung
Ngor
Juliana

KONG Pik Shan  CHAN W. B.*
2005-06 A Novel Cancer Screening Method Using
Mismatch Binding Proteins to Detect
2004-05 A Phase III, 18 Month, Multicenter,
Mutant, Tumor-Derived DNA in Body
Randomized,
Fluids (MD06861)
 BAUM
Lawrence
William
Active-Controlled

Double-Blind,
Clinical
Trial
to
Compare Rosiglitazone versus Glipizide
LEUNG Wai Keung
on the Progression of Atherosclerosis in
Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
and Cardiovascular Disease (MD04363)
Faculty of Medicine
276
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana  TONG
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana  CHAN
W. B.*
KONG Pik Shan

Cheuk Man


Peter Chun Yip  KONG Pik Shan
YU
CHAN Wai Man
2005-06 An
Wilson
Open-Label,
Multicentre
and
Long-Term Extension Study to Evaluate
2004-05 A Multidisciplinary Project to Identify
the Safety and Tolerability of Oral
Major Genes for Diabetes and Metabolic
Tesaglitazar 1 mg in Patients with Type 2
Syndrome in Chinese and to Assess Its
Diabetes
Functional Significance (MD04484)
(MD05844)
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana  TONG
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana  TONG
Peter Chun Yip
(Clinical Oncology)*

Sing (Physiology)
WAYE Mary

2005-06 Diabetes,
Metabolic
Syndrome
and
Cardio-Renal Complications in Hong
Kong (MD05927)
SO Wing Yee
 CHAN
2005-06 International
1
LEUNG Po
Miu Yee (Biochemistry (Medicine))

GALLEX
Peter Chun Yip  KONG Pik Shan
ZEE Benny

Mellitus
Diabetes
Management
Chung
Ngor
KONG Pik Shan
Practices Study, The "IDMPS" HOE

Juliana

TONG Peter
Chun Yip
901/9010 (MD05511)
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana
2005-06 The Effect of Sulodexide in Overt Type 2
Diabetic Nephropathy (MD05702)
2005-06 A Long-Term, Post Treatment, Safety
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana  TONG
Follow-up, Multicentre Study in Patients
Peter Chun Yip  KONG Pik Shan 
with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus from the
LEE K. F.*
GALLANT,
GALLEX
or
ARMOR
Studies G-PLUS (GALLANT, GALLEX
and
ARMOR
Long-Term
-
Post
Treatment
Follow-up
Study)
2005-06 Type 2 Diabetes Gene Discovery Project
(MD05341)
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana

NG
(MD05610)
Chor Yin  SO Wing Yee*  TONG
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana  TONG
Peter Chun Yip
Peter Chun Yip  KONG Pik Shan
2005-06 Immunopathological
2005-06 A
Parallel-Group,
Mechanisms
of
Inflammatory Reaction in Chinese Type
Multicentre,
Active-Controlled (Glibenclamide) Long
2
Term Extension Study to Evaluate the
Nephropathy (MD05354)
Safety
Oral
 CHAN
Chung
Ngor
Juliana
Tesaglitazar Therapy in Patients with
WONG
Chun
Kwok
(Chemical
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (GALLEX 4)
Pathology)
and
Tolerability
of
Diabetic
Patients

with
Diabetic

TONG Peter Chun Yip
(MD05623)
277
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics

KONG Pik Shan

LAM Wai Kei
2005-06 Double-Blind,
Christopher (Chemical Pathology)
Triple
Dummy,
Parallel-Group, Randomized, Six-Month
Study to Compare Celecoxib (200 mg
2005-06 The International 1q Type 2 Diabetes
BID) with Diclofenac SR (75 mg BID)
Consortium (MD05654)
Plus Omeprazole (20 mg QD) for
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana

Gastrointestinal Events in Subjects with
NG
Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Chor Yin
at High-Risk of Gastrointestinal Adverse
Events (MD05466)
2005-06 To Evaluate the In Vivo Effects of
 CHAN Ka Leung Francis
Chinese Medicine (CM) on Metabolic
Syndrome and Diabetic Complications
Nafees Begum*
using Animal Models (MD05863)
Lutz*
 CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana  TONG
Yuk Tong
Peter Chun Yip  ZHAO Hailu  NG

KATZSCHNER

LEUNG Wai Keung


Baig

LEE
WU Che Yuen Justin

LI Chi Hong Felix*
Ho Keung (Anatomical & Cellular
Pathology)

LAM
Wai

Intereron-Beta-1a for the Treatment of
Edward
Chronic Hepatitis C in Asian Patients
Christopher (Chemical Pathology)
JAMES
Anthony
2002-03 A Multicentre Phase III Study of
Kei
(MD02926)
(Laboratory Animal Services Centre)
 CHAN Lik Yuen Henry  CHAN Ka
2001-02 Cyclooxygenase and Trefoil Peptides in
Leung Francis
Stomach - Biology & Clinical Diseases
Nancy*
(MD01711)
Jao Yiu
 CHAN Ka Leung Francis


LEUNG Wai Yee
HUI Y*

SUNG Joseph
LEUNG

SUNG
2003-04 A Randomized, Double-Blind Trial of
NG Enders
Telbivudine (LdT) versus Lamivudine in
CHUNG
Adults with Decompensated Chronic
Sheung Chee Sydney (Surgery)  TO
Hepatitis B and Evidence of Cirrhosis
Ka Fai (Anatomical & Cellular
(MD03850)
Pathology)
 CHAN Lik Yuen Henry
Wai Keung

YU Jun
Joseph Jao Yiu

Kwok-wai (Surgery)



CHEN M H*

HU P
J*
2003-04 Preventing

NSAID-Associated
Ulcer
2004-05 Cytokine Gene Polymorphism and Liver
Fibrosis
Cyclooxygenase-2
(CU04304)
Therapeutics
in
Chronic

Joseph Jao Yiu
LEUNG
Wai Keung  SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Tsek
278

(Anatomical
Pathology)#
Faculty of Medicine
Hepatitis
 CHAN Lik Yuen Henry
(CU03455)
 CHAN Ka Leung Francis
HUI Yui#
WONG Wai Sun
Bleeding for High-Risk Patients: From
to


B
SUNG
LIEW Choong
&
Cellular
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Cellular
(LdT)
versus
SUNG

Joseph Jao Yiu
2004-05 A Randomized, Open Label Trial of
Telbivudine
Pathology)#
Adefovir
2005-06 A Phase I, Multicentre, Randomized,
Dipivoxil in Adults with Compensated
Chronic Hepatitis B (MD04746)
Placebo-Controlled
 CHAN Lik Yuen Henry
HUI Yui#
Study to Assess the Local and Systemic
SUNG Joseph
Tolerability of the Therapeutic DNA

WONG Wai Sun


by
Hepatocellular
Delivery
Carcinoma
 CHAN Lik Yuen Henry
Wing
(Medicine))

Subjects
Hepatitis
B
with
Infection

WONG
Wai Sun  WONG Lai Hung
MOK Shu Kam Tony

in
 CHAN Lik Yuen Henry
(Biochemistry
(Clinical Oncology)
Epidermal
(MD05887)
TSUI

Medicated
System
Chronic
(MD04701)
Kwok
Particle
Delivery Using the PowerJect ND10
2004-05 Serum Genomic Markers of Hepatitis B
for
Escalation
Plasmid pdpSC18 Vaccine Administered
Jao Yiu
Virus
Dose
SUNG Joseph
2005-06 An Open Label Trial of Telbivudine
Jao Yiu
(LdT) in Adults with Chronic Hepatitis B
Previously Treated in Idenix-Sponsored
2004-05 A Randomized, Blinded, Phase IIB Trial
of
Telbivudine
Combination
(LdT)
of
versus
Telbivudine
the
Telbivudine Studies (MD06368)
and
 CHAN Lik Yuen Henry
Valtorcitabine (val-LdC) in Patients with
LI Chi

Hong Felix*  Baig Nafees Begum*
Chronic Hepatitis B (MD04646)
 CHAN Lik Yuen Henry

WONG Wai Sun


2004-05 A
HUI Yui#
Prospective,
Randomised,
Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled, Dose
SUNG Joseph
Ranging, Multicentre Study of the Safety
Jao Yiu
and Efficacy of Three Days Continuous
2005-06 Role of Hepatitis B Virus Covalently
Intravenous Infusion of GR270773 in the
Closed Circular DNA in Determination
Treatment of Suspected or Confirmed
of Treatment Outcome (MD05619)
Gram-Negative Severe Sepsis in Adults
 CHAN Lik Yuen Henry
(EMD20001) (MD04466)


HUI Yui#
 CHENG
SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Gregory

WONG
Raymond*
2005-06 Proteomic Profiling of Liver Fibrosis in
Chronic Hepatitis B (CU05466)
 CHAN Lik Yuen Henry
Chuen Wai
Choong

Tsek
HUI Yui#
2004-05 A


Double-Blind,
Randomized,
POON
Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Group Study
LIEW
to
(Anatomical
Investigate
Tolerability,
&
the
Efficacy,
Pharmacokinetics
Safety
and
Pharmacodynamics of SB 497115-GR, A
279
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Thrombopoietin Receptor Agoinst in
2005-06 A 2-Year Study to Assess the Efficacy,
Adult Male and Female Subjects with
Safety, and Tolerability of L-000899055
Refractory,
in Obese Patients (MD05518)
Chronic
Immune
 CHOW Chun Chung Francis
Thrombocytopenia (MD04780)
 CHENG
Gregory
KONG Pik Shan
WONG

Raymond*
OZAKI Risa

CHENG Yuen Shan Angela#  LUK
On Yan Andrea
2002-03 A


Multinational,
Double-Blind,
Randomized,
CHINNAIYAN,

Arul*
Placebo-Controlled,
Forced-Titration, 2 x 2 Factorial Design
2005-06 Liraglutide Effect and Action in Diabetes
Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Long
(LEAD-1): Effect on Glycaemic Control
Term Administration of Nateglinide and
after Once Daily Administration of
Valsartan in the Prevention of Diabetes
Liraglutide
and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Subjects
Glimepiride
with Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT)
Monotherapy versus Glimepiride and
(MD02454)
Rosiglitazone Combination Therapy in
 CHOW Chun Chung Francis
in
versus
with
Glimepiride
Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes.

COCKRAM Clive Stewart

FUNG
Six-Month
Wing Hong

CHAN W*

CHAN
Double-Dummy,
Wing Bun
SO Wing Yee

CHAN
Control,

Combination
Double-Blind,
Randomised,
Parallel-Group,
Active
Multicentre,
Multi-National Trial (MD05897)
N*  MA R*
 CHOW Chun Chung Francis
2004-05 A
A
Multicenter,
Randomized,
KONG Pik Shan
Double-Blind, Active Controlled Study


CHENG Yuen
Shan Angela#
to Compare the Long-Term Effect (up to
5 Years) of Treatment with LAF237 50
2005-06 Risk Stratification for Active Pulmonary
mg bid to Glimepiride up to 6 mg Daily
Tuberculosis
as Add-On Therapy in Patients with Type
Interferon-y Assay (MD05547)
2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled with
 COCKRAM Clive Stewart
Using
Whole
Blood
Metformin Monotherapy (MD04418)
 CHOW Chun Chung Francis
Wing Yee

CHAN Wing Bun
LAU Wing Yan
Andrea


2003-04 Atrial Fibrillation Clopidogrel Trial with
SO
KONG Pik Shan

OZAKI Risa


Irbesartan for Prevention of Vascular

Events
-
A
Parallel,
Randomized, Controlled Evaluation of
LUK On Yan
YU Wai Ling Linda
(ACTIVE)
Copidogrel plus Aspirin, with Factorial

Evaluation
CHENG Yuen Shan Angela#
of
Irbesartan,
for
the
Prevention of Vascular Events in Patients
with Atrial Fibrillation (MD03400)
Faculty of Medicine
280
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
 FUNG Wing Hong
John Elsby#
Joseph

SANDERSON
WONG Tai Hung John#
2005-06 Effects of Growth Hormone on Body Fat
Distribution,
Yin*
Insulin
Cardiovascular
2002-03 A
Randomized,
Middle-Aged
Double-Blind,
Men
Assessing the Rate of Decline of Lung
 KONG Pik Shan
Inhalation
Patients
Tiotropium
Capsule
with
Once
18
mcg
Daily
Chronic
Ngor Juliana
in
Michael*



2005-06 A
CHAN Chung

TONG Peter Chun

Multicenter,


Comparative,
Parallel-Group,
Monotherapy,
Study
of
Pregabalin (Lyrica) and Lamotrigine
CHAN Chio Ho
CHAN Pui Shan#
Randomized,
Double-Blind,
KO Wai
FOK Pui Chu Joan*
TONG Mabel*
Metabolic
Obstructive
 HUI Shu Cheong David

in
Yip
Pulmonary Disease (COPD) (MD02758)
San Fanny*
and
Factors
with
Syndrome (MD05408)
with
Action
Risk
Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Group Trial
Function
YU


LAM Yat

(Science))
Cheuk Man
CHAN Yat Sun

KUM Chi Chiu Leo

(Biochemistry
(Lamictal)
HO
in
Patients
with
Newly
Diagnosed Partial Seizures (MD05809)
Wai Mun#
 KWAN Kwok Leung Patrick
2005-06 A 12-Week, Double-Blind, Randomized
WONG Ka Sing Lawrence
Study to Investigate the Effect of 500μg

HUI

Andrew Che Fai  LEUNG Ho Wan
Roflumilast Tablets Once Daily versus
Placebo on Pulmonary Function in
Patients
with
Chronic
2004-05 Can Oral Vitamin B12 and Folate
Obstructive
Supplementation
Pulmonary Disease (MD05356)
 HUI Shu Cheong David
San Fanny
Chun Li



TO Kin Wang
Preserve
Cognitive
Function of Patients with Early Dementia?
(CU04307)
KO Wai

 KWOK Chi Yui Timothy
NGAI
FOK Pui Chu Joan
Chiu Wa (Psychiatry)

CHAN Chio Ho


LAM
WOO Kam
Sang (Biochemistry (Science))
ZEE
2005-06 A Randomized Controlled Study of the
Chung
Ying

Benny
(Community and Family Medicine)
Long-Term Effects of Nasal CPAP on
Systemic Blood Pressure, Coagulability,
2005-06 A
Case
Management
Model
of
and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in
Interdisciplinary Care to Improve Quality
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome
of Life of Older People with Early
(MD05819)
Dementia and to Reduce Their Caregiver
 HUI Shu Cheong David
Gregory

WOO

Burden (MD05970)
CHENG
Kam
Sang
281
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
 KWOK Chi Yui Timothy

 LEUNG Wai Keung
LAM
TO Ka Fai

Linda*  LEUNG Chi Ming Michael
(Anatomical & Cellular Pathology) 
(School of Public Health)
NG Enders Kwok-wai (Surgery)
2005-06 ACE
Gene
I/D
Polymorphism and
2005-06 Development of an in Vitro Cell Culture
Testosterone in Older Men (MD05494)
Model for Human Noroviruses and Its
 KWOK Chi Yui Timothy
Clinical Application (MD05729)
Leung
Sang
Nelson

TANG
 LEUNG Wai Keung
(Chemical
Pathology)  HO C S*
CHAN Kay

Sheung Paul (Microbiology)
Lai Shun Nelson
2005-06 A Pilot Study on Influenza Viral Kinetics

LEE
SUNG Joseph

Jao Yiu
(MD05670)
 LEE Lai Shun Nelson
2005-06 Colorectal Cancer in Chinese Families Risk of Colorectal Adenoma in Cancer
2005-06 Establishment of a Public Norovirus
Genome
Database
in
Hong
Relatives and the Search for New Cancer
Kong
Susceptibility Genes (MD05714)
 LEUNG Wai Keung
(MD05734)
 LEUNG Wai Keung

(Anatomical & Cellular Pathology) 
CHAN Lik
Yuen Henry

LAI Wai Man
(Microbiology)

SUNG Joseph Jao
TO Ka Fai

LAU Yun Wong James (Surgery)

SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Yiu
2004-05 A
Multinational,
Randomised,
2005-06 Colonoscopic Screening in First-Degree
Double-Blind,
Relatives of Hong Kong Chinese Patients
Double-Dummy,
with
Controlled
Sporadic
Colorectal
Cancer
Stratified,
Parallel
 LEUNG Wai Keung

(Surgery)
Group
Study

JONES
Intravenous Zoledronic Acid, 5 mg Once
LEE Fung Yee Janet
Yearly, and Oral Risedronate, 5 mg Daily,
TO Ka Fai (Anatomical
in the Prevention and Treatment of

& Cellular Pathology)

Corticosteroid
SUNG
Induced
Osteoporosis
(MD04790)
Joseph Jao Yiu
 LI Kwok Ming Edmund
2005-06 Epigenetic
Active
Comparing the Efficacy and Safety of
(MD05631)
Roger*
Multi-Centre,
Inactivation
of
Secreted

TAM Lai
Shan
Frizzled-related Protein Gene Family in
Gastric Cancer: Functional Significance
and
Potential
Clinical
2004-05 A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel
Application
Group Study of the Safety and Reduction
(CU05473)
of Signs and Symptoms during Treatment
with MRA versus Placebo, in Placebo, in
Combination
Faculty of Medicine
282
with
Methotrexate,
in
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
 POON Chuen Wai
Patients with Moderate to Severe Active
Rheumatoid Arthritis (MD04763)
Yuen Henry
 LI Kwok Ming Edmund
Joseph Jao Yiu

TAM Lai
CHAN Lik

HUI Yui#


SUNG
Shan*
2005-06 Deciphering the Proteins Secreted by
Hepatocellular
2005-06 Long-Term Extension Study of Safety
Tocilizumab
(MD05315)
(MRA) in Patients Completing Treatment
 POON
during
Treatment
with
in WA 17822 (MD05442)
Chuen
Wai
Cells
WONG

Nathalie (Anatomical & Cellular
 LI Kwok Ming Edmund

Pathology)
TAM Lai
Shan*
2005-06 A
Carcinoma
LAI Bo San Paul

(Surgery)  SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Randomized,
Parallel
Group,
2004-05 A
Multicenter,
Randomized,
Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Study
Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
to Assess the Safety and Tolerability of
to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of the
SB-681323 at 7.5 mg Daily Dose for 28
Addition of MK-0431 to Patients with
Days and Its Effect on the Levels of
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Who Have
Serum C-Reactive Protein (CRP) in
Inadequate
Subjects with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Glimepiride Alone or in Combination
(MD06843)
with Metformin (MD04403)
 LI Kwok Ming Edmund
 SO Wing Yee  CHAN Chung Ngor
Glycemic
Control
on
Juliana  KONG Pik Shan  OZAKI
2004-05 Characterization of Serum Proteomic
Risa  LUK On Yan Andrea
Signatures of Hepatocellular Carcinomas
(MD04724)
2002-03 Acid Suppression by Proton Pump
 POON Chuen Wai

Inhibitor
PANG Ting
Kai Ronald (Stanley Ho CEID)#

Wai Keung
CHAN Anthony Tak
Francis
Sheung
Chee
Sydney
B
Infection by Differential Lectin Affinity
and
CHAN Ka Leung

(Surgery)
Chromatography
LEUNG
LAU Yun Wong James (Surgery)
Glycoforms of Serum Proteins from
Hepatitis



CHUNG
Chronic
Bleeding
WU Che Yuen Justin

2005-06 Identification of Liver Cirrhosis-Specific
with
Ulcer
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Cheung (Clinical Oncology)
Patients
Peptic
(MD02996)

MOK Shu Kam Tony (Clinical
Oncology)
in
2003-04 Screening of Colorectal Neoplasm in
Quantitative
Chinese (MD03767)
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Proteomic Profiling (MD05322)
Wai
Keung

TO

LEUNG
Ka
Fai
(Anatomical & Cellular Pathology) 
283
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
HUI Shu Cheong David
LAM Wai Man Wynnie (Diagnostic

Radiology & Organ Imaging)
Kwok
CHAN Ka Leung Francis


Wing
(Medicine))
YEUNG
Deacons*


(Biochemistry
TANG Leung Sang
Nelson (Chemical Pathology)
Margaret (Microbiology)
2003-04 Genotypes
of
Pro-Inflammatory
Chuen Wai
Cytokines (IL-1b, TNF-a and IL-10)

TSUI


IP
POON
CHEUNG Fanny Mui
Ching (Psychology)
Associated with Pre-Malignant Gastric
Lesions (CU03436)
2003-04 A
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Leung Francis


Double-Blind,
CHAN Ka

Randomised,
Parallel
Group,
Placebo-Controlled Trial on Safety and
CHUNG Sheung
Chee Sydney (Surgery)
Multicentre,
Efficacy
LEUNG
of
Activated
Recombinant
Wai Keung

NG Enders Kwok-wai
Factor VII (rFVIIa/ NovoSeven®) in the
(Surgery)
TO Ka Fai (Anatomical
Treatment of Active Variceal Bleeding in

Patients
& Cellular Pathology)
with
Advanced
Cirrhosis
(MD03518)
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
2003-04 The Role of Cyclooxygenase (COX)-2
Overexpression
in
Gastric
LAU Yun

Wong James (Surgery)
Carcinogenesis: A Transgenic Mouse
Model (MD03968)
2004-05 Chinese Herbal Medicine for Irritable
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Wai Keung


Bowel
LEUNG

CHUN Wu Kai*

From
Basic
Mechanism to Clinical Cure (MD04788)
CHENG Sze Lok
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
(Institute of Digestive Disease)  FU
Yuangen#
Syndrome:

WU Che
Yuen Justin  LEUNG Wai Keung 
XU
Li*  WANG Xin*
2003-04 The Role of Cyclooxygenase-2 in Liver
CHAN Ka Leung Francis

BIAN
Zhaoxiang*

ZHAO

LIU Liang*
Zhongzhen*  JIANG Zhi-hong*
Fibrosis and the Potential of Misoprostol
as an Anti-Fibrotic Agent (CU03446)
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Yuen Henry


2004-05 Functional Bowel Disorders in Chinese
Medicine (MD03458)
CHAN Lik
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
CHENG Sze Lok
(Institute of Digestive Disease)

Tao (School of Chinese Medicine)

LEUNG Wai Keung
LEUNG Wai Keung

Keung Ken (Anatomy)
2003-04 Commissioned Projects - Research on the
Control
of
Infectious
Yuen Justin
Diseases
(Anatomy)
(MD03896)
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu

LO Yuk
Ming Dennis (Chemical Pathology)
Faculty of Medicine
CHE Chun
284


LIU Wing

WU Che
YEW Tai Wai David
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
2004-05 Genomic Study of Viral Hepatitis B to
Lik Yuen Henry
WU Che Yuen

Predict Development of Liver Cancer in
Justin
Asian Patients (MD04467)
Nafees Begum*
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Lutz*  WU Eugene Brian*
2005-06 Functional Bowel Disorders in Chinese
2005-06 Research
Medicine (MD05831)
Baig
KATZSCHNER
Digestive
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
WU Che

Disease
(School of Chinese Medicine)
CHAN Ka

Leung Francis  LEUNG Wai Keung
CHE Chun Tao

into


(MD05770)
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Yuen Justin
LI Chi Hong Felix*



CHAN Lik Yuen Henry

LEE
LEUNG Wai Keung

YEW Tai
Yuk Tong
Wai David (Anatomy)

LIU Wing
YU Jun

NG Enders Kwok-wai
HU Shiu
(Surgery)

LAU Yun Wong James
Ying (School of Chinese Medicine)
(Surgery)
Keung Ken (Anatomy)

ZIEA Tat Chi
ZHENG RP*

YEUNG Chun Yip*


Annie
Nga
Yin*

& Organ Imaging)
Yee
WALTHER
Beverly*


YU Chun Ho
(Diagnostic Radiology & Organ
LAW Sin
XIAO Zhuangwei*
LAM Wai

Man Wynnie (Diagnostic Radiology


TO Ka Fai (Anatomical

William, Gray Argust*
Angelina*


LEE Fung Yee Janet

& Cellular Pathology)
ES Debnam*

CHAN SO Chan Ying Peggy*
CHEUNG
(Surgery)

WU Che Yuen Justin

Imaging)

(Clinical

XIE Xinhui*  TSE Sui Wah Betty*
MOK Shu Kam Tony
Oncology)
ZHANG

Mingdong (Stanley Ho CEID)#  HE
Mingliang (Stanley Ho CEID)
2005-06 A
Randomized,
Double-Blind,
Parallel-Group, Placebo Controlled Study
2005-06 Clinical
Research
on
HIV/AIDS
of Esomeprazole I.V. (Bolus Infusion of
Management (MD05994)
80 mg Followed by a Continuous
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu

Infusion of 8 mg per Hour) Administered
Shan (Stanley Ho CEID)
for 72 Hours to Assess Prevention of
Shun Nelson
Rebleeding
in
Undergone
Subjects
That
Successful
LEE Shui

LEE Lai
Have
Primary
2005-06 Novel
HBV
Mutations
as
Early
Endoscopic Haemostasis of a Bleeding
Diagnostic Markers for HCC (MD05973)
Peptic
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Ulcer
-
The
PUB
Study
(MD05822)
CHAN Hin
Lee Henry (Paediatrics)
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu

LAU Yun
Wong James (Surgery)

CHAN Ka
Leung
NG
Francis

Kwok-wai (Surgery)
Keung



2005-06 Administration of High-Dose Intravenous
Proton
Enders

Inhibitor
for
Upper
Gastrointestinal Bleeding (MD05603)
LEUNG Wai
LEE Yuk Tong
Pump
CHAN
285
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
CHAN Ka
2005-06 Open Label Extension Study Evaluating
Leung Francis  LEUNG Wai Keung
the Long Term Safety, Tolerability and


WU Che Yuen Justin

Efficacy of an Iron Maintenance Dosing
LAU Yun
Strategy Utilizing Intravenous VIT-45 in
Wong James (Surgery)
the Treatment of Anemia in Non-Dialysis
2005-06 A
Dependent
Randomized, Open Label Study
(NDD)
Chronic
Kidney
Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of
Disease (CKD) Protocol: 1VIT05005
Peginterferon Alfa-2a (PEGASYS) or
(MD05845)
Adefovir Dipivoxil (ADV) in Patients
 SZETO Cheuk Chun
with
Lamivudine
Resistant
HBeAg

CHOW Kai
Ming
Positive Chronic Hepatitis B (MD06733)
 SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
Yuen Henry


2003-04 A Sibling-Based Study of the Molecular
CHAN Lik
LI Chi Hong Felix*
Genetics of Hypertension-Application of

Microarray-Based
Baig Nafees Begum*
DNA
Chip
Technology (CU03438)
 TOMLINSON Brian
2003-04 Treatment of Early Immunoglobulin a

THOMAS
Nephropathy by Angiotensin Converting
Neil G (School of Pharmacy)#
Enzyme Inhibitor - A Randomized
YANG Michael*

Controlled Trial (MD04749)
 SZETO Cheuk Chun

2005-06 Pharmacokinetics of Single and Repeated
LI Kam Tao
Oral Administration of S 18886 30 mg
Philip*  YU Wai Yin Alex*
Daily
in
Chinese
Healthy
RNA
Expression
of
Volunteers (MD05889)
Podocyte-Associated
Molecules
in
 TOMLINSON Brian
2005-06 Messenger
Urinary Sediment - A Non-Invasive

Male
FOK Siu
Pong
Prognostic Marker of Chronic Kidney
Diseases? (MD05946)
2005-06 Single-
 SZETO Cheuk Chun
and
Multiple-Dose,
Tolerability and Pharmacokinetic Study
of
2005-06 Comparison of the Safety and Efficacy of
Oral
Rivoglitazone
Subjects (MD05338)
(VIT-45)
 TOMLINSON Brian
Oral
Iron
in
(CS-011)
in
Healthy Chinese Male and Female
a Unique Intravenous Iron Preparation
versus
Safety,
the
Treatment of Anemia in Non-Dialysis
Dependent
Chronic
Kidney
Disease
2005-06 Expert Report on the Safety and Efficacy
(Protocol: 1VIT04004) (MD05657)
of "Trimix" (MD05566)
 SZETO Cheuk Chun
 TOMLINSON Brian

CHOW Kai
Ming
2005-06 Phase I Study on the Safety and
Pharmacokinetics of Single and Repeated
Faculty of Medicine
286
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Application of IMD-0354 in Healthy
Diabetes
Who
Have
Inadequate
Male Volunteers (MD05644)
Glycemic Control on Metformin Therapy
 TOMLINSON Brian
Alone (MD04461)
 TONG Peter Chun Yip
2005-06 Reduced Factorial Design, Randomized,
Double
Blind
Trial
Chung Ngor Juliana
Comparing



CHAN
SO Wing Yee
WONG Siu Man*
Combinations of Telmisartan 20 or 80
mg and Simvastatin 20 or 40 mg with
2005-06 The Effect of Sulodexide in Patients with
Single Component Therapies in the
Type 2 Diabetes and Microalbuminuria
Treatment
(MD05379)
of
Hypertension
and
Dyslipidemia (MD06332)
 TONG Peter Chun Yip
 TOMLINSON Brian
Chung Ngor Juliana
Shan
2002-03 The Participation of the Cytoskeleton in


KONG Pik
CHAN Wing Bun*

CHAN

MA
Ronald*
Insulin Action in Human Skeletal Muscle
(CU02124)
 TONG
2005-06 Synthesis of Recombinant Insulin-Like
Peter
Chun
Yip
Growth Factor-I and Insulin-Like Growth

Factor Binding Protein-3 in Transgenic
COCKRAM Clive Stewart
Rice (MD05915)
 TONG Peter Chun Yip
2003-04 Oxidative Stress and Insulin Resistance
in
Hong
Kong
Chinese
with
Ming Samuel (Biology)
Thalassaemia Minor (CU03439)
 TONG Peter Chun Yip
Chung Ngor Juliana
Leung
(Anatomical
Pathology)

Kei
Christopher
Pathology)

2005-06 #CV181-040A
NG

-
CHAN
Multicenter,
Randomized,
Cellular
Double-Blind,
Placebo-Controlled Phase 3 Trial to
HO Chung Shun
(Chemical Pathology)

CHAN

&
SUN Sai
Chung Ngor Juliana
CHAN Yu


LAM Wai
Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of
(Chemical
Saxagliptin
Heung
in
Combination
with
Glyburide in Subjects with Type 2
Ling
Margaret (Anatomical & Cellular
Diabetes
Who
Have
Inadequate
Pathology)
Glycemic Control on Glyburide Alone.
(MD05502)
 TONG Peter Chun Yip
2004-05 A Phase-3 Randomized, Three Arm,
Double-Blind, Active Controlled, Parallel
Chung Ngor Juliana
Group, Multicenter Trial to Evaluate the
Shan
Safety and Efficacy of Muraglitazar in

Combination with Metformin Compared
Arul*



CHAN
KONG Pik
CHENG Yuen Shan Angela#
MA Ronald*

CHINNAIYAN,
to Glimepiride in Combination with
Metformin in Subjects with Type 2
287
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
2003-04 The
Significance
of
with Moderate to Severe Leukoaraiosis
Microembolic
Signals and New Cerebral Infarcts on the
(CU04317)
Progression of Neurological Deficit in
 WONG Ka Sing Lawrence
Acute Stroke Patients with Middle
Chung Tong Vincent
Cerebral Artery Stenosis (CU03440)
Leung
 WONG Ka Sing Lawrence
Pathology)
CHAN


MOK
CHAN Yu

(Anatomical

&
LAM
Cellular
Wai
Man
Yu Leung (Anatomical & Cellular
Wynnie (Diagnostic Radiology &
Pathology)
Organ Imaging)
LAM

Wai
Man

WOO Kam Sang
Wynnie (Diagnostic Radiology &
(Biochemistry (Science))
Organ Imaging)
Wai Kwong (Psychiatry)
2003-04 A
Randomized,
Double-Blind,

TANG
Multicenter,
2004-05 PRoFESS - COG Sub-Study Effects of
Placebo-Controlled,
BP Lowering with Micardis®, and
18-Month Study of the Efficacy of
Anti-Platelet
Xaliproden
with
Aggenox® or Clopidogrel, on Cognitive
the
Function and Dementia Following Acute
in
Mild-to-Moderate
Patients
Dementia
of
Alzheimer's Type (MD03610)
with
either
Ischaemic Stroke (MD04379)
 WONG Ka Sing Lawrence
Chung Tong Vincent
Therapy

 WONG Ka Sing Lawrence
MOK
Chung Tong Vincent
DAI Lok

Kwan David
Che Fai
Patrick
2004-05 PRoFESS - Prevention Regimen For


Thomas



MOK
HUI Andrew
KWAN Kwok Leung
LEUNG
Wai
SOO Oi Yan

Hong
WONG
Effectively Avoiding Second Strokes: A
Ho Chung Edward
Double-Blind,
Shing Eric#  LEUNG Howan*
Active
and
Placebo

LIANG Ka
Controlled Study of Aggrenox® vs.
Clopidogrel Aspirin, with and without
2005-06 A Pilot Study of Enhanced External
Micardis® (MD04510)
Counterpulsation for Cerebral Blood
 WONG Ka Sing Lawrence
Chung Tong Vincent
Kwok Leung Patrick
Hong Thomas
Eric#




MOK
Flow Augmentation in Chinese Ischemic
KWAN
Stroke Patients with MCA Stenosis

(MD05308)
LEUNG Wai
 WONG Ka Sing Lawrence
LIANG Ka Shing
WONG H C Edward*
Wai

Man
Wynnie

LAM
(Diagnostic
Radiology & Organ Imaging)
LEUNG Howan*

LAM Tsan Augustine*
2004-05 Effect of Multivitamins Supplementation
on the Progression of Cerebral White
Matter
Changes
and
2005-06 A
Cognitive
Double-Blind,
Placebo-Controlled,
Impairment in Chinese Stroke Patients
Randomized,
Parallel
Group,
Multicenter, Phase IIb/III Study to Assess
the Efficacy and Safety of Inravenous
Faculty of Medicine
288
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Stoke
2005-06 Influenza-like Illness in Residential Care
SAINT II (Stroke - Acute Ischemic -
Homes: A Study of the Incidence,
NXY Treatment) (MD05881)
Aetiological Agents, Natural History, and
NXY-059in
Acute
 WONG
Ka
Ischemic
Sing
Lawrence
LEUNG Thomas WH*
Andrew CF*
Vincent*

 WOO Jean
HUI

Duqin*
(Microbiology)

SHARMA Abhishek*  FONG W.F.
David*



IP Margaret
HUI Shu Cheong
David  KWOK Chi Yui Timothy
GRAHAM C A (Accident
2005-06 Non-Erosive Gastroesophageal Reflux
and Emergency Medicine Academic
Disease (NERD): A Disease of Excessive
Unit)
Acid
Stroke:
(DIAS)
A
Double-Blind,
Placebo-Controlled,
Multinational,
Single
Bolus,
Multi-Center,
Parallel
Dose
Ranging
Study
Visceral
Hypersensitivity?
 WU Che Yuen Justin
Prospective,
Randomized,
or
(MD05497)
2005-06 Desmoteplase (INN) in Acute Ischemic
Group,
CHAN Kay Sheung

Paul (Microbiology)
MOK Chung Tong
WANG

Health Resource Utilization (MD05849)

Joseph Jao Yiu

SUNG

CHAN Ka Leung
Francis  LEUNG Wai Keung
of
2005-06 A
Triple-Blinded,
Randomized,
Desmoteplase (INN) in the Indication of
Placebo-Controlled Trial to Examine the
Acute Stroke (MD05358)
Efficacy and Safety of ViNeuro in
 WONG
Ka
Sing
Lawrence
LEUNG Thomas WH*

Patients


Parkinson's
Disease
(MD05950)
MOK
 YEUNG Hon Ming Jonas
Chung Tong Vincent*  LIANG K S
Eric*
with
Ka Sing Lawrence
GRAHAM C A (Accident
and Emergency Medicine Academic


WONG
MOK Chung
Tong Vincent
Unit)
2002-03 A Multicentre, Multinational, Long-Term,
2005-06 A
Placebo-Controlled
Double-Blind,
Extension Study to Assess the Safety and
Parallel Arm Trial to Assess the Efficacy
Toleration
of Dronedarone 400mg Bid for the
Treatment Regimens of Oral Sildenafil
Prevention
Cardiovascular
for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in
Hospitalization or Death from Any Cause
Subjects Who Have Completed Study
in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation/Atrial
A1481140 (MD02489)
Flutter
 YU Cheuk Man
of
(AF/AL)
(ATHENA-Study)
EFC5555 (MD05403)
 WONG Ka Sing Lawrence
Ling#

of

Subject
Chung Tong Vincent*
KONG Shun
MA Wing Yan#
Kwok Gabriel
MOK

Optimised

(Ophthalmology
Sciences)#


YIP Wai
WANG Zheng
and
Visual
WONG Wing Cheong
(Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences)
289
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics

WONG Tai Hung John#
Chi Chiu Leo

 YU Cheuk Man
KUM
John
LAI Hong Yee

Connie*
Elsby#
(Physiology)

SANDERSON

HUANG

Yu
LUNG Wai Ming
Raymond (Anatomical & Cellular
2003-04 Predictors of Response To Cardiac
Pathology)
Resynchronization Therapy (PROSPECT)
2004-05 CONTAKTM RENEWAL ® 4 AVY
(MD03718)
 YU Cheuk Man
System Field Following (MD04679)
FUNG Wing

 YU Cheuk Man
Hong  ZHANG Qing*
Hong
2004-05 A Multicentre, Multinational, Long-Term


FUNG Wing

SANDERSON John Elsby#
CHAN Yat Sun Joseph

CHAN
Extension Study to Assess the Safety and
Chi Kin Hamish
Toleration
Ping Alice#  KONG Shun Ling#
of
Subject
Optimised

CHEUNG Siu
Treatment Regimens of Oral Sildenafil
for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in
2004-05 Consultant Agree with Guidant Inc.
Subjects Who Have Completed Study
(MD04303)
A1481140 (MD02736)
 YU Cheuk Man
 YU Cheuk Man
Gabriel

YIP Wai Kwok

TAM Lai Shan
Chi Chiu Leo

LEE Pui Wai

2004-05 Cardiac Contractility Modulation for the
KUM
Treatment of Heart Failure - Impact of

Haemodynamic Optimization of Lead
LAM Yat Yin
Position (MD04842)
2004-05 Assessment
of
Remodeling
with
Echocardiography
Imaging
Left
in
Tissue
and
Doppler
Strain
Patients
 YU Cheuk Man
Ventricular
after

FUNG W. H.*

CHAN Yat Sun Joseph  CHAN Chi
Rate
Kin Hamish
Acute
Myocardial Infarction Compared with
2004-05 Sensitivity of the InSync Sentry OptiVol
Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance
Feature for the Prediction of Heart
Imaging (CU04312)
Failure (MD04370)
 YU Cheuk Man
Gabriel


 YU Cheuk Man
YIP Wai Kwok
Grace*
LAM Wai Man Wynnie
(Diagnostic Radiology & Organ


CHAN MC
FUNG Wing Hong*

KUM Chi Chiu*  DUAN Delin*
Imaging)  ZHANG Yan
2005-06 FAST (Fluid Accumulation Status Trial)
2004-05 The
Application
of
Baicalein
(MD05932)
and
 YU Cheuk Man  ZHONG Yuzhuo*
Wogonin (Traditional Chinese Medicine)
for
the
Treatment
of
Pathological

Myocardial Fibrosis in an Animal Model
of Hypertension (CU04318)
Faculty of Medicine
290
LUKE Kit Ling*
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Edmond#
2005-06 Early Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibition in
Non-ST-segment
Elevation
FUNG Wing Hong


CHAN Wai Man Wilson
Acute
Coronary Syndrome: A Randomized,
2005-06 A Phase III, 18-month, Multicenter,
Placebo-Controlled Trial Evaluating the
Clinical Benefits of Early Front-loaded
Randomized,
Eptifibatide in the Treatment of Patients
Active-Controlled
with Non-ST-segment Elevation Acute
Compare Rosiglitazone versus Glipizide
Coronary Syndrome (EARLY ACS)
on the Progression of Atherosclerosis in
(MD05967)
Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
 YU Cheuk Man
Wilson

WONG

Man
Lok
YEUNG Leata Y.C.*
Edmond#

Clinical
Trial
to
and Cardiovascular Disease (MD05464)
CHAN Wai Man
KUM Chi Chiu Leo
Double-Blind,
 YU Cheuk Man

Wilson*



YUEN Hui Leung*
KWOK Lai Wah*
WU Eugene
Brian*
CHAN Wai Man


HUANG Ying
Ying*  CHAN YEUNG Yuk Ching
2005-06 Vascular Medicine (Clinical Research)
2005-06 Randomized Evaluation of Long Term
(MD05941)
Anticoagulant
 YU Cheuk Man
ZHANG Qing
YIP Gabriel*

(RE-LY)
Comparing the Efficacy and Safety of

Two
CHAN Yat Sun

Therapy
Blinded
Doses
of
Dabigatran
KUM
Etexilate with Open Label Warfarin for
Chi Chiu Leo  LAM Yat Yin  LEE
the Prevention of Stroke and Systemic
Pui Wai
Embolism in Patients with Non-Valvular
Joseph

CHAN Kin Yin

Atrial
Fibrillation:
Multi-Centre,
2005-06 Assessment of the Effect of Dual
Prospective,
Parallel-Group,
Chamber Pacing on Left Ventricular
Non-Inferiority Trial (RE-LY STUDY)
Diastolic Function in Patients With and
(MD05753)
Without
 YU Cheuk Man
Pre-existing
Diastolic
Dysfunction (CU05485)
 YU Cheuk Man
Joseph


CHAN Yat Sun
CHAN Chin Pang

WONG Man Lok Edmond#
FUNG Wing
Hong
Pui Wai



LEE
CHAN YEUNG Yuk
Ching  CHAN Hoi Man#
2005-06 A
Study
on
the
Epidemiology,
Management and Outcome of Chinese
2005-06 A
Placebo-Controlled,
Double-Blind,
Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Parallel Arm Trial to Assess the Efficacy
(ACS Registry HK) (MD05344)
of Dronedarone 400mg Bid for the
 YU Cheuk Man
Prevention
Leo


KUM Chi Chiu

Cardiovascular
CHAN
Hospitalization or Death from any Cause
WONG Man Lok
in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation/Atrial
CHAN Chin Pang
Lip Kiong
of

291
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Medicine & Therapeutics
Flutter
(AF/AFL)
Registry of Hospitalized Heart Failure
(ATHENA-Study)
(MD05332)
(MD05625)
 YU Cheuk Man
Lawrence


 YU Cheuk Man
WONG Ka Sing
CHAN MC Grace*
Leung*

FUNG Wing Hong*  CHAN Anna*

KWOK Lai Wah*
Richard*

Angela*

Vincent*



Yat Yin*
YUEN Hui
WILLIS Richard*


LAM
KWOK Lai Wah*
CHAN Anna*
WILLIS


YIP Wai Kwok
Gabriel*
LEUNG Yee Man
MOK Chung Tong
FONG W.F. David*
WANG Duqin*

2005-06 Influence

of
Heme
Oxygenase
Nutritional Steatohepatitis (MD05639)
 YU Jun  SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
(An
International
Decompensated Heart Failure Registry) -
Faculty of Medicine
1
Modulation on the Progression of Murine
CHEUNG Chi
Chiu Chris*
2005-06 ADHERE

292
Dept of Microbiology
of specimen collection and information regarding
RESEARCH PROJECTS
their treatment status will be analysed alongside data
generated by spoligotyping and a new RAPD
Epidemiological Analysis and Establishment of a
approach, so as to delineate whether these resistant
DNA
of
isolates share some degree of genetic relatedness.
Mycobacterium
The results shall therefore reveal whether each
Fingerprinting
Database
Multiple-Drug-Resistant
MDR-MTB strain developed independently through
Tuberculosis Clinical Isolates in Hong Kong
drug selection, or emerged through dissemination of
established or parent MDR-MTB strains through the
 CHAN Chiu Yeung Raphael  CHAN Wai Chi 
community. A database of DNA fingerprints of all
KAM Kai Man*  YIP Chi Wai*
resistant strains will also be set up so as to serve as a
 1 January 2007
reference library for matching the genetic identities
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
of future MDR-MTB isolates and for tracing the
Diseases
routes of transmission of such strains in the
Effective treatment of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
community.
(MTB) infections has been compromised by the
(MD06698)
emergence of multi-drug resistant strains of this
organism
(MDR-MTB)
in
the
past
Assessment
decade.
of
Structural
Diversity
and
Although MDR-MTB strains account for only a small
Transposition Efficiency of Two Variant Forms of
proportion (<10%) of all local MTB isolates, results
a Tn4001-like Transposon that Confers High-level
from our recent study involving over 200 MDR-MTB
Gentamicin-Resistance in Clinical Streptococcus
clinical isolates showed that they exhibit a diversity
Pasteurianus Isolates
of resistance patterns, and that isolates resistant to 3
or more anti-tuberculosis drugs were common.
 CHAN Chiu Yeung Raphael  CHAN Wai Chi 
In
AU Tai Kong  FUNG Ka Chun#
addition, a wide spectrum of chromosomal mutations
were also recovered from the known resistance genes,
 30 June 2007
with strains harboring four or more mutations being a
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
common finding. We hypothesize that these highly
Grants)
mutated resistant bacteria did not acquire all
mutations during the course of selection in one
Bacterial transposable genetic elements play a major
patient, and that an organism needs several selection
role in dissemination of resistance determinants among
rounds, which probably involve several patients, to
bacterial pathogens, especially in clinical or hospital
accumulate
settings.
enough
mutations
to
achieve
the
We recently isolated seven clinical
To test this hypothesis, we
Streptococcus pasteurianus strains which exhibited
propose to perform epidemiological analysis of our
high level resistance to gentamicin (MICs. ≥ 512
collection of MDR-MTB which encompasses the vast
µg/ml).
majority of such strains isolated in Hong Kong in the
phenotype was attributable to the chromosomal
past 10 years. Epidemiological data such as the date
integration of a Tn4001-like transposon bearing the
MDR-MTB status.
We have shown that this resistance
aac(6')Ie-aph(2")Ia
293
bi-functional
aminoglycoside
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Microbiology
modifying enzyme gene.
Our results also showed
1. Target at an HPV type relevant to Chinese and
that there were at least two variant forms of
Asian women: The first generation vaccines target
Tn4001-like transposon in these isolates.
The
at HPV 16 and 18 which are the two most
proposed project aims to probe the difference
common types worldwide. However, in China
between the molecular structures of the two forms of
and Asia, other types also cause a significant
Tn4001-like transposons and test their transposition
proportion of cervical cancers. This study will
efficiency in a bacterial host.
target at HPV52 which is one of the priority HPV
The results of this
study should provide valuable information about the
types for China as well as Asia.
structural diversity and possibly reveal whether the
2. Focus on cellular immunity and therapeutic
two variant forms of this important mobile genetic
vaccine
element exhibit differential efficiencies in promoting
vaccines induce a good humoral immune response,
horizontal transfer of aminoglycoside resistance
and thus are effective as prophylactic (i.e.
among Gram-positive clinical isolates.
preventative) vaccines.
(MD06783)
already been infected with HPV and with
development:
The
first
generation
Women who have
established cervical lesions require another form
Identification of Viral Peptide Candidates for the
of vaccine that can achieve therapeutic effect.
Development of Second Generation Cervical
This study aims at identifying viral peptides that
Cancer Vaccines Tailored for Chinese Women
can elicit cellular immunity, so as to provide
essential data for the design of therapeutic
vaccines that can be used to treat pre-cancers.
 CHAN Kay Sheung Paul  CHEUNG Tak Hong
(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

MAN Stephen*
These

have
a
potential
to
established invasive cervical cancer.
 1 January 2007
(CU06483)
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Goal:
also
supplement the existing treatment modes for
TANG Julian Wei Tze
Ultimate
vaccines
Decrease
cervical
A Comparative Study on Host Cellular Gene
cancer-associated deaths, particularly in China
Transcription
and Asia.
Viruses with Different Pathogenicity
Response
to
Avian
Influenza
Background: Cervical cancer kills more than
250,000
women
every
year
 CHAN Kay Sheung Paul
worldwide.

LAM Ching Wan
Vaccines targeting the causative agent human
(Chemical Pathology)
papillomavirus (HPV) will soon be available.
& Cellular Pathology)  TANG Julian Wei Tze 
While these first generation vaccines show
LAM Wai Yip
promising results in clinical trials, there are
 1 January 2007
inadequacies that need to be addressed.
Our

TO Ka Fai (Anatomical
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
study aims at providing essential data for the
Diseases
development of second generation cervical cancer
vaccines.
Background: Influenza pandemic remains a serious
Objectives & Impact:
threat to human health. In addition to H5N1, H7
Faculty of Medicine
294
Dept of Microbiology
and H9 have occasionally succeeded in crossing the
 15 June 2007
species barrier.
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
It is clear that H5, H7, H9 and
perhaps other subtypes also have pandemic potential.
Grants)
The consequence of human infection with avian
influenza viruses varies markedly with the subtype.
The
In addition to viral factors, the difference in host
dysregulation (e.g. TNF-alpha, IP-10) observed in
cellular response is likely to play a critical role.
human H5N1 infection is thought to play a key role
Aims: This study aims at improving our understanding
leading to the severe clinical outcome.
on the pathogenesis of avian influenza infection in
are major mediators of human immune responses.
humans, and with a long term goal leading to the
However, dysregulation of cytokine production may
identification
result in unwanted inflammation and indirect cell
of
novel
intervention
targets
to
inflammatory/proinflammatory
cytokine
Cytokines
ameliorate the outcome of such infection.
damage.
Specific objectives:
both at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional
1.
levels.
2.
3.
To compare the host cellular response to
Cytokine synthesis is tightly regulated
Imbalance between the stability and
infections with highly pathogenic avian influenza
degradation
viruses versus low pathogenic avian influenza
cytokine
viruses and usual human influenza viruses.
inflammatory
Cytokine
To delineate and characterize the repertorie of
of
inflammatory/proinflammatory
mRNAs
can
responses
mRNAs
result
or
contain
in
even
uncontrolled
cell
death.
adenylate-uridine
host cellular response to infections with highly
(AU)-rich element (AREs) in the 3’ untranslated
pathogenic avian infleunza viruses.
regions (UTR) which enables them to be targeted for
stabilization or rapid degradation by a variety of
To identify critical host cellular responses that
ARE-binding proteins.
account for increased pathogenicity.
Study design : This is a comparative study
The genome of influenza A virus is segmented,
comprising the H5, H7, and H9 avian subtypes that
consisting of eight single-stranded, negative-sense
have caused human infections, and the H1 and H3
RNA molecules, which encode 11 proteins.
circulating human subtypes; using an in-vitro lung
found that there is a class I ARE (AUUUA) sequence
cell derived model.
Post-infection effects on host
in the 3’ UTR of the NS1 gene but not in the other
cell gene expression of each influenza subtype will be
viral genes. Since mRNA turnover plays a major
examined initially by the broad-catching technique
role in regulating cellular function, it is possible that
based on a well-characterized microarray assay that
viruses may utilize this route to regulate cellular gene
covers 3,300 human genes. The screening results
expression
will be confirmed by gene-specific assays at the
Therefore, we hypothesize that influenza A virus
transcription and translation levels.
infection will directly or indirectly cause an
(MD06903)
imbalance between the stability and degradation of
to
enhance
its
own
It is
replication.
the mRNAs of early inflammatory/proinflammatory
Effect of Influenza A H5N1 Infection on the
cytokines,
and
result
in
abnormal
cytokine
Turnover of TNF-Alpha mRNA of Host Cell
production, especially in H5N1 infection.
We
propose to study the effect of infection with different
subtypes of influenza A viruses on the stability of
 CHAN Kay Sheung Paul  LAM Wai Yip
295
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Microbiology
TNF-alpha mRNA in an in-vitro human lung cell
characteristics of local MDR-MTB isolates, and
model.
should help identify any deleterious physiological
(MD06522)
and metabolic changes that may render the resistant
organisms less growth-competitive as compared to
Assessment of Physiological Fitness of Drug
their drug-sensitive counterparts. In addition, since
Resistant Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Clinical
we identified a sub-set of MDR-MTB strains which
Isolates in Hong Kong
harbour no detectable chromosomal mutations in the
corresponding resistance genes, we propose here to
 CHAN Wai Chi  CHAN Chiu Yeung Raphael 
further characterize them by the proteomic approach,
AU Tai Kong  CHEUNG Wai Tsoi Frankie*
and hope the results may lead to a better
understanding of the drug resistance mechanism in
 1 January 2007
this category of MDR-MTB isolates.
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
(MD06525)
Diseases
Mycobacterium
tuberculosis
(MTB)
infections
Urethritis in Male Patients – Study on the
remain an important infectious disease in Hong Kong.
Molecular Basis of Fluoroquinolone Resistance in
In 2004 there were 6295 recorded cases of MTB,
Neiserria Gonorrhoea, and Preliminary Study on
corresponding to a rate of 91.46 per 100,000 people.
the Family Mycoplasmataceae in Non-gocococcal
Our current efforts to contain this disease has been
Urethritis
complicated by the emergence of multi-drug resistant
strains of this organism (MDR-MTB).
 HUI Mamie
Results from

LUK Nai Ming Tommy
our recent analysis of over 200 MDR-MTB clinical
(Medicine & Therapeutics)
isolates showed that the resistance patterns were very
Yeung Raphael
diverse, and that strains exhibiting resistance to 3 or

CHAN Chiu
 30 June 2007
more anti-tuberculosis drugs were common. Each
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
of the drug resistance phenotypes was also found to
Grants)
be associated with a wide spectrum of chromosomal
mutations in the corresponding resistance gene. In
Urethritis is a common presentation for male patients
order to evaluate the potential threat of these
attending the sexually transmitted diseases clinic.
MDR-MTB strains in Hong Kong, we propose here
The diseases are clinically divided into gonococcal
to assess the physiological fitness of these organisms
urethritis and non-gonococcal urethritis.
and determine whether major resistance phenotypes
gonorrhoeae,
developed at a physiological cost.
Experiments are
gonococcal urethritis, can be treated with a single
designed to measure their growth rates and
dose of empiric antibiotic. However, emergence of
characterise the virulence and proteomic profiles of
resistance
selected strains, followed by comparison to those of
Fluoroquinolones, was once the antibiotic of choice,
the drug-sensitive organisms. Information obtained
but its resistance has been reported. In particular,
from this study shall complement our current
our collaborative study with Jiangsu Province, China,
knowledge
had reported fluoroquinolone resistance of nearly
on
the
Faculty of Medicine
genotypic
and
phenotypic
296
the
is
pathogen
observed
Nesseria
responsible
for
world-wide.
Dept of Microbiology
100%.
Fluoroquinolone resistance is associated
classified according to their viral nucleic acid
with point mutations in the quinolone resistance
sequence similarity.
determining region (QRDR), especially in gyrA and
In Hong Kong, previous studies have shown that
parC. Accumulation of multiple point mutations in
HCV genotypes l b and 6a are the commonest,
these sites, not only lead to a cumulative increase in
though other genotypes (la, 2a, 3a, and 4) are also
MIC levels, but also signify its path down the
present. Whilst HCV genotype l b can be found
evolutionary
such
worldwide and responds least well to treatment, HCV
information is still scarcely available. At the same
6a is relatively unique to Southeast Asia and has an
time, the other clinical entity: non-gonococcal
intermediate response to treatment.
urethritis, are still minimally understood.
It is
The different HCV genotypes may have been
believed to be caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and
introduced into Hong Kong at different times by
the
(including
different populations (e.g. intravenous drug-users,
Mycoplasma hominis, Mycoplasma genitalium, and
blood donors), and spread amongst these different
Ureaplasma
these
populations by different routes (e.g. intravenous via
organisms, especially the group Mycoplasmataceae,
drug abuse or blood transfusion, or more rarely,
are difficult to cultivate in vitro.
sexual and vertical transmission).
family
stream.
of
In
Hong
Mycoplasmataceae
urealyticum).
Kong,
However,
Thus information
on their prevalence and antibiotic resistance are
We propose to sequence full-length HCV 6a
limited.
Often, the treatment of which is based on
genomes (approximately 9.4 kb in length) and apply
empirical ground and response to treatment. With
phylogenetic analysis to both the whole genome as
the advent of molecular techniques and microculture
well as the individual genes to determine the epidemic
techniques, it would allow studies to understand the
history and evolution of HCV 6a in Hong Kong.
prevalence and drug susceptibilities of these genital
The presence of any recombination will investigated,
mycoplasmas.
particularly within the putative interferon-sensitivity
(MD06497)
determining region (ISDR) within the NS5A gene.
This will further characterize the behaviour of HCV
The Molecular Epidemiology of Hepatitis C
6a infections in Hong Kong, which may be useful in
Genotype 6a in Hong Kong
the future management of this disease. Presently,
there are few HCV 6a sequences available on public
 TANG Julian Wei Tze

databases,
CHAN Kay Sheung
to
which
this
project
will
add
significantly.
Paul  NGAI Lei Ka
(MD06981)
 1 June 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
Grants)
for more details of the following ongoing research
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects approximately 3% of
at the department:
the world’s population (about 170 million people)
and is one of the leading causes for liver
Edition
Title/Investigators
transplantation in developed countries. It exists in
several subtypes called ‘genotypes’ which are
297
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Microbiology
2003-04 Development of Oligonucleotide Probe
2005-06 Development of Antiviral Compound for
Microarrays for Molecular Detection of
Drug
Resistance
in
Avian Influenza H5N1 (MD05824)
Mycobacterium
 CHAN Kay Sheung Paul
Tuberculosis (CU03430)
 CHAN Chiu Yeung Raphael

2005-06 Differential Gene Expression Analysis of
CHENG Fun Bun Augustine#  HUI
Bacterial Stress Responses to Antibiotic
Mamie
Induction and Selection (MD05376)
 CHAN Wai Chi
2004-05 Mechanisms of Lymphocyte Loss in
SARS-CoV Infection (MD04850)
 CHAN Kay Sheung Paul


CHAN Chiu
Yeung Raphael
CHEN
2004-05 Hospital
Gong George (Surgery)
Surveillance
of
Childhood
Respiratory Infections in Hong Kong
(MD04526)
2005-06 Identification of T-cell Epitopes in
Oncogenic Human Papillomavirus to
 IP Margaret
Provide a Foundation for Developing
Anthony
Peptide-based
SUNG Yn Tz Rita (Paediatrics)
Prophylactic
and
Therapeutic Vaccines against Cervical

NELSON Edmund
Severn
(Paediatrics)


CHAN Kay Sheung Paul
Cancer (CU05487)
 CHAN
Kay
Sheung
Paul
2004-05 Rapid

Detection
of
Food-Borne
CHEUNG Tak Hong (Obstetrics &
Pathogens in Clinical Specimens, Foods
Gynaecology)
and Environmental Samples (MD04353)

NGAI Sai Ming
 LING Mei Lun Julia
(Biology)  Stephen MAN*
2005-06 Development
2005-06 Identification of T-Cell Epitopes of
SARS-Coronavirus:
Provision
Methods
of
of
for
Rapid
the
Molecular
Detection
and
Investigation
of
Fundamental Data for the Design of
Epidemiological
Peptide-Based
Food-Borne Outbreaks (MD05710)
Vaccines
and
the
 LING Mei Lun Julia
Development of Peptide-Based Cellular
Immunity
Assessment
Methods
2005-06 Sequencing and Phylogenetic Analysis of
(MD05912)
 CHAN Kay Sheung Paul
Sai Ming (Biology)

NGAI
Influenza A Isolates Collected Over the
Stephen
Past 15 Years at the Prince of Wales

Hospital, Hong Kong (MD05636)
MAN*
 TANG Julian Wei Tze  CHAN Kay
2005-06 Development
and
Validation
for
a
Sheung Paul
Low-Cost HIV Viral Load Monitoring
Assay (MD05877)
 CHAN Kay Sheung Paul
Faculty of Medicine
298
The Nethersole School of Nursing
(CU06531)
RESEARCH PROJECTS
Establishing Psychometric Properties of the Labor
Second Primary Malignancies Associated with
Agentry Scale (LAS) among Chinese Post-partum
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma in Hong Kong
Women
 GOGGINS III William Bernard
 IP Wan Yim  CHIEN Wai Tong

YU Tak Sun
Ignatius (Community and Family Medicine)
 30 June 2007
 1 January 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Grants)
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
This project is a pilot study designed to determine the
The purpose of this study is to establish the
feasibility of conducting a large scale retrospective
psychometric properties of the Chinese version of
cohort study to determine the risk of second primary
Labour Agentry Scale (Hodnett, 1982) among Hong
malignancies among survivors of nasopharyngeal
Kong Chinese postpartum women.
carcinoma (NPC) in Hong Kong. Such a study is
The study comprises two phases. In the first phase
desirable since the question of whether or not NPC
of the study, the English version of LAS will first be
survivors have an excess risk of second primaries has
translated
not been satisfactorily addressed by previous studies
independently back translated, according to the
and survivors of NPC are both numerous in Hong
translation procedure suggested by Brislin (1986).
Kong and relatively young.
The pilot study will
A focus group interview with a 6-8 postpartum
retrospectively collect data for a few hundred NPC
women will be conducted to strengthen the cultural
patients, including age at and date of diagnosis of NPC,
equivalence of the translated tool. An expert panel
gender, date of death or last follow-up, date of
will be invited to establish the content validity index
development of any second primaries, and type of
of the translated version. After that, the research
treatment from the records of hospital oncology
assistant will recruit 20 postpartum women to test the
departments.
semantic equivalence of the Chinese and English
The Hong Kong ID numbers of these
into
Chinese
language
and
then
patients will then be used to perform searches of
versions.
The second phase will examine the
databases from the Hong Kong Cancer Registry, the
internal consistency and construct validity of the
Hospital Authority, and the Mortality database of the
Chinese version of the LAS in a convenience sample
Hong Kong Census and Statistics Department in
of 290 eligible postpartum women within 48 hours
order to ascertain and/or verify second cancer cases
after delivery. The participants will be asked to fill
and deaths. The results of the pilot study will be used
in the translated LAS and the Visual Analogue Scale
to determine whether or not completeness of patient
for Pain and Anxiety during labour.
follow-up and ascertainment and verification of
A pilot study on 5 eligible subjects will be carried out
second cancer cases are sufficient to allow an
to assess the feasibility of the study.
unbiased assessment of second cancer risk in Hone
will help develop a reliable and valid measure of
Kong NPC patients at this time.
Chinese LAS which is the cornerstone in a currently
This findings
planned study that evaluate the effectiveness of a
299
Faculty of Medicine
The Nethersole School of Nursing
training program to promote Chinese pregnant
social care professionals to identify and evaluate
women’s sense of control over childbirth.
appropriate interventions to promote the care of older
(MD06747)
people with CHF; and ii) provide a Chinese cultural
perspective
to
understanding
Adjusting to Living with Chronic Heart Failure:
adjustment to living with CHF.
A Culturally Relevant Framework for Chinese
(CU06658)
older
people’s
Elders
The Effectiveness of Compression Bandaging on
 LEE Tze Fan Diana
THOMPSON David
Wound Healing and Psychosocial Outcomes in
Robert (School of Public Health)  YU Sau Fung
Older People with Venous Ulcers-A Randomized
Doris  WOO Jean (Medicine & Therapeutics)
Controlled Trial

 1 November 2006
 WONG Kit Yee Irene
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)

LEE Tze Fan Diana

THOMPSON David Robert (School of Public
The incidence and mortality rate of chronic heart
Health)
failure (CHF) is increasing sharply in the older
KWONG Kwok Hung (Surgery)
population in Hong Kong. While a large body of
Wai Lin*
research reveals that this condition causes immense

LAU Yun Wong James (Surgery)


TSANG AU
 1 May 2007
loss in many areas of an older person’s life and
 Health and Health Services Research Fund
requires tremendous changes in many aspects of
daily living, little is known of the dynamic process
Purpose: Examine over time the health outcomes
through which the older person adjusts to living with
among three groups of older people with venous
this illness. Still less is known of this process in
ulcers in the community: those recieving either
older Chinese people with CHF.
four-layer
This study is to develop a culturally relevant
compression bandage; or usual care.
theoretical framework to explain older Chinese
Objectives: Compare the time to healing, wound size,
people’s
CHF.
ulcer related pain, functional status, and quality of
Approximately 80 older CHF patients from an
life among patients receiving either four-layer
out-patient department of the medical unit of a
compression bandage; short stretch compression
regional hospital will be invited to participate in an
bandage; or usual care before treament, at 12 and 24
in-depth
weeks after treatment.
adjustment
interview
to
to
living
identify
with
the
problems,
compression
bandage;
short
stretch
challenges, strategies and tactics older people use to
Design and subjects: A randomized controlled trial
live with CHF. The chief emphasis is to discover
that involves two experimental groups and one
the process by which older people re-order the
control group will be employed.
patterns and priorities of their lives as they go about
venous ulcer patients (107 in each group) with ankle
living with CHF.
brachial pressure index equal or greater than 0.8 will
Specific cultural beliefs that
A total of 321
contribute to the understanding of these experiences
be recruited.
will also be explored. Results of this study will i)
Instruments: Modified Parkside Health Trust Leg
produce a sound theoretical basis for health and
Ulcer Record, VeV VERGe Videometer, Brief Pain
Faculty of Medicine
300
The Nethersole School of Nursing
Inventory,
Frenchay
Activities
Index,
Short
of a subacute hospital and a community-based
Form-12item Health Survey, Charing Cross Venous
program for focus group interview.
Ulcer Questionnaire, Treatment record.
Chinese heart failure patients will be recruited from
Interventions:
the medical out-patient clinic of a regional hospital for
Control group - usual care.
testing the psychometric properties of the SCHFI
Experimental group 1 - usual care plus four-layer
(Chinese version).
compression bandage.
Data collection and main outcome measures: Focus
Experimental group 2- usual care plus short stretch
group interviews exploring the symptom experience
compression bandage.
and the associated self-care of the patients will be
Outcome
measures
analysis:Descriptive
conducted “to inform and improve the cultural
statistics such as frequency count, percentage, and
relevancy and contextual appropriateness of the
central
Chinese versions of SCHFI and EHFScBS.
tendency
and
Another 150
will
demographic data.
be
used
to
analyze
After
Time to healing will be
completing the cross-cultural adaptation of the SCHFI
compared using the Kaplan-Meier survival curves.
and the EHFScBS, the Chinese versions of the SCHFI
Repeated measures analysis of variance will be used
and EHFScBS, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression
to examine differences among the means of ulcer
Scale (HADS), and the Medical Outcomes Study
related pain, functional status, and quality of life
Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS-C) will be
across the study period.
administered to the heart failure patients attending the
(MD06916)
Out-patient Department, for establishing the validity
and reliability of the Chinese versions of the SCHFI
Assessing Self-Care Behavior of Heart Failure
and the EHFScBS.
Patients: Cross-Cultural Adaptation of Two Heart
Data analysis: Systematic coding via content analysis
Failure Self-Care Instruments
will be used to analyse the data of focus group
interview.
The construct validity of the Chinese
THOMPSON David
versions of SCHFI and EHFScBS will be determined
Robert (School of Public Health)  LEE Tze Fan
by their respective correlations with the HADS and the
Diana  WOO Jean (Medicine & Therapeutics)
MOSSSS-C. The factorial validity of the Chinese
 YU Sau Fung Doris

version of the SCHFI (Chinese version) will be
 1 October 2006
examined by using confirmatory factor analysis.
 Health & Health Services Research Fund
The internal consistency of the Chinese versions of
Objectives: The aim of this study is to adapt the
SCHFI and EHFScBS will be determined by using
Self-Care Heart Failure Index (SCHFI) and the
Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and item analysis.
European Heart Failure Self-care Behavioral Scale
Conclusion: Effective self-care behavior of heart
(EHFScBS) for use in the Chinese population, and to
failure patients plays a vital role in preventing
establish its validity and reliability.
avodable hospital readmissions.
Design: Methodological research with descriptive
SCHFI and the EHFScBS for use in the Chinese
correlational and focus group methods.
population with heart failure in Hong Kong is timely
Setting and subjects: A total of 20 Chinese heart
and important. It can enhance our understanding of
failure patients will be recruited from the medical unit
the self-care needs of the Chinese HF patients and
301
Adapting the
Faculty of Medicine
The Nethersole School of Nursing
give
directions
to
disease
2005-06 "Doing the Month" An Exploratory Study
It also serves as an
of Three Generations of Chinese Women
develop
management intervention.
effective
important outcome measure of the existing heart
(CU05676)
failure-related health care services and interventions.
 CHAN Wai Chi Sally
(MD06561)
Eleanor Anne#

HOLROYD
LOPEZ Violeta

(School of Public Health)#
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
2005-06 Assessing Sexual Functioning Amongst
for more details of the following ongoing research
Hong
at the department:
Kong
Chinese
Women
with
Gynecological Cancer: The Validation of
Edition
Disease-Specific
Title/Investigators
Sexual
Functioning
Instruments (MD05658)
2005-06 The
Effectiveness
Multidisciplinary
Cardiac
of
A
 CHAN YIP Carmen Wing Han
Structured
Weight
Reduction
Rehabilitation
Program
TWINN Sheila Frances
Kin Fong Karis
 CHAIR Sek Ying


MENG Hong*
Tung Ching*

Man
SONG You

Wing
MOK Shu Kam
Connie
of
the
Oropharyngeal
Learning
in

Mucositis-specific
 CHENG Kin Fong Karis

LEUNG
Sing Fai (Clinical Oncology)
TWINN Sheila
LEE Tze Fan Diana
An
with Cancer Therapy (MD05688)
Nursing
Education: A Pilot Project (MD05618)

OMQoL:
Measure of Quality of Life in Patients
2005-06 An Evaluation of Two Approaches to
Frances
(Clinical
LAU Leo Woon
2005-06 Development
 CHAIR Sek Ying
WONG

Oncology)  SHIU Tak Ying Ann
CHAN
Ming*
Case-Based
CHENG

Tony (Clinical Oncology)
(MD05906)
Qiang*


Wai Ming Josepha*



TAI
THOMPSON
KEMBER David Richard (Centre for
David Robert (School of Public
Learning
Health)  DUAN En Kui*
Enhancement
and
Research)
2005-06 Risk Factors for Oral Mucositis in
Pediatric
2004-05 The Provision and Evaluation of a
Patients
Undergoing
Suicide Prevention and Management
Chemotherapy: A Matched Case-Control
Programme by Frontline Nurses in Hong
Study (MD05543)
Kong (MD04733)
 CHENG Kin Fong Karis
LEE
Vincent (Paediatrics)  THOMPSON
 CHAN Wai Chi Sally  CHIEN Wai
David Robert (School of Public
Tong  TSO Steve*
Health)
Faculty of Medicine

302
The Nethersole School of Nursing
LEE Albert (Community and Family
2004-05 Privacy and Dignity in Residential Care
Homes:
Framework
A
Culturally
for
Medicine)
Relevant
Chinese
Elders
LAM

Augustine
(Community and Family Medicine)*
(CU04161)

 LEE Tze Fan Diana  LOW Lisa Pau
(School of Public Health)
Le
THOMPSON
David

Robert
CHENG
YAM FK Frances (Centre for Health
Ed. & Health Promotion)
2004-05 An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of
Different
Models
of
Health
Care
Delivery in the Primary Care Setting of
General Outpatient Clinics in Hong Kong
(MD04712)
 TWINN Sheila Frances

LOPEZ
Violeta (School of Public Health)#

303
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
the placenta has been shown to release its mRNA into
RESEARCH PROJECTS
maternal
blood
plasma.
Furthermore,
we
hypothesise that a panel of aberrantly expressed
Application of Functional Genomics in Human
mRNA transcripts of the preterm placenta can be
Placenta and Quantification of Placental mRNA in
detected in maternal plasma and hence can serve as
Maternal Plasma for Study of Term and Preterm
non-invasive molecular markers for preterm labour.
Partutition
(CU06484)
 CHIM Siu Chung Stephen

Dennis (Chemical Pathology)
Ngong

LO Yuk Ming
Genetic and Development Defects of a Mouse
LEUNG Tse
Mutant Mcc with Microphthalmia, Cataract and

Closed eyelid
CHIU Wai Kwun Rossa (Chemical
Pathology)  LAU Tze Kin
 CHOY Kwong Wai  SHAM Mai Har*  SONG
 1 January 2007
You
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Qiang*

PANG
Chi
Pui
Calvin
(Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences)
Preterm birth, defined as delivery before 37
 1 September 2006
completed weeks of gestation, is the leading cause of
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
perinatal
mortality
and
morbidity
in
modern
Grants)
obstetrics. Currently, the exact mechanism of preterm
labour remain elusive, so widely-used prediction
Congenital cataract is a leading cause of visual
markers are unavailable and the treatment strategies
disability
have been hampered.
Prior to labour onset, an
identification of genetic mutations that cause cataract
integrated series of changes occur within the
is the first step in understanding the molecular
myometrium, cervix, decidua, gestational membranes,
mechanisms for cataract formation. Congenital
although the main triggers have not been identified.
cataract has a heterogeneous genetic basis, to date
The placenta produces many substances implicated in
about 15 causative genes have been identified in
the labouring process and is known to have an
cataract patients. Studies of mouse mutants, either
important influence on triggering labour in primates.
naturally occurring or generated by gene knockout
However, there is currently no study addressing the
technology, have greatly facilitated our understanding
genome-wide gene expression profiling of placentas
of the genetic basis of cataract and congenital eye
from women undergoing (i) spontaneous labour at
defects. Characterization of cataract mouse mutants
term; (ii) elective caesarean section (no labour) at
not only lead to the identification of a wider spectrum
term; and (iii) preterm deliveries. In this proposed
of cataract related genes, but also allow the study of
study, we will fill in this gap by analysing the mRNA
the cellular and molecular basis for normal eye and
levels of over 33,000 genes in these 3 groups of
lens development. In our laboratory we have
placentas with the Affymetrix GeneChip microarrays.
identified a spontaneously occurring mouse mutant
We hypothesise that preterm parturition involves
named Mcc, which displays combined features of
aberrant gene expression in the placenta. Previously,
microphthalmia (small eye), cataract and closed
among
children
worldwide.
The
eyelid that transmit through generations as an
Faculty of Medicine
304
Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
autosomal dominant trait. In our pilot study by
performance
genome-wide mapping and linkage analysis, we have
identification
located the susceptible region to mouse chromosome
abnormalities in prenatal diagnostics has not yet
1. The aim of this project is to identify the Mcc
been established.
mutant gene locus by fine mapping and cloning, and
ability to permits the simultaneous rapid high
to characterize the abnormal eye phenotypes of Mcc
resolution genome analysis and mapping of DNA
during mouse development, in order to understand
sequences, aCGH will become a routine cytogenetic
how the defective gene function lead to the eye and
testing procedure within the near future. However,
lens defects. In this project, we shall identify a new
there are many questions that need to be addressed
gene/mutation involved in eye and lens development,
before aCGH could be used routinely in perinatal
which may be responsible for human congenital eye
medicine. Among these issues, the one appear to
defect. By examining the developmental defects of
be most important is the accuracy and reliability of
the Mcc mutant eye, novel mechanisms and pathways
aCGH in perinatal medicine has not yet been
for eye and lens developmental processes will be
established. This proposal outlines a pilot study to
discovered. It is possible that some of the genes
investigate the accuracy, efficacy and clinical
causing early onset cataract will be implicated in age
advantages of cytogenetic prenatal diagnosis using
related cataract which remains the most common
high
cause of blindness
the world. Therefore,
genomic hybridization as compared to standard
identification of the Mcc gene will have an impact in
conventional forms of cytogenetic analysis such as
our understanding of human eye diseases.
G-banded chromosome analysis and rapid FISH
(MD06518)
(fluorescence in situ hybridization). Notably, this
in
and
of
resolution
potential
for
unbalance
detection
and
chromosomal
We anticipate that given its
microarray-based
comparative
study could potentially lead to the identification of
Development and Validation of Comparative
new categorized micro-deletion or micro-duplication
Genomic Hybridization based Microarray for
syndromes.
Prenatal Cytogenetic Diagnosis
(MD06588)
 CHOY Kwong Wai

WANG Chi Chiu

LAU
Genetic Association Study in Hong Kong Chinese
Tze Kin
Women with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
 1 February 2007
 CHOY Kwong Wai  YIP Shing Kai Alexander
 Agilent Technologies Incorporation - Research
 1 March 2007
Project Grant
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Microarray
based
hybridization
technique
comprehensive
comparative
(aCGH)
discovery
enables
Grants)
a
chromosomal
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common yet
aberrations at a resolution unattainable by other
distressing pelvic floor dysfunction affecting one-third
molecular
of
cytogenetic
of
genomic
techniques.
Since
its
adult
women
worldwide.
However,
the
development, aCGH has been applied mostly in the
underlying pathophysiology is largely unknown. Its
field of cancer cytogenetics.
etiology is multifactorial, including direct mechanical
However, its
305
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
injury, partial denervation of pelvic floor, and
The introduction of intracytoplasmic sperm injection
hormonal changes caused by pregnancy.
Findings
(ICSI), where an immobilized sperm is injected
from epidemiologic studies suggest that occurrence
directly into the cytoplasm of the oocyte, has
of POP can be attributed to genetic factors.
revolutionized the treatment of male sterility. ICSI
The
disease is an example of a complex trait, where the
bypasses
course of the disease could be influenced by a
determining
combination of common variation in an assemblage
ultimately fertilize oocyte.
of genes and the effect of a wide range of risk factors.
DNA is essential for the accurate transmission of
However, there is still lack of studies to investigate
genetic material to offspring.
the genetic association of female pelvic organ prolapse.
always show oligozoospermia and thus had higher
We hypothesized that genetic variants affecting genes
risk of transmission genetic defects to offsprings.
involved in the collagen and extracellular matrix
Embryos fertilized with sperm samples with a higher
metabolism may be involved in the pathogenesis of
DNA damage had oligozoospermia had lower
POP via modulating collagen and extracellular matrix
implantation rate and live birth rate.
protein contents in urogential tissues, and hence
which still remains of the utmost importance for ICSI
affect the biomechanical property of the pelvic floor
is sperm DNA integrity. In this research, first, we
tissues.
In this study, we search for functionally
will use biochemical methods to determine the DNA
relevant genetic variants in genes involve in
integrity of spermatozoa that do ICSI in our IVF
regulating connective tissue structure (EDN1, TIMP,
reproduction center, group the patients with their
MMPs) or hormonal response (ESR1 and ESR2) to
DNA integrity parameters and trace the output after
investigate its prevalence among Hong Kong Chinese
ICSI in different groups. Secondly, protein 2D-gel
women with and without POP.
The results will
electrophoresis and mass spectrometry are used to
enable us to establish a genetic basis for such disease
reveal the differences between the DNA damaged
and revealing genetic alterations unique to POP that
and the normal spermatozoa in order to find protein
shed light on disease pathophysiology.
markers of DNA damaged spermatozoa.
(MD06309)
(MD06877)
Studies on DNA Damages in Spermatozoa which
Studies on DNA Damages in Spermatozoa from
Have Failed to Fertilize Oocytes in Vitro and
Men with Oligozoospermia and Possible Protein
Potential Protein Markers of DNA Damage
Markers for DNA Damages
 HAN Yibing

HAINES Christopher John
all
natural
which
 HAN Yibing

LAM Po Mui  CHIU Tak Yu Tony  CHEUNG

selection
sperm
will
methods
for
penetrate
and
Good quality sperm
Patients doing ICSI
One factor
HAINES Christopher John

LAM Po Mui  CHIU Tak Yu Tony
Lai Ping
 1 June 2007
 13 February 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 Hong Kong Obstetrical and Gynaecological
Grants)
Trust Fund
The introduction of intracytoplasmic sperm injection
(ICSI), where an immobilized sperm is injected
Faculty of Medicine
306
Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
directly into the cytoplasm of the oocyte, has
techniques. Since its development, array-CGH has
revolutionized the treatment of male sterility. ICSI
been applied mostly in the field of cancer
bypasses
all
determining
natural
which
selection
sperm
ultimately fertilize oocyte.
methods
for
cytogenetics.
penetrate
and
potential for detection and identification of unbalance
Good quality sperm
chromosomal abnormalities in prenatal diagnostics
will
However, its performance and
DNA is essential for the accurate transmission of
has not yet been established.
genetic material to offspring.
Patients doing ICSI
given its ability to permits the simultaneous rapid
always show oligozoospermia and thus had higher
high resolution genome analysis and mapping of
risk of transmission genetic defects to offsprings.
DNA sequences, array-CGH will become a routine
Embryos fertilized with sperm samples with a higher
cytogenetic testing procedure within the near future.
DNA damage had oligozoospermia had lower
However, there are many questions that need to be
implantation rate and live birth rate.
addressed before aCGH could be used routinely in
One factor
We anticipate that
which still remains of the utmost importance for ICSI
perinatal medicine.
is sperm DNA integrity. In this research, first, we
appear to be most important.
will use biochemical methods to determine the DNA
and reliability of array-CGH in perinatal medicine
integrity of spermatozoa that do ICSI in our IVF
has not yet been established. Secondly, the clinical
reproduction center, group the patients with their DNA
implication of existence of copy number variation
integrity parameters and trace the output after ICSI in
(CNV) in the genomes of healthy individuals.
different
2D-gel
proposal outlines a pilot study to investigate the
electrophoresis and mass spectrometry are used to
accuracy, efficacy and clinical advantages of
reveal the differences between the DNA damaged
cytogenetic prenatal diagnosis using array-based
and the normal spermatozoa in order to find protein
comparative genomic hybridization as compared to
markers of DNA damaged spermatozoa.
standard conventional forms of cytogenetic analysis
(MD06663)
such as G-banded chromosome analysis and rapid
groups.
Secondly,
protein
Among these questions, two
Firstly, the accuracy
This
FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization). Notably,
A Pilot Study on Microarray based Comparative
this study could potentially lead to the identification
Genomic Hybridization for Prenatal Cytogenetic
of
Diagnosis
micro-duplication syndromes.
new
categorized
micro-deletion
or
(MD06344)
 LAU Tze Kin

WANG Chi Chiu

CHOY
Kwong Wai
Role of Eicosanoid-related Enzymes in Murine
 15 March 2007
Embryogenesis
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Grants)
 WANG Chi Chiu

Kuhn Hartmut*

Borchert
Astrid*
Microarray based comparative genomic hybridization
technique (array-CGH) enables a comprehensive
 1 January 2007
discovery of chromosomal aberrations at a resolution
 Germany/Hong Kong Joint Research Scheme
unattainable
by
other
molecular
cytogenetic
307
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Eicosanoids such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes
There is no literature studying the physiological
are important lipid mediators, which have been
pattern recognition lectins during normal pregnancy.
implicated in regulation of cell physiology but also in
In this study, we proposed to use pregnant mice as
the pathogenesis of various diseases with major
control model to characterise the maternal and
health political importance (cardiovascular diseases,
placental lectins throughout the gestation. Dynamic
inflammation,
etc.).
changes of lectin concentrations in maternal plasma,
Unfortunately, little is know about the relevance of
and temporal and spatial mRNA and protein
eicosanoid metabolism for developmental processes
expressions of lectins in uterus/decidua and placenta
such
embryonic
from early to late gestation will be investigated.
This collaborative research project
The results of this study will not only provide the
is aimed at investigating the developmental defects in
physiological data of lectins in the feto-maternal
murine embryogenesis, which can induced by
interactions during normal pregnancy, but also
siRNA-mediated expression silencing of eicosanoid
provide background information to compare with the
related gene products or selective enzyme inhibition.
pathological change of lectins during abnormal
(MD06677)
pregnancy in animal models.
as
neurodegeneration,
cell
organogenesis.
maturation
and/or
(MD06876)
Characterisation of Pattern Recognition Lectins
During Normal Pregnancy in Mouse
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
for more details of the following ongoing research
 WANG Chi Chiu

CHOY Kwong Wai

LAU
at the department:
Tze Kin  ROGERS Michael Scott
Edition
 1 March 2007
Title/Investigators
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
2005-06 Feasibility Study on Using MicroRNAs
Grants)
as Fetal RNA Markers in Maternal
Lectins are a type of pattern recognition receptor
Plasma (MD05393)
protein that interact with carbohydrate molecules in
 CHIM Siu Chung Stephen  LO Yuk
pathogens and involve in lectin-complement pathway
Ming Dennis (Chemical Pathology)
for innate immunity.

We have identified the
LEUNG Tse Ngong

CHIU Wai
abnormal changes of plasma lectins in pregnant
Kwun Rossa (Chemical Pathology) 
women complicated with pre-eclampsia, an unknown
LAU Tze Kin
hypertensive disorder unique to pregnant women.
The lectins were specifically bind to apoptotic
2005-06 A Pilot Study on Proteome Profiling of
trophoblasts and participated in its clearance in
Ligamentous Tissues and Peri-Urethral
pre-eclamptic placentae.
Skin in Patients with Pelvic Organ
Local and systemic innate
proinflammatory cytokines were then triggered and
Prolapse (MD05836)
clinical
 CHOY Kwong Wai  YIP Shing Kai
manifestation
of
pre-eclampsia
was
developed.
Faculty of Medicine
Alexander
308

WANG Chi Chiu

Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
 HAN Yibing  HAINES Christopher
POON Chuen Wai (Medicine &
John  LAM Po Mui
Therapeutics)
2005-06 Postpartum Depression Among Hong
2003-04 Vaginal Birth after Caesarean Section -
Kong Chinese Men (MD05581)
Effect
 CHUNG Kwok Hung Tony
Shing Kai Alexander

on
Maternal
YIP
Function (CU03423)
LOK Hung
 LAU Tze Kin

Ingrid
Hung Tony
Psychosocial
CHUNG Kwok

LEE Tak Shing

Dominic (Centre of Research and
2005-06 A
Multicenter,
Double-Blind,
Promotion of Women's Health)
Randomized, Placebo Controlled Study
on
the Effect
of Ultra-Low

LEUNG Tse Ngong
Dose
Transdermal Estradiol (Menostar® 0.014
2003-04 Hyperglycamia and Adverse Pregnancy
mg/day via weekly patch) on the
Outcome Study (MD03946)
Incidence and Severity of Hot Flushes,
 LI Chi Yin
Other Menopausal Symptoms and on
ROGERS Michael

Scott  NG Pak Cheung (Paediatrics)
Well-Being in Postmenopausal Asian
Women Over 12 Weeks (MD05692)
 HAINES Christopher John
Siu Ping*
2004-05 An
XIONG Zhuo*

Chinese

Women
in
 LOK Hung Ingrid
of
of
Hong
Kong
(MD04554)
CHUNG Kwok Hung Tony
2005-06 Measurement
Study
Psychiatric Morbidity Among Infertile
LAM

Ethnoepidemiology
Hormones
and
in

LEE Tak Shing
Dominic (Centre of Research and
Exhaled Breath Condensate (MD05351)
Promotion of Women's Health)
 HAINES Christopher John
CHEUNG Lai Ping
Wai
San
Fanny
Therapeutics)

KO

(Medicine
HAN Yibing

&
Christopher John



HAINES
CHAN Cheung
Ming*
HUI
Shu Cheong David (Medicine &
Therapeutics)

2005-06 3D Ultrasound Biometry of Pelvic Floor
PANESAR Nirmal

in Postpartum Women (MD05797)
LEUNG Ting Fan (Paediatrics)

 SAHOTA Daljit Singh
LAM Po Mui

Singh
(Chemical

Pathology)
LOK Hung Ingrid

YIP Shing
Kai Alexander
CHEUNG Lai Ping
2005-06 Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses
2005-06 Studies
of
Protein
Phosphatase
in Pre-Eclamptic Women (MD05891)
1
 WANG Chi Chiu
Inhibitor 11 Expression in Mice Testis,
Epididymis,
Spermatozoa
and
Its

LEUNG Tse
Ngong  ROGERS Michael Scott
Functional Pathways (MD05763)
309
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
2005-06 Identification
Proteins
of
in
Glycation
Gestational
Plasma
2004-05 Epigenetic Profiling of Cervical Cancer
Diabetes
Predisposed to Preeclampsia (MD05579)
in Hong Kong Women Using CpG Island
 WANG Chi Chiu
Microarray: A Pilot Study (MD04817)

POON Chuen
Wai (Medicine & Therapeutics)

TAM Wing Hung


LI Chi Yin
 WONG Yick Fu
Hung Tony
ROGERS Michael Scott
Expression
CHUNG Kwok
LO Yuk Ming Dennis
(Chemical Pathology)
Tak Hong*
2003-04 Gene


Profiling
of


CHEUNG
YU Mei Yung May*

LAU Winnie WY*
Endometrioid Endometrial Carcinoma in
Hong Kong Women and Correlation with
2005-06 A
Randomized,
Double-Blind,
Clinico-pathological Features (CU03427)
Placebo-Controlled Study on Treatment
 WONG
of
Yick
Fu
BIRRER,

Nocturia
with
Desmopressin
in
Michael J.*  CHEUNG Tak Hong 
Women (MD05325)
CHUNG
 YIP Shing Kai Alexander  CHEON
Kwok
Hung
GARDNER, Ginger J.*
Yung
(Anatomical
Tony

&

Cecilia*
YU Mei
Cellular
Pathology)
Faculty of Medicine
310
Dept of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
specifically tackled. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is
RESEARCH PROJECTS
a two-step procedure involving first, intravenous
infusion of a photosensitizer and then the application
The Safety and Efficacy of A Modified Regimen of
of low-energy diode laser to activate the drug. This is
Photodynamic Therapy with Verteporfin on
regarded as an innovative and relatively safe
Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy - A
procedure in ophthalmology in treating abnormal
Randomized Controlled Trial
choroidal neovascularization of various etiologies.
The application of PDT on CSC requires a higher
 CHAN Wai Man

LAM Shun Chiu Dennis
safety threshold, in which this can be enhanced in our

previous studies by a modified regimen with reduced
LAI Wai Kwan Wico#  LAI Yuk Yau Timothy
verteporfin infusion dosage of 3mg/ m2 and earlier
 1 July 2006
laser delivery at 10 minutes. Preliminary data from
 CUHK Departmental Funding
our pilot series have demonstrated encouraging
Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is an
clinical and angiographic responses in chronic CSC
exudative
macula,
with rapid subretinal fluid absorption in a month in
commonly affecting middle-aged adults. The patients
80% of cases, improving visual acuity, no recurrence
may present with disturbing visual symptoms such as
during
distorted images, color desaturation, or central black
electrophysiological response shortly after treatment.
spot. Most of the macular detachment will resolve
Our proposal is to further delineate the efficacy and
spontaneously after weeks or months. However,
safety of PDT on chronic CSC by a randomized
many patients may still have persistent symptoms
controlled trial of 1-year follow-up. We target 50
such as loss of contrast sensitivity, despite apparently
cases to answer the efficacy in achieving better visual
recovering of normal visual acuity. In addition, some
improvement and faster subretinal fluid absorption
(closer to 30%) may have recurrent attacks, and a
and visual improvement.
small proportion (5%) may develop a chronic disease
(MD06992)
retinal
detachment
of
the
the
follow-up
period,
and
safer
with atrophy and decompensation of the retinal
pigment epithelium and severe and irreversible visual
Adeno-associated
Viral
Vector-mediated
impairment. It is an ocular problem particularly
Transgene Expression and Gene Silencing in
common in Asian populations. In Hong Kong, with a
Visual System Repair
majority of Chinese people, about 300 chronic cases
occur per year. Laser and pharmacologic agents have
 CUI Qi
been tried but achieved only unsatisfactory results.
 26 February 2007
These treatments have not been shown to improve the
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
final visual outcome or the rate of recurrence. The
Grants)
lack of success of these treatments are not unexpected,
as the underlying pathophysiological problems which
In most area of the adult human central nervous
include choroidal abnormalities, vascular congestion
system
and hyperpermeability leakage have not been
spontaneous repair of fibre pathways after injury.
including
the
eye
there
is
minimal
This failure is attributable to the loss of affected
311
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
axons and neurons, lack of neurotrphic factor supply,
 7 June 2007
presence of axon growth inhibitory molecules Nogo,
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
oligodendrocyte-myelin glycoprotein (OMgp), and
glial scar formation at the injury site.
Grants)
In all
neuropathological situations it is important to
This study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of
minimise the loss of compromised neurons and at the
different doses of intravitreal bevacizumab in the
same time promote the regrowth of axons within
treatment
damaged pathway.
degeneration (AMD).
The visual system has unique
of
neovascular
age-related
macular
Bevacizumab is a drug
The eye
developed to bind to a chemical released by cells
and optic nerve are readily accessible, the retinal
known as Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
function
(VEGF).
advantages as a target for gene therapy.
can
be
assessed
using
quantitative,
Several studies have demonstrated that
non-invasive techniques, the extent of retinal
intravitreal bevacizumab appeared to be effective in
ganglion cell (RGC) survival and the amount of
improving the visual outcome in patients with CNV
axonal regrowth after injury can readily be
secondary to AMD or pathologic myopia. However,
quantified.
previous studies have used different dosages of
A technology currently receiving a great deal of
intravitreal bevacizumab ranging from 1mg to 2.5mg
attention involves the us of viral vectors to introduce
and therefore the optimal dosage remained uncertain.
genes into cells, providing a method for the long-term
The aim of this study is to evaluate the treatment
but local and targeted supply of relevant molecules to
response of patients to 1.25mg versus 2.5mg
compromised cells.
intravitreal bevacizumab in order to determine the
recognition
Gene silencing has also gained
recently
for
optimal dose for usage in patients with neovascular
counteracting
disease-causing gene, and the discoverers have been
AMD.
Patients will be given three monthly
awarded Nobel prize this year. In this study, we aim
intravitreal injections of bevacizumab and followed
to use adeno-associated viral vectors (AAV) to
for 6 months to look at the treatment response.
introduce both axon-growth promoting gene and axon
Changes in the aqueous levels of growth factors such
growth inhibitory molecule silencing genes into the
as PEDF and VEGF will also be determined.
eye in order to achieve enhanced axonal regeneration
(MD06825)
of injured retinal ganglion cell.
Examination of 3-Dimensional Retinal Nerve
(MD06737)
Fiber Layer Profile for Early Detection of
Glaucoma
Effects of Different Dosages of Intravitreal
Bevacizumab
Age-related
(Avastin)
Macular
for
Neovascular
Degeneration
:
 LEUNG Kai Shun
A

CHEUNG Yim Lui
PANG Chi Pui Calvin  LAM Shun Chiu Dennis
Randomized Controlled Trial
 30 June 2007
 LAI Yuk Yau Timothy
Dennis



LIU Tai Li David*
LAM Shun Chiu

 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
CHAN Wai Man
Grants)
PANG Chi Pui Calvin
Faculty of Medicine

312
Dept of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Glaucoma is characterized by progressive loss of
Shaheeda
retinal ganglion cells (RGC) with subsequent loss of
CHEUNG Yim Lui  LAM Shun Chiu Dennis
vision.
Early diagnosis is imperative to prevent
visual loss through early interventions.
The optic

RAO Srinivas Kamalakara

 1 July 2006
 CUHK Departmental Funding
disc and the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) are
important structural surrogates to evaluate the integrity
Corneal thickness measurement is important in
of RGC.
refractive
Using optical coherence tomography
surgery
and
assessing
the risk
of
(OCT), we have showed that measuring RNFL
development of glaucoma in patients with ocular
thickness is more sensitive than measuring the optic
hypertension. Accurate measurement of corneal
disc to detect glaucomatous damage. And yet, the
thickness is therefore of primary importance. The
current model of OCT is limited in measuring the
purpose of this study is to compare corneal thickness
RNFL only in a specific distance away from the optic
measurement by three different methods, namely
disc. Spatial relationship of RNFL profile around the
Ultrasound Pachymetry, Orbscan II and Optical
optic disc cannot be examined. This poses a major
Coherence Tomography (OCT) and to assess
problem in monitoring RNFL changes. The spectral
correlation and agreement of measurements by these
domain OCT is the latest OCT imaging technology
three methods.
recently introduced.
(MD05317)
of
data,
higher
Because of its rapid acquisition
resolution
and
sensitivity,
three-dimensional topographic profiles of the RNFL
Quality Control of Myocilin and Development of
can be analyzed in detailed with the instrument. The
Small
objective of this study is to examine the 3-dimensional
Glaucoma
Molecule
Chaperone
Therapy
for
topography of the RNFL in normal and glaucomatous
eyes and to evaluate the diagnostic sensitivity and
 PANG Chi Pui Calvin  LAM Shun Chiu Dennis
specificity of the 3-dimensional RNFL measures in

detecting early glaucomatous damage. The in vivo
Hin Fai  劉剛*
topography of the retinal nerve fiber layer has never
been examined.
Quantitative analysis of the
THAM Chee Yung Clement  CUI Qi  YAM
 1 August 2006
 CUHK Departmental Funding
3-dimensional RNFL profile could provide new
insights to the pathophysiology of glaucoma and serve
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is a major
as a new paradigm for early detection and monitoring
form of glaucoma and a leading cause of visual
progression.
defects and blindness. It is a progressive optic
(MD06345)
neuropathy characterized by obstructive aqueous
humor outflow and elevated intraocular pressure.
by
Mutation of the myocilin (MYOC) gene is associated
Ultrasound Pachmetry, Orbscan II and Optical
with juvenile and adult-onset POAG. More than 70
Coherence Tomography
glaucoma-causative MYOC mutations have been
Measurements
of
Corneal
Thickness
identified. Elevated intraocular pressure due to
 LI Yuen Mei Emmy
Arthur


reduced
CHENG Chak Kwan
LEUNG Kai Shun

aqueous
outflow
via
the
trabecular
meshwork is a major risk factor for glaucoma. The
MOHAMED
313
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
MYOC protein is a major component of trabecular
 1 March 2007
extracellular matrix and is involved in aqueous
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
outflow. Elevated MYOC expression is found in
Grants)
trabecular meshwork of patients with steroid-induced
glaucoma, typified with increased outflow resistance.
Limbal adult stem cells play an active role in corneal
However, the failed expression of MYOC, per se,
wound healing. They possess therapeutic potential for
seems insufficient to cause glaucoma, as homozygous
retinal or neural cell replacement due to their neural
MYOC knockout mice display normal eye function.
transdifferentiation capacity.
It is likely that mutant MYOC acquires a
identification marker is currently available rendering
gain-of-function
them difficult to isolate and study.
by
restricting
normal
MYOC
However, no definite
In most
secretion. A number of MYOC mutations disrupt the
laboratories, limbal stem cells can only be identified
folding capacity of the polypeptide to become a
after the use of a combination of protein markers.
functional protein. The aberrantly folded protein is
MicroRNAs have recently been implicated as key
recognized by the quality control in the endoplasmic
regulators of gene expression in different biological
reticulum. We have obtained evidence that the
processes, including cell growth, death, development
aggregate formation leads to secretion deficiency of
and differentiation. Alike protein markers, expression
MYOC, ultimately resulting in cell death. So far,
of stage-specific microRNAs have been shown to
experimental evidence for such trafficking problem is
involve in embryogenesis.
limited. We propose a comprehensive cellular and
investigate microRNA expression profile of limbal stem
molecular study of the regulatory quality control of
cells showing profound maintenance of self-renewal and
naturally occurring and glaucoma-causing MYOC
multipotency. Quiescent limbal and corneal basal cells
variants to gain a mechanistic insight on the
will be isolated from frozen sections of human cornea
pathogenesis of glaucoma. Pharmacological rescue of
by laser capture microdissection technique followed by
conformation-defective MYOC protein variants by
low molecular weight microRNA isolation.
utilizing the chaperoning activities of specific small
and enriched microRNAs will be analyzed by mirVana
molecules will be investigated for stabilizing a more
qRT-PCR miRNA Detection Kit (Ambion) and specific
native conformation of malfolded protein and
primer sets. Our study will isolate a subset of specific.
promoting its exit from the endoplasmic reticulum.
microRNAs which will operate key regulatory roles of
Results of this study will contribute to understanding
self-renewal and multipotency in limbal stem cells.
of
The identification of the associated genes will hold a
glaucoma
pathogenesis
and
devising
new
This work is aimed to
Purified
therapeutic intervention.
basis for further study looking for true limbal stem cell
(MD06794)
markers, which will also serve as potent molecular
markers for the undifferentiated adult stem cells in
MicroRNA Expression Profiling of Ocular Limbal
other tissues.
Stem Cells
(MD06468)
 PANG Chi Pui Calvin

YAM Hin Fai

Argon
CHOY
Laser
Peripheral
Iridoplasty
(ALPI)
Kwong Wai (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)  LAM
Versus Systemic Intraocular Pressure Lowering
Shun Chiu Dennis
Medications
Faculty of Medicine
314
Dept of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
As the Immediate Management for Acute
This procedure may work as effectively in acute
Phacomorphic Angle-closure (Phacomorphic
phacomorphic angle-closure.
Glaucoma)
The aim of our study is to compare the efficacy and
safety of argon laser peripheral iridoplasty (ALPI) to
 THAM Chee Yung Clement

systemic
LAM Shun Chiu
intraocular
pressure
(IOP)
lowering
Dennis  CHI Chung Chai  LEUNG Yu Lung 
medications in the immediate management of acute
YICK Wai Fong  KWONG Yuen Ying Yolanda
phacomorphic

LI Chi Hong Felix

LAI Shiu Ming Jimmy
angle-closure
by
a
prospective
randomized controlled study.

Forty
CHAN Jonathan Cheuk Hung  CHAN Hoi Yee
(40)
patients
with
acute
phacomorphic
angle-closure will be recruited for this study.
 14 July 2006
Patients will be randomized into one of the following
 CUHK Departmental Funding
groups :
Aute phacomorphic angle-closure (phacomorphic
Group 1 - patients will receive ALPI under topical
glaucoma) is type of angle-closure condition resulting
anesthesia.
from a mature, swollen cataract, which causes closure
Group 2 - patients will be given intravenous
of the drainage channels (the 'angle') in the eye and
acetazolamide as medical treatment. These patients
hence elevation of eye pressure (intraocular pressure,
will continue to take oral acetazolamide until the IOP
IOP).
Patients with this condition usually have
is normalized. If intraocular pressure is higher than
ocular pain and decreased vision. Treatment includes
60 mmHg at presentation, intravenous mannitol will
lowering the intraocular pressure with medications
also be administered.
and subsequent removal of the cause by cataract
For both groups of patients, the definitive treatment
extraction.
Time is important because persistent
with cataract extraction is performed within 72 hours.
high intraocular pressure can result in permanent
We will compare the clinical outcome of the two
closure of the angle as well as irreversible optic nerve
groups of patients.
damage.
IOP profile before and after treatment; return of
Medical treatment includes the use of systemic
corneal clarity; symptoms, particularly pain, nausea
carbonic anhydrase inhibitor and hyperosmolar agent,
& vomiting; visual acuity; corneal endothelial cell
which are well known to have many side effects.
count; evidence of optic nerve damage at presentation
Moreover, medical treatment may fail to effectively
and follow-up; final visual outcome; final angle
control the intraocular pressure.
status; visual field loss, complications of treatment.
Recently, argon
The outcome measures include
(MD06897)
laser peripheral iridoplasty (ALPI) is being used to
open up the drainage angle in acute primary
angle-closure (APAC) by applying a number of burns
Pharmacological Chaperone Therapy of Mutant
on the peripheral iris to contract the iris near the
Myocilin in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
angle. This will widen the angle (i.e. to open up the
drainage channels), thus lowering the intraocular
 YAM Hin Fai
pressure at a much shorter time, and allow the eye to

PANG Chi Pui Calvin

LAM
Shun Chiu Dennis  THAM Chee Yung Clement
become quiet before definitive treatment is performed.
 1 March 2007
315
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
Grants)
for more details of the following ongoing research
at the department:
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) with elevated
intraocular pressure is a leading cause of blindness
Edition
worldwide. Mutations of the myocilin gene account
for most of juvenile-onset POAG and 4% adult-onset
POAG.
Misfolded
secretion-incompetent
mutant
myocilin
intracellular
2005-06 Glaucoma Drainage Device with and
forms
without Adjunctive Intra-bleb Injection
aggregates,
of
leading to apoptotic cell death. We have recently
a
Shiu Ming Jimmy
LEUNG Yu Lung
myocilin, reduced their intracellular retention and
a
possibility
of
CHAN Hoi Yee
sodium
we
aim
to
perform
with
 CHAN Wai Man
Ho Emily
diffusibility and toxicity of sodium 4-phenylbutyrate

Our
LEE Yau Wing,

MOHAMED Shaheeda
LAI Yuk Yau Timothy
Chi Wai
result will form a basis for further animal study.


TSANG
LI Kai Wang Kenneth

LI Siu Hung  LIU Ta Li
Transgenic mice expressing POAG-causing mutant
myocilin will be established and tested for the
2005-06 Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of
efficacy of sodium 4-phenylbutyrate in correcting the
High-density Silicone Oil (Oxane HD) as
Its safety as well as
a Tamponade Agent in Macular Hole
tissue and cell permeable features will hold its
Related Retinal Detachment in Patients
potential as a topical drug for POAG patients.
with High Myopia (MD04819)
(MD06608)
Faculty of Medicine

LAI Wai Kwan Wico#  TANG Wai
pressure-associated POAG and to investigate the
disease-associated phenotypes.
LAM Shun Chiu
Vincent  LAM Shun Chiu Dennis 
intraocular
in various ocular tissues of young male rats.

Chorioretinopathy (MD04609)
4-phenylbutyrate on ten different myocilin mutants
associated
KWONG Yuen
Verteporfin on Acute Central Serous
a
comprehensive screening of the effect of sodium
frequently

Regimen of Photodynamic Therapy with
To demonstrate its application as a topical medication
patients,
THAM Chee
Safety and Efficacy of A Modified
on misfolded myocilin for the treatment of POAG.
POAG
LAI
2005-06 A Randomized Controlled Trial on the
4-phenylbutyrate as the first specific drug targeting
for


Dennis
This highly
using
Trial
Ying Yolanda  LI Chi Hong Felix 
The treatment released the
ER stress and significantly reduced the apoptosis of
suggests
A
Yung Clement  LEUNG Yu Lung 
POAG-causing C245Y, G364V, P370L and Y437H
cells expressing mutant myocilin.
Controlled
 CHAN Jonathan Cheuk Hung
cell-permeable
small-molecule chemical chaperone stabilized severe,
restored their secretion.
Acetonide.
(MD04453)
treatment on mutant myocilins in a cell culture model.
4-phenylbutyrate,
Triamcinolone
Randomized
demonstrated a novel pharmacological chaperone
Sodium
Title/Investigators
316
Dept of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
 CHEUNG Tze On Benson
Yin Fun

LAI Yuk Yau Timothy
LAI Wai Kwan Wico#
Tak Hung

Kai Shun

Christopher

LAM Shun Chiu Dennis
2005-06 Prospective


LEUNG
LAU Hoi Shan Flora
YIP Wai Kuen
WONG
TSANG Chi Wai

 FAN Shu Ping Dorothy
YUEN


YU Bing On

CHEUNG Yan Yan
(Centre for Clinical Trials)
Randomized
Study
of
2005-06 Screening of Visual Defects in Preschool
Silicone Stent Intubation in Endoscopic
Children (MD05827)
Dacryocysto-Rhinostomy for Acquired
 FAN Shu Ping Dorothy
LAM

Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction - SEND
Shun Chiu Dennis
Study (MD05974)
Yan (Centre for Clinical Trials)
 CHONG Kam Lung
Chiu Dennis




CHEUNG Yan
LAM Shun
CHAN Wai Man
CHAN Ding Nai

2005-06 The

Use
of
Multifocal
Electroretinography for the Detection and
WONG Wing
Monitoring
Cheong
of
Drug-Related
Retinal
Toxicity (MD04388)
2005-06 Tear
Lake
Evaluation
by
 LAI Yuk Yau Timothy  LAM Shun
Anterior
Segment Optical Coherence Tomography
Chiu Dennis
(ASOCT) in Patients with Acquired
Ricky  LI Haitao
Nasolacrimal
Obstruction

LAI Yiu Kwong
(NLO)
(MD05756)
2002-03 A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Study to
 CHONG Kam Lung
Chiu Dennis



Intravitreal Fluocinolone Acetonide (0.5
WONG Wing
or 2 mg) Implants in Patients with
WAT Sze Kee
CHEUNG Yim Lui

Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of an
LAM Shun
YUEN Kwok Lai

Clinically Significant Diabetic Macular
CHENG Chak Kwan Arthur

Edema (MD02973)
Cheong

 LAM Shun Chiu Dennis
CHAN Wai Man

CHAN
Wai Man  CHAN Kar Mun Carmen
2005-06 Prevention of Myopia Development in
Kindergarten
Children
by

Early
WONG Tak Hung
Kenneth

Shu Ping Dorothy
 FAN Shu Ping Dorothy
CHONG Kam Lung
Shun Chiu Dennis

LAM
LI Kai Wang
TSANG Chi Wai
Correction of Astigmatism (CU05498)




FAN
LI Siu Hung


MOHAMED
Shaheeda  TANG Wai Ho Emily
YU Bing On
Christopher*  FAN Hoi  T Wong*
2003-04 A Prospective Randomized Comparative
Study on the Efficacy and Safety of Early
2005-06 Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness and
Macular Thickness in Children with
Cataract
Anisometropic Amblyopia or Refractive
Development of Chronic Angle-Closure
Error (MD05462)
Glaucoma (CACG) after Aborting Acute
317
Removal
in
Preventing
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Attack
of
Primary
Angle-Closure
Glaucoma (PACG) (CU03350)
2005-06 Clinical Satisfaction Assessment Acrysof
 LAM Shun Chiu Dennis
Yee Hang Thomas

ReSTOR IOL (MD05643)
CHIU

 LAM Tsze Ho Philip
LAI Shiu Ming
Jimmy  LEUNG Yu Lung  THAM
Srinivas Kamalakara
Chee Yung Clement
Chiu Dennis

YEUNG Yat
Ming Barry  YICK Wai Fong
Arthur




RAO
LAM Shun

CHENG Chak Kwan
CHOW Wing See Vanissa
HO Chuen Kwong Thomas
2005-06 A Six-Month, Phase 3, Multicenter,
Masked, Randomized, Sham-Controlled
Trial
(with
Six-Month
2005-06 A
Open-label
Prospective,
Randomized
Control
Study Examining the Efficacy, Safety
Extension) to Assess the Safety and
and
Efficacy
350μg
Rimexolone 1% Versus Prednisolone
Dexamethasone Posterior Segment Drug
Acetate 1% Ophthalmic Solution in the
Delivery
Treatment of Severe Ocular Allergy in
of
700μg
System
and
(DEX
PS
DDS)
Ocular
Hypertensive
Applicator System in the Treatment of
Children (MD05596)
Patients with Macular Edema Following
 LAW Wai Kee
Central
Retinal
Branch
Vein
Retinal
Occlusion
Vein
or
2005-06 Evaluation of Optic Nerve Morphology,
Ping Dorothy

FAN Shu
Macular Thickness and Retinal Nerve
LAI Wai Kwan
Fiber Layer Thickness in Myopia Using


CHONG Kam Lung
Yau Wing, Vincent
Wai
LAM Shun Chiu
Occlusion
 LAM Shun Chiu Dennis

of
Dennis
(MD05920)
Wico#

Effect


Optical
LEE
Tomography
(MD05854)
TSANG Chi
MOHAMED Shaheeda
Coherence
 LEUNG Kai Shun

WONG Lee
Lung


LEUNG Yu
YICK Wai Fong
Hong Felix


LI Chi
KWONG Yuen Ying
2005-06 Twelve-Week, Double-Masked, Parallel
Yolanda
Group, Study of Travoprost 0.004%
Clement
Compared to Timolol 0.5% in Patients
MOHAMED
with Open-Angle Glaucoma or Ocular
Srinivas Kamalakara

Hypertension (MS-06-02) (MD05919)
Chak Kwan Arthur
LAM Shun
 LAM Shun Chiu Dennis
Chiu Dennis
Chee Yung Clement


THAM
THAM Chee Yung


LI Yuen Mei Emmy
Shaheeda




RAO
CHENG
LEUNG King Sai
(Faculty Office of Medicine)
LEUNG Kai
Shun  MOHAMED Shaheeda  HO
Chuen Kwong Thomas
Mei Emmy
Yolanda



2005-06 Diagnostic Imaging Assessment in the
LI Yuen
Evaluation
KWONG Yuen Ying
LI Chi Hong Felix

Glaucomatous
Neuropathy (MD05567)
CHI
Chung Chai  LEUNG Yu Lung
Faculty of Medicine
of
318
Optic
Dept of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
 LEUNG Kai Shun
LEUNG King

Sai (Faculty Office of Medicine)
Thomas
Yolanda

Tear
Components
between Normal Patients and Patients
HO Chuen Kwong
with Blepharitis, Ocular Allergies and
KWONG Yuen Ying
Dry Eyes Syndrome Using Liquid/Gas


of
MOHAMED
LI Yuen Mei Emmy
Shaheeda
2005-06 Comparison


Chromatography
THAM Chee Yung
Mass
Clement  LAM Shun Chiu Dennis 
Spectrophotometry (LCMS/GCMS) and
LI Chi Hong Felix
ELISA (MD04718)
LEUNG Yu

 PONG Chiu Fai
Lung  YICK Wai Fong
Dennis
2005-06 Evalucation of Bleb Morphology with
Anterior
Segment
Tomography
and
Optical
Coherent
Corneal
Confocal

2004-05 A
Microscopy (MD05722)
 LEUNG Kai Shun

LAM Shun Chiu
RAO Srinivas Kamalakara

PANG Chi Pui Calvin
Multi-Centered
Controlled
Randomized
Interventional
Trial
to
KWONG Yuen
Compare Cataract Extraction Alone by
Ying Yolanda  LI Chi Hong Felix 
Phacoemulsification versus Combined
LEUNG Yu Lung  YICK Wai Fong
Phaco-Trabeculectomy in the Treatment
THAM Chee Yung Clement
of Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma


CHEUNG Yim Lui

(CACG)
LAM Shun

with
Coexisting
Cataract
(MD04706)
Chiu Dennis
2005-06 Analysis of Clinical Profiles of Chinese
 THAM Chee Yung Clement

CHAN Jonathan Cheuk Hung

Patients with Normal Tension Glaucoma
CHIU Yee Hang Thomas  LAI Shiu
(MD05531)
Ming Jimmy
 LEUNG Yu Lung  LAM Shun Chiu
Dennis
Dennis

CHI Chung Chai
Shiu Ming Jimmy
Ming Barry
Clement





LAM Shun Chiu
LAM Sze Wing
Yu Lung
LAI



YICK Wai
CHIU Yee Hang Thomas

KWONG
2005-06 A Multicentered Randomized Controlled
LI Chi Hong
Yuen
Interventional Trial to Compare Lens
Ying
Extraction Alone by Phacoemulsification
versus
Trabeculectomy
2005-06 Identification of Genes for Primary Open
Adjunctive
Angle Glaucoma (MD05621)
Treatment
of
Chronic
Angle-closure
 PANG Chi Pui Calvin
Chee Yung Clement

LEUNG
Fong
Yolanda  LEUNG Kai Shun
Shun

POON Shuet Yan
SHEN Yu Sunny#
YEUNG Yat
THAM Chee Yung
YICK Wai Fong
Felix





THAM
Chemotherapy)
in
(+/the
Medically-uncontrolled
Glaucoma
(CACG) without Visually Significant
LEUNG Kai
FAN Shu Ping Dorothy
Alone
Cataract (MD04442)

LAM Shun Chiu Dennis
319
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
 THAM Chee Yung Clement
Chung Chai

Lung
CHI

CHAN Hoi Yee
CHAN Jonathan Cheuk Hung

CHI Chung Chai

YEUNG
Yat Ming Barry


2005-06 A
KWONG Yuen Ying Yolanda  LAI
Double-Masked,
and
Parallel-Group,
Shiu Ming Jimmy  LAM Shun Chiu
Efficacy
Safety
Dennis  LEUNG Yu Lung  LI Chi
Brinzolamide
Hong Felix  YICK Wai Fong
Therapy to Travoprost 0.004% in Patients
1.0%
Study
as
of
Adjunctive
with Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
(MS-06-01) (MD05992)
2005-06 Phacoemulsification-trabeculectomy with
 THAM Chee Yung Clement
in Intra-bleb Injection of Triamcinolone

LAM
Acetonide Versus Phaco-trabeculectomy
Shun Chiu Dennis
with Mitomycin C in Patients with
Shun  MOHAMED Shaheeda  HO
Co-existing Cataract and Glaucoma and
Chuen Kwong Thomas
Risk Factors for Filtration Failure - A
Mei Emmy
Randomized
Yolanda
Controlled
Trial
(MD04529)
Shun Chiu Dennis



Randomised
Yuen
Density
Trial
to
Failed Trabeculectomy in Glaucoma
Patients (MD05700)
 THAM Chee Yung Clement
Yolanda

KWONG


LAM
YICK Wai
Yuen
Ying
CHIU Yee Hang Thomas
LI Chi Hong Felix


CHI

Function
LEUNG Kai Shun


LEUNG Yu
320


RAO
MOHAMED
CHEUNG Yim Lui
LAM Shun Chiu Dennis
vs Repeat Trabeculectomy in Managing

Visual
Srinivas Kamalakara
Controlled
Shun Chiu Dennis
and
CHENG Chak Kwan Arthur

Needle Revision of Trabeculectomy Bleb
Faculty of Medicine
LI Chi Hong Felix
 WONG Lee
Ying
Compare the Clinical Outcomes of

KWONG Yuen Ying
Assessment (MD05589)
CHAN Jonathan Cheuk
LI Chi Hong Felix

Lens
YICK
Shaheeda
Fong
LI Yuen
2005-06 Quantitative Measurement of Cataractous
CHAN Hoi Yee
2005-06 A

LAM
LAI Shiu Ming
KWONG

Yolanda

LEUNG Yu Lung

Wai Fong
Hung
LEUNG Kai
Chung Chai
 THAM Chee Yung Clement
Jimmy




Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
and its ability to monitor supination torque in real
RESEARCH PROJECTS
time will be verified by biomechanics test.
The
developed sensing system provides real-time ankle
Development of an In-Shoe Sensor System for
torque measurement during running for further sprain
Real-Time Ankle Supination Torque
risk identification, and helps the decision to trigger
corrective motion while sprain occurs in the final
 CHAN Kai Ming

sprain-free sports shoe.
HONG Youlian (Sports
(MD06966)
Science & Physical Education)  HUI Kin Chuen
(Mechanical and Automation Engineering)
Wen
Jung
Engineering)
(Mechanical

and

LI
The Effect of Functional Inserts with Different
Automation
LUI Po Yee Pauline

Posting Angles on Impact Force, Plantar Pressure
KHOO
Distribution and Foot Kinematics during Walking
Lawrence*
and Jogging
 1 September 2006
 Dr Kong Footcare Ltd  Innovation and
 CHAN Kai Ming
Technology Support Programme, ITF,

FUNG Kwai Yau
Po Yee Pauline
Ankle sprain is the most common sports injury.
 15 October 2006
Repeated
 Dr Kong Footcare Ltd
causes
ankle
YUNG
Shu Hang Patrick  FONG Tik-Pui Daniel  LUI
Innovation & Technology Commission
injury

instability,
proprioceptive and functional impairment, medical
cost and economic loss. We propose to develop an
This study investigates the effect of functional inserts
innovative intelligent sprain-free shoe to prevent
with different posting angles on impact force, plantar
ankle sprain during running. The project consists of
pressure distribution and foot kinematics during
three parts: (1) Sensing; (2) Identification; and (3)
walking and jogging.
Correction. This proposal will concentrate on the
recruited and divided into 3 groups according to their
first part and will develop an in-shoe wireless sensor
degree of pronation (Group A: 6 degree and above;
system which can detect external forces and ankle
Group B: 4-6 degree; Group C: 0-4 degree).
motion, and estimate ankle supination torque during
subject will perform heel-toe walking at 1.30 m/s in
running.
walking shoes, and jogging at 1.66 m/s in jogging
Ankle torques, plantar pressure and shoe surface
shoes on a 10-meter walkway.
kinematics data will be obtained during running and
conditions with inserts of four posting angles (X: flat,
simulated sprain motion in 10 human subjects using
A: 6 degrees, B: 4 degrees, C: 0 degrees) will be
sports biomechanics analysis techniques.
performed.
Ankle
Ninety subjects will be
Each
Barefoot and shod
A pressure mat will be placed on top of
torque estimation models will be constructed to
a force plate in the middle of the walkway.
determine the representative locations to install
Kinematics and ground reaction force will be
individual pressure and motion sensor. Then a pair
obtained by motion capture system and force plate at
of testing sports shoe with embedded sensors that
600 Hz. Ten valid trials (5 for each foot) with whole
supports wireless data transfer will be manufactured
foot stepping within the mat region will be recorded
in each of the conditions.
321
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
Impact force and pressure distribution data will be
improve
obtained
environment.
by
pressure
mat.
Ankle
joint
both
the
biological
Bone
and
cement
mechanical
reduces
the
inversion/eversion data will be obtained by the
micro-motion (“micro-interlocking”) and provides an
motion
be
osteoconductive environment bridging the host bone
time-normalized from foot strike to take off as 0% to
and grafted tendon, suppress fibrous tissue formation,
100% stance, and will be extracted at every 5%
whereas MSC provides a cell source to induce more
stance. For impact force, the peak value and its time
bone formation.
occurrence will be retrieved. Plantar pressure will
synergistic improvement in healing and mechanical
be evaluated in ten regions. The change of impact
strength of the tendon inside bone tunnel complex.
force and plantar pressure will also be evaluated.
Bilateral ACL reconstruction with free hamstring
Ankle inversion/eversion limit and range will be
tendon grafts will be performed with application of
determined.
either calcium phosphate bone cement or bone
(MD06388)
cement and MSC into tendon-bone tunnel interface.
analysis
system.
Data
will
We expect that there will be
The contralateral limb will serve as control. At 2, 6
Augmentation of Tendon Graft Healing within
and 12 weeks after operation, the biological events at
Bone Tunnel Using In-Situ Setting, Calcium
the grafted tendon-bone tunnel interface will be
Phosphate
examined by general histology.
Bone
Cement
Complement
with
Bone formation
and remodeling at the interfacial area and new
Autologous Mesenchymal Stem Cells
bone/cement volume ratio will be assessed by
histomorphometry and µCT.
 CHAN Kai Ming  WONG Wan Nar Margaret 
The strength of
QIN Ling  LEE Kwong Man Simon (Lee Hysan
tendon-bone tunnel complex will be evaluated by
Clinical Research Laboratories)
loading to failure via pull-out (tensile) testing.

LUI Po Yee
(CU06497)
Pauline
 1 January 2007
Joint
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Universities
Sports
Medicine
and
Rehabilitation Centre
Many surgical reconstructions require passing an
autograft tendon through a bone tunnel. The site of
 CHAN Kai Ming  CHAN Chetwyn*
attachment of grafted tendon to bone is the weak link
 1 January 2007
in the early tendon-bone tunnel healing and is critical
 Restructuring and Collaboration Fund (RCF) for
to the stability of the bone-tendon junction.
2005-06
Slippage and micro-motion (both longitudinal and
saggittal)
between
tendon
and
bone
The
which
Centre
supported
by
RCF
focuses
on
compromises healing and insufficient oteogenic cells
UGC-funded undergraduate teaching and research
for bone formation are possible causes of poor
postgraduate program. It is dedicated to equipping
healing. We hypothesized that application of in-situ
undergraduate
setting
and
knowledge in the realms of sports medicine and
autologous mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) into the
rehabilitation in the management of sports injuries
interface gap between tendon and bone tunnel can
from prevention to rehabilitation, with sufficient
calcium
phosphate
Faculty of Medicine
bone
cement
322
and
postgraduate
students
with
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
clinical exposure and cross-disciplinary training to
AIS girls is not only a matter of bone mineral status
meet the demand for well-qualified sports health
but also a problem in bone quality which would be an
professionals in the Asia-Pacific region and to train
important prognostic factor for the curve progression.
research postgraduate students in researching the
In the present study, we will investigate the systemic
sciences of sports medicine and rehabilitation.
problem of bone formation during the peri-pubertal
(MD06906)
growth of AIS girls compared with age-matched
controls in term of areal BMD of hips, volumetric
A Bone Quality-Based New Prognostic Factor in
BMD of cortical bone, and trabecular bone micro-
Predicting Curve Progression in Adolescent
-architectural parameters. These parameters will be
Idiopathic Scoliosis
measured by duel-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA)
at the bilateral hips, peripheral quantitative computed
LEE
tomography (pQCT) at the trabecular bone and
Kwong Man Simon (Lee Hysan Clinical
cortical bone dominant region of the radius and by
Research Laboratories)  YEUNG Hiu Yan
the quantitative ultrasound (QUS) assessment at the
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack

QIN Ling

calcaneum.
 1 January 2007
The BMD measurement of hip by DXA,
the QUS parameters, and the cortical bone BMD will
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
be used as a stand-alone parameter and also
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a complex
combined with other commonly accepted prognostic
three-dimensional deformity of the spine occurring
factor in AIS to generate a new and bone-quality
commonly in girls at the peripubertal period between
specific prognostic model for better prediction of
10-16 years of age.
curve progression in AIS.
The prevalence of AIS in Hong
Kong is high at nearly 4%. The current treatment of
The clinical significance of the present study is to
AIS is unsatisfactory since the etiopathogenesis are
provide for the first time a more comprehensive
still not clear and precise quantitative prognostic
understanding of the problem of both osteopenia and
factors for predicting curve progression at the early
quality of bone in AIS girls and its link to the
stage of deformity is still lacking.
progression
Results of our
of
scoliosis.
Further
systematic
previous RGC supported studies have revealed the
research into the etiopathogenesis of AIS could lead
presence of generalized osteopenia in 36-38% of AIS
to new bone quality based novel approaches in the
subjects.
monitoring, prognostication and more evidence based
bone
Taller, longer arm span, and abnormal
turnover
were
also
found.
treatment of AIS
These
(CU06498)
characteristics clearly pointed to an abnormality in
bone growth and bone mineralization in AIS
manifested
both
in
the
abnormal
peripheral
An International Effort to Fine Map the IS Gene
anthropometric measurements and bone mineral
density (BMD).
in a Critical Region on Chromosome 9q31-q34
Since mechanical stability of the
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
bone is better determined by bone quality than its
quantity
(i.e.
BMD)
and
the
AIS
is

TANG Leung Sang
Nelson (Chemical Pathology)
a

Miller, Nancy
Hadley*
three-dimensional structural deformity of the spine,
we hypothesize that the systemic problem of bone in
323
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
 AO Research Grant
 1 January 2007
 Cotrel Fondation Grant
The stem cell therapy using technology of tissue
Idiopathic scoliosis (IS) is a complex genetic disorder
engineering is applied in spinal fusion research. In
potentially
our
resulting
from
multiple
genetic
previous
study,
bone
marrow
derived
interactions and variations. In order to elucidate the
mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were isolated and
genes responsible for this disorder, our laboratory has
expanded in number ex vivo. The differentiation of
pursued
MSCs was directed to osteogenic cells in the
a
systematic
approach
of
family
identification, collection of genomic DNA from
presence of osteogenic medium.
blood samples, a genome-wide scan of a large sample
cells were seeded on tricalcium phosphate ceramics.
population, followed by linkage analysis and fine
The cell-ceramics composite was implanted in
mapping with the association of specific genomic loci
well-established rabbit PSF model.
with the observed phenotype.
These results include
that the cells-ceramics composite could enhance
an area on chromosome 9, a region of 25 Mb (109
spinal fusion with decortication approach but not
Mb to 134 Mb) including greater than 280 genes.
under un-decortication approach.
This proposal is directed to the refinement of this
treatment is required to improve stem cell therapy
locus through two complementary approaches at two
after operation.
centers utilizing single nucleotide polymorphisms
ultrasound (LIPUS) is reported to enhance fracture
(SNPs), association studies, the Haplotype map
healing, non-union and distraction osteogenesis. In
combined with statistical analyses. Both family and
this
population linkage disequilibrium (LD) information
micromechanical stimulation is applied on ex-vivo
will be incorporated into the study design. The goal
and/or in-vivo stages in rabbit PSF model implanted
of this work is to define a much higher resolution
with tissue engineered composite.
linkage map for FIS with a marked reduction in the
the project are 1) to investigate the effect of LIPUS
number of putative genes.
on decorticated posterior spinal fusion implanted with
(MD06463)
tissue engineered osteogenic cell-calcium phosphate
study,
The osteogenic
Result showed
Thus additional
Recently, low intensity pulsed
LIPUS
which
is
provided
The objectives of
ceramic composite; 2) to study the effective timing of
Ultrasonic Therapy on Tissue Engineered Stem
LIPUS treatment for enhancing posterior spinal
Cell-Bioceramics Composite in Posterior Spinal
fusion; and 3) to explore the possibility of
Fusion
undecortication approach in posterior spinal fusion
surgery by application of LIPUS.
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
HU Yun Yu*
Simon

(Lee
Laboratories)


QIN Ling

The outcome of this study will shed light on our
LEE Kwong Man
knowledge of engineered stem cells in enhancing
LEUNG Kwok Sui

Research
bone fusion of PSF, micromechanical stimulation of
CHAN Chun Wai (Lee Hysan
bone formation and the role of decortication. It will
Hysan
Clinical
Clinical Research Laboratories)

eliminate surgical procedure of autograft collection
YIP Raymond
and decortication and so as to reduce blood loss and
Churk Lun
shorten operation duration.
 2 January 2007
Faculty of Medicine
324
It will provide
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
unlimited supply of bone substitute and reduce the
development of a new diagnostic/prognostic strategy
associated complications at the donor site.
for AIS severity.
(MD06901)
(MD06571)
Melatonin Signaling Pathway Malfunction in
The Use of Antioxidants to Reduce Tendon
Osteoblasts of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Adhesion
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
 HUNG Leung Kim
NG Tzi Bun

(Biochemistry (Medicine))

Simon
Clinical
(Lee
Hysan

CHAN Kai Ming
WONG Wan Nar Margaret
LEE Kwong Man
Research
Bruma
Laboratories)  YEUNG Hiu Yan
(Lee
Hysan


FU Sai Chuen
Clinical
Research
Laboratories)
 1 June 2007
 1 January 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Grants)
Adhesion formation is a frequent complication of
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a complex
tendon injury repair, especially in the local Chinese
spinal deformity affecting mainly girls during their
population who received surgical operation in hands.
peripubertal period.
The 4% prevalence of AIS in
The postoperative outcome of hand flexor tendon
Hong Kong is relatively high compared with other
repair remains limited by tendon adhesions that
countries.
prevent normal range of motion, and hand dexterity
The current treatment of AIS is
unsatisfactory because its etiopathogenesis is still
will
unknown and precise prognostic factors for curve
overwhelming inflammatory response has long been
progression
previous
considered a cause of tendon adhesion, in which
RGC-supported studies have revealed the presence of
epitenon cells are activated to mediate an excessive
generalized osteopenia in 36-38% of AIS subjects.
fibrotic response.
They clearly point to an abnormality in ossification of
include the use of anti-fibrotic drugs, anti-adhesive
AIS. Meanwhile, we have shown that the melatonin
membranes, biophysical intervention and second
receptor gene is associated with AIS.
surgical operation.
are
lacking.
Our
Others
be
largely
affected.
Hemorrhage
and
Potential treatment strategies
But tendon adhesion still
showed dysfunction in the melatonin signaling
presents a major clinical problem in hand surgery.
pathway.
Oxidative
Hence,
we
hypothesize
that
stress
is
inevitably
involved
in
malfunctioning of the melatonin signaling pathway
inflammatory responses as well as tissues damages
may be systemic and affects bone formation of AIS
and haemorrhage.
girls during puberty.
This study aims to depict the
(ROS) generated during oxidative stress are able to
changes of the melatonin receptor in AIS and the
activate fibrotic response. It is possible that tendon
cellular responses of osteoblasts under the influence
adhesion is caused by ROS produced in intra- and
of melatonin.
The clinical significance of the
post-operative inflammation and haemorrhage, thus
present study is to provide further understanding of
antioxidants will have a great potential to be reduce
the
the extent of tendon adhesion.
melatonin
signaling
pathway
in
the
etiopathogenesis of AIS, and to shed light on the
The reactive oxygen species
In the present study,
we propose to investigate the roles of oxidative stress
325
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
in epitenon cells and the formation of tendon
International
adhesion.
High-Frequency Vibration Therapy for Training
Then we will explore the potentials to use
antioxidants to reduce tendon adhesion.
Workshop
on
Low-Magnitude,
Musculoskeletal Professionals
(CU06500)
 LEUNG Kwok Sui

CHEUNG Wing Hoi

SZE Pan Ching  NG Wai Kin
Post-menopausal Women Walk towards a Healthy
Life
 1 July 2006
 Applicant's contribution  Asian Association for
 LEUNG Kwok Sui

SZE Pan Ching

LAU
Dynamic Osteosynthesis  Professional Services
Yuen Wah Josephine*
Development Assistance Scheme, Commerce,
 1 May 2006
Industry and Technology Bureau, HKSAR Govt
 Health Care and Promotion Fund
This Project aim to introduce the concept and
As women approach menopause stage, they will face
importance
lots of changes in their lives, such as osteoporosis,
vibration
decrease in physical performance and emotional
musculoskeletal
disturbance. A program is specifically designed for
neuro-muscular coordination, circulation of lower
this group of women to promote bone health and
limb arid bone quality for medical doctors, vibration
physical
their
therapy scientists, mechanical engineers, occupational
of
therapists and related paramedical professionals in
osteoporosis and reduce number of osteoporosis. It
Hong Kong, Mainland China, and the Asia-Pacific
includes an educational carnival for improving bone
region.
health and nutritional advice, with interactive games
Moreover, this workshop can enhance the professional
in booths, with brochures prescription, weekly Bone
standard and update the latest knowledge of related
health ten-combos classes taught by Tai Chi masters
medical professionals on vibration therapy by
and self-help groups are established to monitor the
inviting famous researchers and speakers in this field,
progress of balance exercise training. By increasing
thus promoting the high quality healthcare service in
their awareness towards healthy menopause and
Hong Kong. The workshop also provides guidance
continued exercise training, 3 promotional drama
to participants who plan to apply vibration therapy
performances
for
fitness
awareness
in
menopause,
towards
preventive
are
shown
to
the
increase
measures
public
with
of
low-magnitude,
therapy
enhancing
on
functions
high-frequency
enhancing
and
musculoskeletal
various
diseases,
functions
e.g.
and
de-briefing sessions held by doctors after the shows.
preventing osteoporosis and fractures in elderly
It is hoped that rate of osteoporosis and degenerative
population in Hong Kong.
changes can be reduced among post-menopausal
This Project can provide a platform for medical and
women, and their family members in Women’s clubs
paramedical professionals in Hong Kong and
can be benefited.
overseas experts to share experience, exchange
(MD05521)
scientific information in using vibration therapy and
discuss for further research and development in
related field
Faculty of Medicine
326
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
Finally, this project can consolidate our international
Application of High-Frequency, Low-Magnitude
reputation in the related fields and leading role in
Vibration Therapy on the Healing of Normal and
Asia-Pacific region, especially in using vibration
Osteoporotic Femoral Fracture - An Experimental
therapy for preventing osteoporosis and related
Study Using Rat Model
fractures and improving functional outcomes of the
elderly.
 LEUNG Kwok Sui
(MD06972)
Wing Hoi
Hysan


QIN Ling

CHEUNG
LEE Kwong Man Simon (Lee
Clinical
Research
Laboratories)

LEUNG Lai Kwok (Biochemistry (Science))
Effect of Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound on
Fracture Healing at Different Angles
 1 October 2006
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
 LEUNG Kwok Sui

QIN Ling

CHEUNG
Wing Hoi
Fracture is a major medical challenge with increasing
aged population.
 1 August 2006
Fracture patients undergoing
surgery usually suffer from severe pain, particularly
 Smith & Nephew UK Ltd
patients with hip fracture. This will cause reduced
Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) has been
mobility
reported to increase the bone mineral density and
stimulation is a critical factor to promote healing.
accelerate fracture healing with 20-minute treatment
Therefore, the period of bed occupancy for fracture
every day. Several animal and clinical studies have
cases is rather long. There is a pressing need to
proven its beneficial effects on fracture healing.
explore a method to accelerate fracture healing,
Our previous clinical study on complex fracture also
especially for osteoporotic fracture repair where the
showed encouraging results by shortening 30% of
patients are old and fragile.
healing time.
With its simple, convenient and
Our previous in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies
non-invasive characteristics, LIPUS may potentially
have demonstrated that cyclic mechanical stimulation
become a routine treatment for fracture healing
was beneficial for bone formation.
clinically.
also showed cyclic compressive loadings provided by
Most recent studies indicated that LIPUS has
an actuator-driven fixator enhanced callus formation
generated shearing effect at different angles, which
in
may help to further accelerate the fracture healing.
vibration therapy is characterized with systemic 45Hz
In the present proposal, with the support from Smith
vibrational signals with subjects standing on the
& Nephew Inc, we would like to testify this
platform for 20 min/day. This will be a promising
phenomenon.
The objective of this study is to
biophysical method for accelerating fracture repair as
investigate the effects of LIPUS on fracture healing at
it has been proven to be effective in increasing bone
different angles using our established rat femoral
mineral density and blood flow, and currently also
fracture model.
being used for treatment of osteoporosis.
(MD06982)
transmissibility up to spine has also been confirmed.
and
fractures.
slow
recovery
High-frequency,
as
mechanical
Another study
low-magnitude
Signal
In the present study, we aim at applying vibration
therapy on our established femoral fracture rat model
327
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
with intramedullary nail to investigate its effect to
and caring of fragility fractures and it is the most
accelerate fracture healing.
Our hypothesis is that
effective way to achieve better treatment outcome
vibration therapy can provide mechanical stimulation
and prevention of subsequent fractures. Department
on bone and enhance circulation to accelerate
of Orthopaedics and Traumatology of The Chinese
fracture healing in both normal and osteoporotic
University of Hong Kong is the pioneer institution to
bones.
The healing status of fractured rats treated
adopt this approach to provide services to patients
with vibration therapy will be monitored in terms of
with fragility fractures in Asia Pacific region (Lam et
blood
radiography,
al. Annual congress of Hong Kong Orthopaedics
densitometry, histology and biomechanics compared
Association, 2005). Our experience can be shared
with the control. Normal and osteoporotic fracture
with other expertise through the symposium, and
healing responding to vibration therapy will also be
hence the leading post of Hong Kong in high medical
compared to investigate their different biological
standard can be consolidated.
responses to cyclic loading.
Aims of this project are:
(CU06502)
1) To introduce the new concept in comprehensive
flow
in
femoral
artery,
caring and management of patients with fragility
in
fractures in enhancing treatment outcomes and
Comprehensive Management of Patients with
avoiding recurrent fractures for Asia Pacific and
Fragility Fracture – from Hospital to Community
overseas medical, healthcare and social work
Program
of
Training
Professionals
professionals
 LEUNG Kwok Sui

CHAN Tan Jessica

through
an
international
symposium.
SZE
2) To update the latest knowledge in management
Pan Ching  NG Wai Kin  CHEUNG Wing Hoi
of fragility fractures for related professionals by
 1 May 2007
inviting famous speakers in this field in order to
 Contribution from Applicant  Professional
enhance participants’ medical standard, thus
Services Development Assistance Scheme,
promoting our high quality healthcare service in
Commerce, Industry and Technology Bureau,
Hong Kong.
HKSAR Govt
3) To
propose
a
consensus
workflow
in
Fragility fractures are the forth major cause of
management of fragility fractures for related
hospitalization among elderly in Hong Kong.
The
professionals in order to standardize and advance
associated medical expenditure is also as high as 2
the medical and social welfare services for
billion each year in Hong Kong.
patients with fragility fractures in Hong Kong.
Patients with
(MD06372)
fragility fracture have double the risk of suffering
subsequent fractures.
With increasing aging
population, this issue will become very important and
Validation of a Fall Risk Screening Test for
attract professionals’ attention worldwide.
Community-dwelling Elderly
A
multidisciplinary approach involving orthopaedic
 LEUNG Kwok Sui
surgeons, geriatricians, allied health professionals
CHEUNG Wing Hoi
SZE Pan Ching  LAW Sheung Wai*
and social workers in hospital and community
settings will be a trend worldwide in management
Faculty of Medicine

328

Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
 1 June 2007
International Symposium on Comprehensive Care
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
of the Fragility Fracture – from Hospital to
Community
Grants)
Background: Development of an accurate fall risk
 LEUNG Kwok Sui
screening test is key issue for a fall prevention
program to be effective.

CHAN Tan Jessica

SZE
Pan Ching  NG Wai Kin  CHEUNG Wing Hoi
Although there are some
 20 June 2007
assessment tools being used in Hong Kong, only one
 The Croucher Foundation
or two fall risk factors are assessed in these tests,
which is in contrast to the multifactorial cause of fall.
Fragility fractures are the forth major cause of
Furthermore, the predicting values of these tests on
hospitalization among elderly in Hong Kong.
fall risk need further investigation.
associated medical expenditure is also as high as 2
A fall risk
The
screening tool is thus developed by our department
billion each year in Hong Kong.
and in our preliminary study, the tool shows
fragility fracture have double the risk of suffering
satisfactory construct validity.
subsequent fractures.
Objectives: To investigate and compare the accuracy
population, this issue will become very important
of the newly developed screening tool and that of the
and attract professionals’ attention worldwide.
other tools.
multidisciplinary approach involving orthopaedic
Significance: The result of the study will provide
surgeons, geriatricians, allied health professionals
essential evidence on the selection of the best fall
and social workers in hospital and community
risk assessment tool in order to improve the
settings will be a trend worldwide in management
effectiveness of fall prevention program.
and caring of fragility fractures and it is the most
Design: Prospective 9-months follow up.
effective way to achieve better treatment outcome
Setting: A district elderly community center.
and prevention of subsequent fractures. Department
Participants: 50 community-dwelling elderly.
of Orthopaedics and Traumatology of The Chinese
Assessment: The new developed screening test, Time
University of Hong Kong is the pioneer institution to
up and go test, and the Berg Balance Scale will be
adopt this approach to provide services to patients
done to all the subjects at the beginning of the study.
with fragility fractures in Asia Pacific region (Lam et
Outcome measure: fall incidence of the subjects will
at Annual congress of Hong Kong Orthopaedics
be recorded by the investigator biweekly in phone
Association, 2005).
throughout the follow up period.
with other expertise through the symposium, and
Statistics and calculation: accuracy in terms of
hence the leading post of Hong Kong in high medical
sensitivity,
standard can be consolidated.
specificity,
positive
and
negative
Patients with
With increasing aging
A
Our experience can be shared
predicting values of the three tests will be compared
Aims of this project are:
using Fishers exact probability test and Kaplan-Meier
1) To introduce the new concept in comprehensive
hazard statistic is used to assess the likelihood of falls
caring and management of patients with fragility
in high- and low-risk patients for each of the tools.
fractures in enhancing treatment outcomes and
(MD06976)
avoiding recurrent fractures for Asia Pacific and
overseas medical, healthcare and social work
329
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
professionals
through
an
international
The investigators have carried out a pilot study and
symposium;
the
preliminary
findings
suggested
that
2) To update the latest knowledge in management
phytoestrogenic fraction (PF) extracted from a
of fragility fractures for related professionals by
traditionally and safely used ‘Bone Strengthening’
inviting famous speakers in this field in order to
Chinese
enhance participants’ medical standard, thus
steroid-induced ON via inhibiting both intravascular
promoting our high quality healthcare service in
thrombosis and extravascular lipid-deposit. In order
Hong Kong; and
to substantiate our preliminary findings, the proposed
3) To
propose
a
consensus
workflow
herb
Epimedium
might
prevent
in
research will systemically investigate PF using our
management of fragility fractures for related
established steroid-induced ON rabbit model through
professionals in order to standardize and advance
the following two specific aims: 1) to evaluate the
the medical and social welfare services for
efficacy profile in relation to PF dosage; 2) to study
patients with fragility fractures in Hong Kong.
the action mechanism profile in relation to PF
(MD06816)
dosage.
The scientific findings to be confirmed from our
R&D of Epimedium-derived-flavonoids-fraction
proposed research will help establish a logic
for Prevention of Steroid-induced Osteonecrosis
relationship
through a Unique Mechanism by Inhibiting both
underlying mechanism for further commercial R&D
Intravascular Thrombosis and Extravascular
of PF for potential clinical investigations and
Lipid-deposit
applications for prevention of steroid-induced ON.
between
prevention
efficacy
and
(MD06657)
 QIN Ling


ZHANG Ge
LEUNG Kwok Sui


CHEUNG Wing Hoi
LEUNG Ping Chung
Sonomygraphy
(Institute of Chinese Medicine)
 QIN Ling
 1 September 2006

 Innovation and Technology Support Programme,

ZHENG RP*

SO R*  CHAN H*
AU-YANG A*  CHI ZR*
 1 December 2006
ITF, Innovation & Technology Commission
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Steroid-induced osteonecrosis (ON) has a large
Grants)
impact on our health-care systems since steroid is
frequently indicated for treating many infectious
Electromyography (EMG) has been widely used for
diseases. The underlying pathogenesis is known to
the assessment of musculoskeletal functions and the
be both intravascular thrombosis-induced occlusion
control of electrical prostheses, which make use of
and extravascular lipid-deposit-induced compression.
the EMG signal generated by the contraction of the
The
residual
prevention
strategy
shall
therefore
muscles.
In
spite
of
the
successful
simultaneously target on those two pathogenic
applications of EMG in different fields, it has some
pathways.
Unfortunately, up to now there are no
inherent limitations, such as the difficulty to
candidates available to be used safely for long-term
differentiate the actions of neighboring muscles and
administration.
to collect signals from deep muscles using the surface
Faculty of Medicine
330
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
4)
EMG. Recently, a number of alternative signals
To use artificial neural network to predict the
based on the detection of dimensional architectural
joint angle and body posture using SMG as well
changes of muscles or tendons during actions have
as the combination of SMG and EMG; and
5)
been reported.
To investigate the SMG of residual muscle and
In our preliminary studies, we have successfully
the application of SMG for the control of
demonstrated that ultrasound (signals obtained by a
powered prosthesis.
single transducer element or images obtained using
The proposed SMG can be potentially used in various
an array) can be used to obtain the continuous signal
fields involving musculoskeletal monitoring and
about the muscle thickness change during the
control (kinetics and kinematics of normal and
contraction. We defined such muscular function
abnormal conditions of human movement), where
related
EMG or other methods are currently being used.
signal
obtained
using
sonomyography
(SMG).
Using
ultrasound
2D
as
(MD06519)
ultrasound
imaging, we have found that the SMG signals had
good linear correlation with the joint angle under
Icariin, an Estrogenic Compound Purified from
isotonic contraction and with the generated torque
Herbal Epimedium, Developed for Prevention of
under isometric contraction. The SMG signal has
Steroid-Induced Osteonecrosis through a Unique
been successfully obtained from the residual forearms
Mechanism by Inhibiting both Intravascular
of three subjects with the potential for prosthesis
Thrombosis and Extravascular Lipid-deposit
control. We have also found that he SMG signal was
a good indicator for muscle contraction strength and
 QIN Ling

LEUNG Kwok Sui

GRIFFITH
muscle fatigue.
James Francis (Diagnostic Radiology & Organ
The aim of this project is to systematically investigate
Imaging)
the behaviors of the SMG signals with respect to its
(Institute of Chinese Medicine)*
correlation
Man Simon (Lee Hysan Clinical Research
with
EMG
signals
and
other
musculoskeletal parameters of forearm muscles, its
3)

LEUNG Ping Chung

LEE Kwong
 1 January 2007
specific objectives are:
2)
ZHANG Ge
Laboratories)
data acquisition, processing, and application. The
1)

 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
To establish a hardware and software research
platform for the development and application of
Steroid-induced osteonecrosis (ON) has large impact
SMG;
on our orthopedic community and health-care
To develop SMG sensors based on single
systems since steroid is frequently indicated for
transducer elements with a configuration similar
treating many infectious diseases.
to EMG electrode instead of using expensive 2D
pathogenesis of the steroid-induced ON is known to
ultrasound imaging probe;
be both intravascular thrombosis-induced occlusion
To
systematically
investigate
The underlying
correlations
and extravascular pid-deposit-induced compression,
among SMG, EMG, joint angle, muscle strength
which results in an impaired structure and function of
and fatigue;
the intra-osseous blood supply system.
The
prevention strategy shall therefore specifically target
on those two pathogenic pathways. Unfortunately,
331
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
up to now there are no candidates available, which
Subchondral collapse induced by inadequate repair in
can not only simultaneously counteract these two
steroid-associated osteonecrosis (ON) has large
events, but also be used safely for long-term
impact on orthopaedic community and health-care
administration.
system as steroid is frequently indicated for treating
The objective of this preclinical
study is to develop a phytoestrogens agent Icariin
many medical conditions.
isolated by our research group from a traditionally
understanding pathophysiological mechanism of the
and safely used ‘Bone Strengthening’ Chinese herb
inadequate repair suggested that a decrease in activity
Epimedium to prevent steroid-induced ON using our
of marrow stem cell pool may not provide sufficient
established rabbit model.
The investigators have
regenerative precursor cells to meet the requirement
carried out a pilot study and the preliminary findings
of reparative osteogenesis. The therapeutic strategy
suggested that Icariin might be capable to prevent
shall therefore provide sufficient precursor cells
steroid-induced ON in a dose-dependent manner via
(stem cells) at early stage of steroid-associated ON to
inhibiting
and
facilitate reparative osteogenesis. However, pioneer
extravascular lipid-deposit. In order to substantiate
trials using autologous marrow-mononuclear-cell
our preliminary findings, the proposed study will
(AMMC) implantation show less promising in
systemically evaluate the effects of purified Icariin on
repairing steroid-associated ON than other types of
incidence and severity of the steroid-induced ON
ON, which is largely attributed to decreased number
using our established rabbit model through the
of implanted marrow progenitors under the systemic
following two specific aims: 1) to evaluate the
toxicity
efficacy profile in relation to Icariin dosage; and 2) to
pulsed-steroid-administration.
investigate the action mechanism profile in relation to
hypothesis I the proposal is that a cell-based strategy
Icariin dosage.
The scientific findings to be
by implanting autologous marrow-mononuclear-cell
confirmed from our proposed study will help
cryopreserved prior to pulsed-steroid-administration
establish indications of Icariin for prevention of
may
steroid-induced ON.
steroid-associated
(CU06503)
investigator carried out a pilot study using our
both
intravascular
thrombosis
influence
facilitate
Recent advance in
of
the
previous
Accordingly,
reparative
the
osteogenesis
for
lesion.
The
osteonecrosis
published steroid-associated rabbit ON model to
A Novel Cell-Based Osteogenic Strategy for
obtain
Repairing
Osteonecrosis
pulsed-steroid-administration, and then the AMMC
Lesion in a Rabbit Model Evaluated by an
was delivered to the osteonecrotic site induced by
Advanced in Vivo Micro-Computed Tomography
pulsed-steroid-administration.
Steroid-Associated
AMMC
encouraging.
 QIN Ling


ZHANG Ge

cryopreserved
In
order
in
The
to
prior
to
results
are
substantiate
our
preliminary findings, our recent in vivo MicroCT
CHEUNG Wing Hoi
supported by Faculty of Medicine will be employed
LEUNG Kwok Sui
for addressing the following two specific aims in
 1 June 2007
1 volumetric density
relation to time course change in ○
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
2 3-D mictroarchitecture of local newly formed
and ○
Grants)
mineralized tissue will be evaluated in terms of the
therapeutic efficacy of the hypothesized cell-based
Faculty of Medicine
332
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
strategy
for
reparative
osteogenesis.
Simon (Lee Hysan Clinical Research
The
experimental findings to be confirmed by our
Laboratories)
proposed study will help establish a potential novel
Gustav*
strategy indicated for early ON surgical treatment and
Margaret
ROLF

WONG

Christer
Wan
Nar
subsequently for reduction of joint replacement with
2000-01 Re-defining the MRI Reference Level for
poor surgical prognosis.
Cerebellar Tonsil - A Study of 225
(MD06545)
Adolescents - Normal vs Idiopathic
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
Scoliosis (MD00378)
for more details of the following ongoing research
 CHAU Wai Wang
Yiu Jack
at the department:

CHENG Chun

GUO Xia
CHAN Y.

L.*
Edition
Title/Investigators
2000-01 The
2000-01 Low
Intensity
Retained
Pulsed
Change
of
of
in
Mineral
Adolescent
Idiopathic
Content of Complex Tibial Fractures
Patients (MD00430)
(MD00354)
 CHAU Wai Wang
 CHAN Chun Wai*
Sui



FU Lap Kun

LEE Wing
2000-01 "Subacute Synovitis of the Hip in
Sze
Children"
2000-01 Low

Scoliosis
GUO Xia  CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
LEUNG Kwok
TSUI Hon For#
Preoperative
Somatosensory Evoked Potential (SSEP)
Ultrasound
Bone
Implications
Intensity
Pulsed
A
Follow-Up
Ultrasound
Distinct
Study
Entity?
of
84
Enhanced Bone Mineral Content of
(MD99384)
Tibial Lengthening (MD00579)
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
 CHAN Chun Wai*
Sui

CHENG Chun Yiu Jack

Kin Wah Bobby

Shu Hang Patrick
LEUNG Kwok

A
Cases
YUNG

NG Kin Wah
Bobby  LAM Tsz Ping
NG
LEE Wing Sze

-

2000-01 An
HUNG Wing Yin Vivian
Immunohistochemical
Study
on
Expression of Decorin and Biglycan in
Bone
2003-04 A Study of Tendon Healing in Sports
Injury
:
The
Transforming
(TGF-β)
Manipulation
Growth
on
Matrix
Factor
Osteopenic
Adolescent
Idiopathic Scoliosis Girls (MD00734)
of
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
Beta
Shengping
Deposition

TANG

GUO Xia

LEE
Kwong Man, Simon*  QIN Ling
(CU03354)
 CHAN Kai Ming

FU Sai Chuen
2000-01 Sternocleidomastoid
Bruma (Lee Hysan Clinical Research
Laboratories)
of

Infants
LEE Kwong Man
Muscular
333
Pseudotumor
(SCMPOI)
Torticollis
and
of
Congenital
(CMT):
The
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
Relation
Between
Pathology)
Spontaneous

GUO Xia*
LEE

Regression and Apoptosis (MD00523)
Kwong Man Simon (Lee Hysan
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
Clinical Research Laboratories)
Shengping


LIU ZQ*
TANG

QuanXM*

2005-06 Is There a Link between Anterior Spinal
QIN JZ*  ZHANG DW*
Overgrowth and Functional Neurological
Disturbance in Adolescent Idiopathic
2000-01 Osteopenia in Adolescent Idiopathic
Scoliosis
(AIS):
Scoliosis? (CU05506)
Preliminary
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack  CHU Chiu
Ultrastructural Study (MD00374)
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
Shengping

GUO Xia
Wing Winnie (Diagnostic Radiology
TANG


& Organ Imaging)
LEE
Kwong Man, Simon*  QIN Ling
Leung
(Anatomical
Pathology)
2001-02 Percutaneous Intramedullary Kirschner
Wiring
for
Displaced

CHAN Yu

&
Cellular
QIN Ling
LEE

Kwong Man Simon (Lee Hysan
Disphyseal
Clinical Research Laboratories)
Fractures in Children (MD99476)
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
Shu Hang Patrick

2005-06 Cost and Clinical Effectiveness of the
YUNG

Hong
NG Kin Wah
Kong
Scoliosis
Screening
Programme (MD05718)
Bobby  LAM Tsz Ping
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
2001-02 Promoting
a
Safer
Household
Kong*
Environment: A Volunteer-Based Home

HORIE Kaoru*

XIE Fu

NG Kin
Wah Bobby  YIP Siu Fai Paul*
Visit Programme (MD01665)
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
2005-06 Distraction Osteogenesis: The Role of
CIPRA

Neuronal
members*
Innervation
and
Neural
Peptides (MD05861)
2004-05 Effect
of
Low
Intensity
Ultrasound
on
RhBMP-4
Osteogensis
in
an
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
Pulsed
Induced
Xia*
Fusion
(Lee
Spinal
(Collabration with Poly U) (MD02790)
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack



GUO
LEE Kwong Man Simon
Hysan
Clinical
Research
Laboratories)  YEUNG Hiu Yan
GUO
2005-06 Abnormal
Xia*  NG Susanna*
Differential
Longitudinal
Growth of Vertebral Column and Spinal
2004-05 Identification
of
Prognostic
Cord in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Disease
Modifier Genes in Adolescent Idiopathic
(MD05899)
Scoliosis - A Six-Year Longitudinal
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
Follow-Up Study (CU04337)
 CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
Leung
Faculty of Medicine
Sang
Nelson
Xia*

(Lee
TANG

334
GUO
LEE Kwong Man Simon
Hysan
Laboratories)
(Chemical

Clinical

Research
CHU Chiu Wing
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
 KUMTA
Winnie (Diagnostic Radiology &
Organ Imaging)
Madhukar
HUANG Lin (Surgery)
NG Kin Wah

Shekhar
Bobby  YEUNG Hiu Yan


LEE
Kwong Man Simon (Lee Hysan
Clinical Research Laboratories)
2005-06 Relationship
between
Bone
Mineral

ZHENG Ming Hao*
Density and Muscle Fiber Typing in
Hong Kong Chinese (MD05319)
 CHEUNG Wing Hoi
Kwok Sui


QIN Ling
2000-01 Monteggia Fracture in Children - A
Review of 30 Cases (MD00535)
LEUNG
 LAM Tsz Ping  MA RF*  NG Kin
LEE

Kwong Man Simon (Lee Hysan
Wah Bobby
Clinical Research Laboratories)
Jack

CHENG Chun Yiu
2004-05 An Experimental Study on the Use of
2000-01 Anterior Spinal Fusion with Halm-Zielke
Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound to
Instrumentation System in Adolescent
Optimize Patellar Tendon Donor Site
Idiopathic Scoliosis (MD00788)
Healing in a Rat Model (CU04338)
 LAM Tsz Ping
 HUNG Leung Kim
QIN Ling

Bobby

CHAN Kai Ming  WONG Wan Nar


NG Kin Wah
CHENG Chun Yiu Jack

MA RF*
Margaret
2000-01 Calcium
Intakes
in
Patients
with
Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS)
2004-05 Wholesome Development for Physically
Disabled Children - Therapy through
(MD00838)
Music and Arts (MD04417)
 LEE Tak Keung Warren  CHEUNG
 HUNG Leung Kim

Siu King (Surgery)  LAM See Way
NG Kin Wah
Bobby  HO Pak Cheong
Sylvia  LEE Ching Shun Christine*

2005-06 The Use of Antioxidants to Reduce
CHAU Wai Wang
CHENG

Chun Yiu Jack
Tendon Adhesion (MD05371)
 HUNG Leung Kim

崔勛*
2004-05 Establishment

of
Mobile
Fall
CHAN Kai Ming  WONG Wan Nar
Assessment Center (MD04727)
Margaret
 LEUNG Kwok Sui
(Lee

FU Sai Chuen Bruma
Hysan
Clinical
Research
Anti-tumor
Aminobisphosphonates
CHAN Tan
Jessica  SZE Pan Ching  LAM Pui
Laboratories)
2005-06 Potential

Risk
Sze#  CHEUNG Wing Hoi
Effects
and
of
2004-05 Effect and Mechanisms of LIPUS on
Prenyl
Cartilage
Regeneration
in
an
Model
after
Transferase Inhibitors on Giant Cell
Osteoarthritis
Tumor of Bone (CU05508)
Subchrondral Bone Drilling (MD04419)
335
Rabbit
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
 LEUNG Kwok Sui
Pauline

CHEUNG Wing Hoi

2003-04 New
LUI Po Yee

QIN Ling
Born
Formation
and
Cartilaginous
Metaplasia
Postoperative
Articular
Tendon
Prevent
Cartilage
Deterioration and Improve Joint Tracking
- A Partial Patellectomy Model in
2005-06 Reconstruction of Damaged Growth Plate
with Bioengineered Physis Augmented
Rabbits (CU03342)
with Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound
 QIN Ling  CHAN Kai Ming  LEE
Application (CU05510)
Kwong Man Simon (Lee Hysan
 LEUNG Kwok Sui
Chung

(Institute
Medicine)

LEUNG Ping
Clinical Research Laboratories)
of
LEUNG Kwok Sui
Chinese


ZHENG Yong
Ping*
LEE Kwong Man
Simon (Lee Hysan Clinical Research
2004-05 Establishing
Laboratories)  CHEUNG Wing Hoi

Indications
for
Extracorporeal Shockwave in Treatment
QIN Ling
of Delayed Bone-Tendon Junction Repair
2005-06 Effect
of
- A Preclinical Study (MD04533)
High-Frequency,
 QIN Ling
Low-Magnitude Vibration Therapy on

LEUNG Kwok Sui

the Healing of Femoral Fracture in Rat
CHEUNG Wing Hoi  LU Hong Bin
Model (MD05666)

 LEUNG Kwok Sui

GUO Xia*
CHEUNG
2005-06 Electrochemical Bioactivation of Metal
Wing Hoi  SHI Hong Fei*
Surfaces for Biomedical Applications
(EE04454)
2005-06 Optimization of the Porosity of an
 QIN Ling  LENG Yang*
Injectable Hydroxyapatite and the Study
of Its Effect on Bone Ingrowth with
Orthopaedic Implants in Osteoporotic
2005-06 Nano-Function
Bone (MD05364)
Scaffolds
for
Tissue
Engineering (EE04730)
 LEUNG Kwok Sui

QIN Ling
 QIN Ling

LEE Kwong Man Simon (Lee Hysan
Clinical Research Laboratories)

NG Stephanie*

MAK
F T Arthur*  Robinson David G*

2005-06 Developing Novel Coating Technology
CHEUNG Wing Hoi  LENG Yang*
for Bone-Like Mineral and Collagen
Deposition
into
Tissue
Bone in Tibial Lengthening (MD00633)
Scaffolds
for
Bone
 NG Kin Wah Bobby
(MD04619)
2000-01 Associated Osteoporosis of the Host
Yin Vivian


HUNG Wing
 QIN Ling
CHENG Chun Yiu
Jack
CHIU

Ziad S*
Faculty of Medicine
336
Regeneration
MAK F T Arthur*
C.H.*
Bennedsen*
Engineering



MORTEN
NASEREDDINE,
Dept of Orthopaedics & Traumatology
Bone Tendon Junction Regeneration
(CU05512)
2005-06 Prevention and Treatment of Steroid
Induced
Avascular
Necrosis
-
 WONG Wan Nar Margaret
An
Experimental Study (MD05629)
 QIN Ling
GRIFFITH
James
QIN
Ling  LEE Kwong Man Simon (Lee
LEUNG Kwok Sui


Hysan

Clinical
Research
Laboratories)  LEUNG Kwok Sui
Francis
(Diagnostic Radiology & Organ
Imaging)
Wai Man*
CHAN
2000-01 Culture of Rabbit Chondrocytes Released
LEUNG Ping Chung
from Rib Cage on Calcium Phosphate
ZHANG Ge



Ceramic
(Institute of Chinese Medicine)
and
Collagen
Sponge
(MD98751)
2000-01 Treatment
of
"Floating
Elbow"
 YEUNG Hiu Yan
in

LEE Kwong
Children (MD00960)
Man, Simon*  CHEUNG Wing Hoi
 TANG Ning



NG Kin Wah Bobby
LAW Lai Pang (Institute of
Chinese Medicine)#
CHENG Chun Yiu Jack

TABATA
Yasuhiko*  CHENG Chun Yiu Jack
2005-06 A
Study
on
the
Application
of
Bio-engineered Chondrocyte Pellet in
337
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery
The Effectiveness of Group Intervention for
RESEARCH PROJECTS
Patients with Dysphonia
 LAW Ka Tung Thomas
A Pilot Study of RetroX Digital Hearing Aid
Implant
for
High
Frequency

LEE Kathy Yuet Sheung
Sensorineural
HO Nga Yi Fiona

LUI Lai Yee


WONG Hoi Wa  TONG Chi Fai Michael
Hearing Loss
 1 May 2007
 HUNG Che Wai Terry  TONG Chi Fai Michael

WONG Ka
Cheong Terence

 CUHK Departmental Funding
VAN
Voice therapy is one of the common treatment
HASSELT Charles Andrew
modalities
 1 September 2006
for
voice
disorders
and
there
is
considerable amount of literature supporting its
 CUHK Departmental Funding
effectiveness. Generally, voice therapy is conducted
RetroX (Auric GmbH, Rheine, Germany) is a new
on a one-to-one basis, where patients are seen
semi-implantable hearing aid proposed for high
individually by speech therapist. There is very little
frequency sensorineural hearing loss. Because the
literature on its effectiveness when treatment is
external auditory canal is not occluded, the RetroX
provided in a group format.
provides selective amplification of high frequency
investigating the effectiveness of group intervention
sounds. There are favourable results reported from
for patients with dysphonia. A sample of 20 adults
patients who had implantation in European centres.
is invited to join a fee-paying service for voice
However no reports were published regarding the
assessment and intervention. Subjects are required
audiological results from the Asia Pacific region.
to fill in three questionnaires including demographic
The purpose of our study is to document the
information,
subjective and objective hearing improvement of
potential risk factors for voice disorders.
RetroX for high frequency sensorineural hearing loss
subject will also receive a comprehensive voice
in Hong Kong where the sound environ of our built
assessment consisting of laryngeal examination and
up city and culture is unique.
perceptual evaluation. Subjects will then commence
The avoidance of
self-perceived
This study aims at
voice
problem
and
Each
occlusion effect of RetroX may be a benefit for Hong
a six week group voice intervention program.
Kong patients when subtropical climate is a
the group intervention program, an immediate
precipitating factor in otitis externa and discomfort
post-intervention voice questionnaire and voice
for conventional hearing aid wearers.
20 suitable
perceptual evaluation will be conducted to assess the
candidates with high frequency sensorineural hearing
intervention program’s immediate effectiveness.
loss will be selected for titanium tube implantation.
Subjects will also be required to attend another
The procedure is undertaken in a single operation
comprehensive assessment consisting of laryngeal
under local anaesthesia.
examination, perceptual voice evaluation as well as
The RetroX hearing aid
After
unit will be loaded after 4 weeks.
voice questionnaires at six months post treatment to
(MD06513)
investigate the intervention program's long term
outcome.
(MD06538)
Faculty of Medicine
338
Dept of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery
Multilevel models will be used to assess the risk
Voice Disorders among School Teachers in Hong
factors in relation to the voice measurements.
Kong: Prevalence and Risk Factors
This study will be the first ever study on the
prevalence of voice disorders among Hong Kong
 LEE Kathy Yuet Sheung
Michael



The identification of risk factors will

provide information on specific areas that one needs
WONG Ming Chung
to attend to for preventing voice disorders.
VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew
HO Nga Yi Fiona
teachers.
TONG Chi Fai
Furthermore, teachers identified with voice problem
(School of Public Health)
in the study will also receive early proper
 30 June 2007
managements.
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
(MD06377)
Grants)
Voice disorder is the major occupational hazard of
The Prevalence of Hearing Problems, and the Use
school teaching with the prevalence rate of 32% to
of
57.7% as reported in the Western literature. While
Against Pure-Tone Audiometry Results in Hong
there is no published data on the prevalence rate of
Kong Secondary School Children – A Pilot Study
Self-Report
Hearing
Handicap
Measures
teachers in Hong Kong having voice disorders, our
 NG Hoi Yee Iris
pilot study on 40 teachers showed that 55% had vocal

TONG Chi Fai Michael
problem presenting either with impaired voice quality
VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew
or vocal pathology.
Yuet Sheung
The present study aims at investigating 1) the


LEE Kathy
 26 September 2006
prevalence of voice disorders among school teachers
 Hear Talk Foundation
in Hong Kong; and 2) the potential risk factors
leading to voice disorders.
This study is a pilot study to investigate the
A sample of 945 teachers will be recruited by cluster
prevalence of hearing loss and hearing handicap in
sampling from the 18 geographic districts in Hong
local secondary school- children. Hearing loss will
Kong.
be screened by standard Pure Tone Audiometry and
Subjects will be required to fill in two
questionnaires
where
information
on
their
Otoacoustic Emissions Measurements in school
self-perceived voice problem and potential risk
environment, whereas hearing handicap will be
factors will be identified.
defined by responses to a self-reported screening
Each subject will then
receive a comprehensive voice assessment consisting
questionnaire.
The sensitivity and specificity of
of laryngeal examination and perceptual evaluation.
these tests will be compared (using pure-tone
Teachers will be defined as having voice disorders if
thresholds as the gold standard), and will be
they 1) receive an overall severity grade of 2 or above
compared to other published overseas results in a
in the perceptual assessment; and/or 2) diagnosed of
similar population. Correlation among hearing loss,
any vocal pathology.
hearing handicap and previous noise exposure
The prevalence rate and its 95% confidence intervals
experience will also be explored. The Institute of
of teachers having voice disorders will be calculated.
Human Communicative Research of The Chinese
University of Hong Kong is invited by the Hear Talk
339
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery
 CUHK Departmental Funding
Foundation to conduct the pilot study within a
one-week period in a secondary school with students
between age 12-18.
The SNIP is well known for its high recurrence rate
Previous noise exposure
and malignant transformation potentials.
including recreational noise exposure will be one of
Radical
external surgical approaches are used to be the gold
the key factors to study.
standard of treatment.
(MD06597)
resection
becomes
In recent years, endoscopic
more
and
more
popular.
However, comparison of treatment results had been
Packless Endoscopic Turbinectomy
difficult due to the absence of a well recognized
staging system.
 NG Siu Kwan  LAM Chuen Kwong
staging or categorization system reported in the
 1 June 2007
literature.
 CUHK Departmental Funding
a new staging system.
16 years were retrieved. All SNIP were staged with
treating patients who suffer from nasal obstruction
the new system according to the operative findings
due to turbinates hypertrophy. However, it carries
and histological reports regarding the extent of
the disadvantages of more bleeding and the need of
disease.
very uncomfortable nasal packing post-operatively.
procedure.
With
The recurrence rate associated with each
stage of disease was reported.
The authors of this study has modified this operation
endsocopic
The clinical notes of all the
patients followed up by the investigator over the past
been shown to be the most effective method of
an
There is no single system which is
accepted worldwide. This study aims at intoruding
Conventional partial/total turbinates resection has
to
There had been a few proposed
(MD06512)
good
visualization and some added minor surgical steps,
A Case-Control Study of the Risks Factors
the turbinate resection can be achieved with minimal
Associated with Sinonasal Schneiderian Papilloma
bleeding and abolish the need of nasal packing. It
improves patient's comfort and shorten hospital stay
 SHAM Cheuk Lun
which is the experience of the authors. This study is

LEE Lip Yen Dennis

TONG Chi Fai Michael
a prospective observational study to investigate the
efficacy and rate of adverse effects of this modified
 1 January 2007
surgical procedure.
 CUHK Departmental Funding
(MD06686)
The cause of sinonasal Schneiderian papilloma
(SNSP) is unknown. Previous reported possible risk
A Retrospective Review of the Treatment Results
factors included age, sex, smoking, viral infection,
of Sinonasal Inverted Papilloma (SNIP) Based on
genital
a New Staging System
or
determatological
warts,
inhalational
chemical exposure, allergy, sinusitis and nasal
 SHAM Cheuk Lun

WOO Kong Sang John
polyposis.

contribute to disease prevention and treatment.
TONG Chi Fai Michael
The
aim of the present study is to evaluate the above risk
 1 January 2007
Faculty of Medicine
Knowing the risk factors would
factors in SNSP as compared with a matched control
340
Dept of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery
group.
Patients and controls would be interviewed
and examined by investigators.
 SHAM Cheuk Lun
A standardized

KING Ann Dorothy
questionnaire would be filled in and collected for
(Diagnostic Radiology & Organ Imaging)
statistical analysis.
TONG Chi Fai Michael
(MD06567)

 1 January 2007
 CUHK Departmental Funding
The Relation of EBV, HPV, p21 and p53
Preoperative staging of disease is important for early
Expression in Sinonasal Schneiderian Papilloma
assessment of the severity of disease, planning of
 SHAM Cheuk Lun
Cellular Pathology)
surgical
TO Ka Fai (Anatomical &


approach
and
provide
preoperative
information for preoperative counseling of the patient.
CHAN Kay Sheung Paul
MRI scan was considered by most clinician to be
(Microbiology)  TONG Chi Fai Michael
more accurate in this aspect because it can
 1 January 2007
differentiate tumour from inflammatory diseases.
 CUHK Departmental Funding
There had been no report on the accuracy of CT scan
There had been a lot of publications on association of
in preoperative staging.
EBV and HPV with SNSP.
study is to evaluate the staging accuracy of plain CT
Most of the publications
were not on Chinese subjects.
highly variable.
The aim of the present
scan, which is the most commonly performed
The results were
preoperative radiological investigation.
Proof of such associations would
About 30
have important implications in disease prevention and
plain CT scans of patient with sinonasal inverted
treatment.
papilloma followed up by the investigator were
There had been reports on association of
p21 and p53 expression with different degree of
retrieved for evaluation.
dysplasia and malignancy founding SNSP. Testing
prior information about the clinical findings of the
for p21 and p53 expression may help to screen out
patients. These films were sent to the radiologist
tumour with a potential for dysplasia or carcinoma.
(co-investigator) would determine the extent of
The aim of the present study is to evaluate the
disease in the nose and each of the sinuses.
prevalence of these factors in a group of SNSP seen
staging system was used for staging. A preoperative
in PWH over the past 16 years as compared with
staging for each film was established base on the
those found in two control groups.
above findings.
The SNSP
The radiologist had no
Krous’s
These results were compared with
would be retrieved from the paraffin blocks stored in
the final staging based on intraoperative findings and
the pathology department of PWH. The first control
histological findings of the patients. The accuracy
group would be nasal polyps from polypectomy
of preoperative staging by plain CT scan was
operations and the second group would be turbinates
assessed.
from turbinectomy operations.
(MD06878)
(MD06598)
Self-Perceived
Peoperative
Staging
of
Papilloma
(SNIP)
by
Sinonasal
Plain
Swallowing
Difficulties
in
Nasopharyngeal Cancer Survivors: A Qualitative
Inverted
Study
Computed
Tomography. Is It Accurate?
341
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery
 TONG Chi Fai Michael  LO Suk Yee Phoebe
supportive
 1 September 2006
recommendations for future research scopes.
a
the
patients
and
making
Clinical Trial of HiRes® 120 and Auria+TM Sound
standard
modality for primary treatment of nasopharyngeal
carcinoma (NPC).
to
(MD06614)
 CUHK Departmental Funding
Background: Radiation therapy is
care
Processor
Chronic dysphagia is a common
sequela of the therapy.
Previous studies of
 TONG Chi Fai Michael
dysphagia in NPC patients are limited to the
LUK Pui Ki, Betty*

WONG Ka Cheong Terence
investigation of prevalence rates, clinical assessment
methods and quality of life.

 1 February 2007
Little attention has
 CUHK Departmental Funding
been paid to patient behaviour or support needs.
The purpose of this study is to explore patient
This study is to evaluate the benefit of a new speech
concerns,
psycho-social
processing strategy offered by one of the cochlear
consequences and coping mechanism in relation to
implant system (Advance Bionics). Subjects will be
the swallowing difficulties.
required to use a research speech processor
Methods: This study uses qualitative in-depth
programmed with the new strategy for 3 months.
interviews with phenomenological approach to
Their ability of tone perception and speech
explore patients’ views on the swallowing problems.
perception will then be evaluated.
An estimation of 50 subjects for the in-depth
be compared with the results obtained when the
interviews will be selected from a consecutive sample
subjects use their own speech processor. The new
of patients (estimated n=120) who attend the NPC
speech processing strategy is designed to provide
follow-up clinic in the ENT Outpatient Department
greater number of channels. With increased number
of the Prince of Wales Hospital.
After the
of channels, it was hypothesized that more spectral
completion of written consent, the consecutive
information would be available and would enhance
sampling patients will respond to a series of survey
speech perception.
questions, and a quick appearance will then be
(MD06404)
lifestyle
impact,
Results will then
conducted with them to identify their eligibility to
participate in the following in-depth appearance.
Perceptual Channels Using Current Steering in
The in-depth interview lasting for about 30 minutes
Cochlear Implant
will be audio-taped and transcribed verbatim onto a
personal computer to form a textual database for
 TONG Chi Fai Michael
analysis. Data will be analyzed concurrently with
data
collection
following

LUK Pui Ki, Betty*

WONG Ka Cheong Terence
Colaizzi’s
 1 February 2007
phenomenological methodology.
 CUHK Departmental Funding
Implications: The collected data will provide
healthcare professionals with the information how
This clinical study is being conducted to determine
patients view the swallowing problems.
Findings
the number of perceptual channels (or different
are expected to be useful for identify areas to give
pitches) that can be resolved by postlingually
Faculty of Medicine
342
Dept of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery
deafened adults who use the cochlear implant.
 VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew
The
number of perceptual channels will be compared to
Chung Kwong (Surgery)
speech perception ability and program parameters (1)
(Institute of Chinese Medicine)
to determine how perceptual channels contribute to
Chi Man (Surgery)
implant benefit; and (2) to provide information for


YEUNG
SREEDHAR Biji

AU YEUNG
 15 March 2007
enhancing sound processing. The long-term goal is
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
to develop improved sound-processing systems for
Grants)
patients with cochlear implant.
(MD06486)
Conventional filling cystometry (CFC) has ever been
considered as the Gold Standard investigation of
detrusor function. However, it is performed using
International Robotic Surgery Symposium
temporary catheters with a relatively short duration
 VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew
and artificial bladder filling. The behavior of the
 20 January 2007
bladder is interpreted from data in such studies
obtained
 Chindex Hong Kong Ltd  General Support
nonphysiological
and
stressful
conditions.
Program, Innovation & Technology Commission

under
Natural filling cystometry (NFC) has been widely
Income from the Project
used in urology. This technique is performed using
Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) has proven patient
bladder filling with urine at natural rats. Clinical
benefits of near scar-less surgery, faster recovery and less
studies have shown interesting differences in the
pain. With the innovation of robotic surgical system in
results obtained between the techniques.
the last couples of years, MIS technique and its post
generally acknowledged that NFC technique is
operative patient care is moving towards a new ear.
performed under physiological condition and the
Robotic assisted surgery enhances the dexterity in MIS
quality of such measurement is superior. However,
which enable surgeons to carry out sophisticated and
this technique has not well been characterized in
difficult MIS operations. Hong Kong is one of a few
small experimental animals.
areas in the Asian Pacific region mastering the robotic
cystometric studies used in rats to date are, in
surgical skill. The proposed conference, which is the
principles, essentially similar to those of conventional
second of its kind in the world and first in Asia, is
human studies, therefore, are non-physiological.
envisaged to be an ideal platform for the exchange of
Recently, radiotelemetry technology for monitoring
experience and novel idea in this new surgical technology,
small experimental animals has been commercial
and to consolidate Hong Kong’s status as the leading
available, reliable, and affordable.
medical centre in the region.
physiological
(MD06370)
technique is superior.
measurements
It is
The techniques of
The quality of
using
telemetry
Therefore, the aim of this
study is to characterize the natural filling cystometry
Radiotelemetered Cystometry in Rats: Validation
by using rediotelemetery in rats.
and Comparison of Natural Filling Versus
Twenty rats of both sexes will be used in this study.
Conventional Cystometry
The rat bladder will be implanted a radiotelemetered
transmitter (TL11M2-C50-PXT, DSI, USA). After
343
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery
7 days of recovery, a radiotelemetered cystometry
therefore appear that the activity of NF-kB is related
using natural filling will be performed in conscious
to the activity of ERK. Based on these data, we
and freely moving rats using the DSI telemetry
hypothesize that estrogen stimulates the proliferation
system
of
and
then
both
radiotelemetered
and
thyroid
cancer
cells
conventional cystometries using artificial filling
nongenomic pathway.
under conscious and Urethane-sedated conditions
this hypothesis.
will be performed subsequently for the comparison.
(MD06514)
via
an
ERK-related
This proposal aims to test
The data will be compared statistically.
(MD06726)
The Relative Sensitivities and Specificities of EBV
IgA VCA and EA Serology and Plasma Cell-Free
Estrogen Stimulates the Proliferation of Thyroid
EBV DNA for the Detection of Nasopharyngeal
Cancer
Carcinoma
Cells
in
an
Extracellular-Regulated
Kinase-Related Nongenomic Pathway
 VLANTIS Alexander Chris
 VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew  CHEN Gong

Dennis (Chemical Pathology)
George (Surgery)  VLANTIS Alexander Chris
LO Yuk Ming

TSANG King
Yin Raymond  WOO Kong Sang John  TONG
Chi Fai Michael  CHAN Kwan Chee (Chemical
 1 May 2007
Pathology)  VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 8 January 2007
Grants)
 CUHK Departmental Funding
Epidemiological data strongly indicate a relationship
between thyroid cancer and female hormones.
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is the commonest
Recently we have shown that estrogen significantly
head and neck cancer and the 6th commonest cancer
promotes the proliferation of thyroid carcinoma cells.
in men in Hong Kong. In the 20-44 year old age
We have recently shown that exposure to estrogen
group, NPC is the commonest cancer in men and the
increases the levels of extracellular signal-regulated
4th commonest cancer in women.
kinase (ERK) in thyroid carcinoma cells and that the
is not straight forward and requires experience and
levels rise as early as 15 minutes after treatment with
suitable equipment.
estrogen.
needed as symptoms of NPC, especially in the early
It is not possible for a genomic
Diagnosing NPC
A high index of suspicion is
mechanism to be responsible for such an early rise in
stages, are vague.
levels. ERK is one of the major mitogen-activated
has become part of the diagnostic work-up in most
protein kinases (MAPKs) which couples cell surface
centres. The objective of serology is to predict or
receptor signals to transcription factors.
exclude a diagnosis of NPC.
One
The result is that EBV serology
Plasma EBV
transcription factor known to be regulated by ERK is
IgA-VCA is sensitive but not very specific, while
nuclear factor-kappa beta (NF-kB). We have shown
EBV IgA-EA is specific but not very sensitive. As
that the activity of NF-kB is increased in thyroid
no single test can reliably predict and exclude NPC,
carcinoma cells and that the increased activity of
the two tests are used in combination to improve their
NF-kB contributes to the resistance of thyroid
overall accuracy, with VCA having a high negative
carcinoma cells to cell death stimulation.
predictive value and EA a high positive predictive
Faculty of Medicine
It would
344
Dept of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery
value. If both tests are positive, the patient should
has shown that there is a potential interaction
be worked up for NPC, and if both are negative, the
between E7 and p65, a subunit of nuclear factor
patient most likely does not have NPC.
kappa beta (NF-kB), in laryngeal cancer cells.
The
Our
sensitivity of cell-free EBV DNA has been reported
laboratory has also shown that the activity of NF-kB
to be higher than that of IgA-EA, and so the use of
is constitutively active in laryngeal cancer cells
cell-free EBV DNA to eliminate false-positive
transfected with E7. NF-kB is generally believed to
IgA-VCA results may offer an improvement in the
function as a cell survival factor.
detection of NPC.
activation of NF-kB is presumed to play a role in the
However, the concentrations of
Therefore the
EBV DNA and IgA VCA titres vary according to
growth of laryngeal cancer cells.
cancer stage or tumour load.
explore the pathway by which E7 leads to an increase
This study will
This study aims to
compare the relative sensitivities and specificities of
in NF-kB activity in laryngeal cancer cells.
EBV IgA VCA and EA and plasma cell-free EBV
(MD06610)
DNA to the stage of newly diagnosed NPC to
determine their accuracy and hence determine their
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
role ins screening patients in the general community
for more details of the following ongoing research
for NPC.
at the department:
(MD06418)
Edition
Title/Investigators
The Induction of Nuclear Factor KappaB (NF-κB)
by Human Papillomavirus-16 Oncoprotein E7 in
2005-06 Speech Discrimination in Quiet and
Laryngeal Cancer Cells
Noise in Chronic Suppurative Otitis
Media
 VLANTIS Alexander Chris
George (Surgery)


CHEN Gong
(CSOM)
Undergoing
Tympanoplasty (MD04787)
VAN HASSELT Charles
 CHAN Hing Sang
Andrew

TONG Chi Fai
Michael  LEUNG Kwok Shun
 18 April 2007
2005-06 A
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Randomized
Comparing
Grants)
Controlled
Bipolar
Diathermy
Trial
and
Chemical Cautery for the Treatment of
The portion of a population chronically infected with
Recurrent Epistaxis (MD04325)
human papillomavirus-16 (HPV-16) has an increased
 CHAN Yap Joseph

SOO Gordon
risk of developing cancer. E6 and E7 are the main
Ming Soon  LEE Lip Yen Dennis 
viral oncoproteins of HPV-16 that lead to the
HO Yee Man
uncontrolled growth of infected cells. E6 and E7


ABDULLAH Victor
VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew
alter a variety of cell proliferation and growth
molecules, and it may be these alterations that lead to
tumor development.
2005-06 Long-Term Outcome of the Hong Kong
In addition to inhibiting tumor
Vascularised
Temporalis
Flap
for
suppressor proteins p53 and pRb, E6 and E7 also
affect a number of other molecules. Our laboratory
345
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery
Mastoid
Cavity
(CLNTN) - An Outcome Measurement
Reconstruction
Instrument for Children with Hearing
(MD04837)
 HUNG Che Wai Terry
Chung
TONG Chi Fai Michael

Impairment (MD04359)
LIU Kwok

 TONG Chi Fai Michael

VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew
(Electronic Engineering)
Chi Pun
2005-06 Patient
Satisfaction
after
Closed
LEE Tan


YUEN
VAN HASSELT Charles

Andrew
Reduction of Nasal Fractures (MD04907)
 HUNG Che Wai Terry
Fai Michael
2005-06 Assessing Quality of Life in Patients with
TONG Chi

Nasopharyngeal
VAN HASSELT

Newly
Charles Andrew
Developed
Instrument:
Throat
Surgery:
Case-Presentations
Final
Multicenter
Year
Yee Phoebe

CAO Junpeng*
Network (MD04913)
Ming*  ZHANG Ting*
Alexander Chris
Michael





CHENG Wai
2005-06 A Study on Dysphagia in Patients with
TONG Chi Fai
Nasopharyngeal
VAN HASSELT Charles
Carcinoma
Post-Radiotherapy: The Diagnosis, Use
of
Impairment
Screening
Investigations
 TONG Chi Fai Michael
Elderly Chinese Population (MD04803)
Ming Peter
 LEE Ting Hon
Sheung


TONG Chi Fai
YUEN Chi Pun
Shu On Peter


and
Surgical
Intervention (MD05479)
and
Depression/Depressive Symptoms in an
Michael
LO Suk

VLANTIS
Andrew
2005-06 Hearing
Study
CHEN Chuqun*
Medical Students Using an Audiovisual
 HUNG Che Wai Terry
a
Disease-Specific
 TONG Chi Fai Michael
Real-Time
for
A
Using
(MD04457)
2005-06 Student Telecast Teaching in Ear, Nose
and
Carcinoma

KU Ka

LEE Kathy Yuet
AHUJA Anil Tejbhan

(Diagnostic Radiology & Organ
TANG
Imaging)
VAN HASSELT
Charles Andrew

CHAN Anthony Tak
Cheung (Clinical Oncology)

VAN
HASSELT Charles Andrew
2005-06 The Development of Word Lists for
Cantonese
Speech
Audiometry
2005-06 Childhool Dysphonia among School
(MD04750)
 LEUNG Kwok Shun
Aged

in
Hong
Kong
(MD05428)
YUEN Chi
 TONG Chi Fai Michael
Pun  WONG Ka Cheong Terence 
LI Shu Ying*
Yi Fiona
2004-05 The Development of the Cantonese
Lexical Neighborhood Tests in Noise
Faculty of Medicine
Children

HO Nga
LEE Kathy Yuet Sheung

VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew

WONG Ming Chung (School of
Public Health)
346

Dept of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery
TONG Chi Fai Michael
2003-04 Estradiol
Inhibits
Promoting
the
Apoptosis
by
Expression
of

YUEN
Chi Pun
Metallothionein II and NF-kappaB in
2004-05 The Functional Inhibition of NF KappaB
Human Thyroid Cancer Cells (CU03387)
in Squamous Epithelial Cells Infected
 VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew
with

HPV
16
Promotes
Apoptosis
VLANTIS Alexander Chris  CHEN
(MD04925)
Gong George (Surgery)  CHERIAN
 VLANTIS Alexander Chris  CHEN
M. George*

Gong George (Surgery)
LEUNG Chi Hang
Bertrand (Surgery)
HASSELT
CHAN
2004-05 Molecular
Regulation
of
Bak
by
Charles
Kay

VAN
Andrew
Sheung

Paul
(Microbiology)
HPV16E6 and E7 in Laryngeal Cancer
(MD04481)
2005-06 The Significance of Bak Expression in
 VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew

Laryngeal Cancer Cells Infected with
CHEN Gong George (Surgery)

HPV-16 (CU05557)
VLANTIS

 VLANTIS Alexander Chris  CHEN
Alexander
Chris
TSANG King Yin Raymond
Gong George (Surgery)

VAN
HASSELT Charles Andrew
2005-06 The Role of ZBP-89 in Chemotherapy of
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (CU05556)
 VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew
CHEN Gong George (Surgery)
2005-06 Complementary
DNA
Microarray

Analysis to Establish Tumour-Specific

Genetic Expression Profiles in Laryngeal
Cancer (MD05672)
VLANTIS Alexander Chris
 VLANTIS Alexander Chris  TONG
2005-06 The
Critical
Elements
for
Speech
Chi Fai Michael

CHEN Gong
Recognition in Cantonese - Implications
George (Surgery)  VAN HASSELT
for the Design of Digital Hearing Aid
Charles Andrew
Amplification Algorithms for Chinese
Tonal Languages (MD05366)
 VAN HASSELT Charles Andrew

LEE Tan (Electronic Engineering)

347
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Paediatrics
settings, as well as for treatment of other neural
RESEARCH PROJECTS
degenerative conditions.
(CU06505)
Thrombopoietin
Protects
Against
Hypoxia-Ischemia Encephalopathy in Murine
Long Term Neurocognitive Effects in Children
Models, and Signals Proliferation, Anti-Apoptosis
Exposed to Low Dose Prenatal Methylmercury
and Pro-Survival in Neural Progenitor Cells
Exposure
 FOK Tai Fai  NG Pak Cheung  YEW Tai Wai
 FOK Tai Fai  LAM Hugh Simon Hung San*
David (Anatomy)

LI Kwai Har Karen
 1 June 2007

ANTONIO Gregory (Diagnostic Radiology &
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Organ Imaging)  YANG Mo#
Grants)
 1 September 2006
Large-scale
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
epidemiological
studies
have
demonstrated long-term adverse health effects of
Perinatal hypoxia-ischemia encephalopathy (HIE) is a
low-dose fetal methylmercury exposure. We have a
major cause of acute mortality and chronic neurologic
large,
morbidity. The overall predicted risk of death was
documented fetal methylmercury exposure and a rich
reported to be over 12%, and a significant number of
data set documenting characteristics that may
survivors suffered from neuropsychological handicaps,
influence health outcomes such as parental smoking,
including mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy
parental alcohol intake, environmental factors, and
and learning disability.
demographic characteristics.
Our hypothesis is that
well-defined
cohort
of
subjects
with
We have previously
thrombopoietin (TPO) might be an effective agent for
demonstrated that in our locality fetal methylmercury
the treatment of HIE and the mechanism could be
exposure is significantly associated with maternal
mediated by anti-apoptotic and pro-survival signals.
fish consumption. We plan to recruit 100 subjects
Our objectives are to establish an optimized protocol
from
using TPO for treatment of brain damage induced by
neurocognitive testing to study the associations
HI in neonatal rats. The 7-day and 14-day postnatal
between
rats will be used as our models because their brain
methylmercury
histology bears similarity to those of preterm
neurocognitive development of these children. An
(32-34-week
human
accurate assessment of the adverse neurocognitive
newborns, respectively. For in vitro analysis of the
effects of low-dose fetal methylmercury exposure in
mechanism of neuroprotection, the C17.2 neonatal
our region will allow us to make evidence
progenitor cell line and primary neurospheres in
recommendations for maternal fish consumption and
culture, upon hypoxia and withdrawal of nutrient,
target mercury exposure levels.
will be treated with TPO.
(MD06400)
gestation)
and
full-term
If proven efficacious,
TPO could be developed for reducing mortality and
chronic sequelae of perinatal asphyxia in clinical
Faculty of Medicine
348
this
cohort
these
and
subject
perform
characteristics,
exposure
and
extensive
prenatal
long-term
Dept of Paediatrics
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
A Pilot Study to Investigate the Response of
Grants)
IMD-0354 Ointment in Patients with Atopic
Dermatitis
Childhood atopic dermatitis (AD) is a distressing
 HON Kam Lun

disease associated with pruritus and sleep disturbance.
LUK Nai Ming Tommy
The pathophysiology of pruritus is complex. Studies
(Medicine & Therapeutics)
have
 11 September 2006
neuroimmune
mediators
and Substance P (SP) have a role in AD and are
possibly involved in the pathogenesis of itch. BDNF
The purpose of this pilot study is to evaluate the
is a growth factor initially found in nervous system.
effectiveness and safety of an investigational product,
Increased
IMD-0354 in patients with atopic dermatitis.
disease severity.
Molecular Design, Inc. (IMMD), Japan, for the
treatment of atopic dermatitis.
blood
levels
of
BDNF
has
been
documented in AD patients and correlated with
IMD-0354 is developed by Institute of Medicinal
SP is another neuropeptide
probably involved in the pathogenesis of AD via the
The safety of
neuroimmunocutaneous system, and significantly
IMD-0354 has been tested in a phase 1 clinical study
correlated with disease activity. Our study aims to
IMD-0354 has been
evaluate how closely BDNF and SP are associated
shown to be safe and well tolerated in that study.
with disease severity, quality of life and nocturnal
A total of 20 patients with atopic dermatitis aged
scratching in AD. AD patients ≤18 years will be
(12-64 yrs) both males/females will be recruited.
They will be asked to apply the study ointment (0.3%)
recruited. Disease severity will be assessed with the
SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) index, and
on the affected areas twice daily at an interval of 12
hours for 3 weeks.
that
including Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)
 Institute of Medicinal Molecular Design Inc.
conducted in Hong Kong.
suggested
quality of life with the Children’s Dermatology Life
The effectiveness of IMD-0354
Quality Index (CDLQI). Concentrations of plasma
ointment will be evaluated by assessing the change in
BDNF, SP, AD-associated chemokines (cutaneous T
the SCORAD scoring and the Physician’s Global
cell attracting cytokine, CTACK; thymus and
Assessment scores by that of the baseline scores,
activation regulated chemokine, TARC), serum total
while the safety of the IMD-0354 ointment will be
IgE, and eosinophil counts will be measured in these
learned by routine clinical examination, laboratory
patients.
tests as well as the patient’s reporting of abnormal
All children are instructed to wear the
DigiTrac monitor on their dominant wrist before
symptoms.
sleeping.
(MD06496)
The monitor is programmed to record limb
motion between 10 pm and 8am the following morning.
In preliminary study, we find serum levels of BDNF
Pathophysiology of Nocturnal Scratching in
and SP strongly correlate with nocturnal wrist
Childhood Atopic Dermatitis: The Role of BDNF
movements and suggest that they are the pathogenic
and Substance P
factors of the annoying symptoms of scratching. If
confirmed, further trials in leukotriene B4 receptor
 HON Kam Lun  LEUNG Ting Fan
antagonist and 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor as novel
 29 June 2007
349
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Paediatrics
anti-pruritic drugs in place of antihistamines will be
antibiotics in childhood asthma management in Hong
advocated.
Kong.
(MD06499)
(MD06870)
Are Respiratory Viruses and Atypical Bacteria
Clinical
Triggers of Severe Asthma Exacerbation in Hong
β2-Adrenergic
Kong Children?
Asthmatic Patients
 LEUNG Ting Fan

and
Functional
Receptor
 LEUNG Ting Fan
CHAN Kay Sheung Paul

Correlates
Gene
in
of
Chinse
KO Wai San Fanny
(Microbiology)  WONG Wing Kin Gary  FOK
(Medicine & Therapeutics)  TANG Leung Sang
Tai Fai  NG Pak Cheung
Nelson (Chemical Pathology)

WONG Wing
Kin Gary  HUI Shu Cheong David (Medicine &
 1 November 2006
Therapeutics)
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
 1 May 2007
Diseases
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the
airways.
Grants)
Respiratory infections are a common
trigger of asthma exacerbation in these patients.
Asthma is a major healthcare burden worldwide, and
Epidemiologic studies showed that up to 80% of
is characterized by repeated and reversible airflow
childhood asthma attacks are associated with viral
limitation, β-agonist is the first-line rescue therapy
upper respiratory infections in the Caucasian
for bronchospasm in these patients. However, the
population.
However, the spectrum of respiratory
clinical response to p-agonist treatment is variable.
infections that leads to asthma exacerbation in Hong
Several in vitro and clinical studies suggested this
Kong children is unclear. In this study, we aim to
finding to be related to functional polymorphisms in
define whether respiratory infections trigger severe
the gene encoding β2-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2).
asthma attacks in local children and to delineate the
Over the past few years, many studies reported that
epidemiology of viruses and atypical bacteria causing
ADRB2 SNPs were associated with severe or
infections in these patients.
nocturnal asthma, lung function and bronchodilator
Asthmatic children
aged 3 years and above who are hospitalised for
responsiveness in the Caucasian population.
asthma exacerbation are eligible.
recent meta-analyses also confirmed some of these
Nasopharyngeal
Two
aspirate sample will be collected for the molecular
associations.
detection of a panel of respiratory viruses and
not detect such association, we found significant
atypical bacteria. These subjects will also undergo
inter-ethnic difference in allele frequencies of two
clinical and lung function assessments to define their
ADRB2 SNPs between Chinese and Caucasians.
asthma severity. The primary outcome in this study
Despite these findings, several studies reported
is the association between asthma exacerbation and
increased
the occurrence of infection (or co-infection) by
homozygous
asthmatics
respiratory pathogens. The results will better define
β-agonists.
The present study will determine
the benefits for respiratory virus vaccines and
genotypes and haplotypes of ADRB2 in Chinese
Faculty of Medicine
350
Although our published study could
adverse
outcomes
treated
among
Argl6
with
regular
Dept of Paediatrics
population.
This study will also ascertain any
will be investigated. (B) The expression profiles of
pharmacogenetic association between ADRB2 and
adhesion
bronchodilator responsiveness in our subjects.
chemokines/receptors/extracellular
The
molecules/
matrix
in
the
results generated from this study will add invaluable
migrated CD34+ cells will be determined.
data to asthma pharmacogenetics in Chinese, which
ultimate homing activities of these cells will be
facilitates future research to delineate the optimal
analysed by the short- and long-term presence of
strategies to treat our asthmatic patients.
human hematopoietic CD45+ cells and subsets in the
(MD06719)
bone marrow, spleen and peripheral blood of
NOD/SCID mice.
(C) The
Findings of this study will
Ex vivo Expansion and Homing of Cord Blood
contribute to better facilitating the technology of ex
Hematopoietic Stem/Progenitor Cells by the
vivo expansion, utilization of cord blood stem cells
Stromal Cell-Derived Factor-1 (SDF-1) /CXCR4
for adult transplantation and application of various
Axis and Signals
stem cells for regenerative medicine.
(CU06509)
 LI Kwai Har Karen

LAU Tze Kin (Obstetrics
& Gynaecology)
Regulation of Makorin-2 Gene Expression in
Normal and Malignant Hematopoiesis
 1 January 2007
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
 LI Kwai Har Karen

CHEN Yangchao
(Medicine & Therapeutics)
A major limitation on using umbilical cord blood for
transplantation, especially for adult patients, is the
 1 March 2007
insufficient quantity of hematopoietic stem and
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
progenitor cells in a collection. To address this issue,
Grants)
the ex vivo expansion of cord blood stem cells, in the
presence of early-promoting cytokines, has been
Makorin-2 is a RING zine finger gene recently
proposed and investigated. However, there has been
identified
evidence showing that this procedure might lead to
stem/progenitor cells. It shares a sequence of 105bp
compromise
in the 3’ untranslated region with the proto-oncogene
of
the
self-renewal
and
properties of hematopoietic stem cells.
homing
The
in
human
CD34+
hematopoietic
Raf-1 in a reversed transcription orientation.
Our
objectives of this study are (1) to provide a protocol
pilot study on Xenopus (X) animal cap explants
for the optimal utilization of SDF-1 for the expansion
showed that Xmakorin-2 regulated hematopoiesis and
of cord blood stem and progenitor cells with high
α-globin
efficiency of homing; and (2) to investigate the
BMP-4/GATA-1/GATA-2 pathways. Our hypothesis
homing mechanism of these expanded cells by their
is that makorin-2 has significant functions in normal
differential expression profile in the presence of
and malignant hematopoiesis in human.
SDF-1. To achieve our objectives, (A) the in vitro
objectives are to apply clinically relevant models of
migration and attachment properties of cord blood
hematopoiesis, representing different windows of
CD34+ cells, before and after ex vivo expansion, to
development to investigate (1) effects of makorin-2
stromal cell microenvironments (transwell system)
expression on ex vivo expansion of human cord blood
351
expression
mediated
by
the
Our
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Paediatrics
CD34+ cells by lentiviral-transduced over-expressing
endothelial function and OSAS were carried out in
and siRNA inhibition; and (2) expression of
children.
makorin-2
function is increasingly being used as a useful means
in
malignant
hematopoiesis.
Our
Physiological testing of endothelial
read-out system includes multilineage differentiation
of
to
and
intervention. Using this type of testing in childhood
megakaryocyte cells, and mechanism on BMP-4
OSAS may allow early identification of individuals
signals.
who are at high risk for cardiovascular events but are
the
myeloid,
erythroid,
lymphoid
Our findings would contribute to the
assessing
vascular
risk
and
response
to
understanding of makorin-2 gene functions and
yet to manifest clinical features.
clinical applications of these cell systems.
that childhood OSAS also leads to endothelial
(MD06399)
dysfunction reflected by reduced FMD, as assessed
by
Endothelial
Function
in
Children
high-resolution
We hypothesize
ultrasonography
and
this
endothelial dysfunction is reversible with treatment
with
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome (OSAS): a
for OSAS.
In this study, we will evaluate
Case-Control Study
endothelium-dependent FMD in the brachial artery in
children with OSAS compared with matched controls,
and assess its response following treatment for
 LI Man Chim Albert Martin  WING Yun Kwok
(Psychiatry)

SUNG Yn Tz Rita
Ming (Chemical Pathology)


OSAS.
CHAN Ho
(CU06508)
ABDULLAH
Victor (Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck S)
Use of Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist in the
 1 October 2006
Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
 LI Man Chim Albert Martin
Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) has been

CHAN Ho Ming
closely linked with hypertension and cardiovascular
(Chemical Pathology)
disease
(Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck S)  LAM
including
atherosclerosis
cross-sectional and prospective studies.
in
both

ABDULLAH Victor
Wai Kei Christopher (Chemical Pathology)
Increased
sympathetic activity and hypoxia associated with
 1 October 2006
apnoeic episodes in patients with OSAS are
 CUHK Departmental Funding
suggested mechanisms, likely through the induction
of
systemic
inflammation
endothelium-dependent
(FMD).
and
flow-mediated
impaired
Allergic rhinitis is a complex inflammatory disease
dilation
of the upper airway characterized by sneezing, nasal
The latter is recognized as a preclinical
pruritus, rhinorrhoea and nasal obstruction.
It is a
vascular disease and it precedes the development of
common condition, and its prevalence has been
atherosclerotic lesions. A wealth of evidence from
shown to be increasing.
both experimental and clinical studies has confirmed
prevalence of school-aged children with allergic
that the link between inflammation, endothelial
rhinitis is between 35 to 44%. If the condition is left
dysfunction and structural arterial disease emerges
untreated or symptoms are only partially taken care
remarkably early during childhood. However, none
of, significant morbidity can result.
of the studies that examined the interaction between
Faculty of Medicine
352
In Hong Kong, the
Dept of Paediatrics
Cysteinyl leukotrienes are inflammatory mediators
Neck S)  Bu Wei*  CHAN Che Ting*  KAM
common to both the upper and lower airways, which
Kai Man*  LI Chi Kong
has
prompted
therapeutic
investigators
potential
to
in
evaluate
allergic
their
 1 October 2006
rhinitis.
 CUHK Departmental Funding
Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) offer the
exciting possibility of once-daily oral therapy with
Sleep is defined as a reversible behavioural state of
few adverse effects, and also avoiding the discomfort
decreased responsiveness and interaction with the
of nasal sprays. In vitro studies, montelukast and
environment. Studies suggest that sleep is important
pranlukast reduced levels of nasal pro-inflammatory
in maintaining optimal health.
mediators
studies in adult humans and animals have focused on
and
inhibited
antigen-induced
Sleep deprivation
microvascular leakage.
physiologic and immunologic consequences of sleep
Using subjective symptom score as the main output
loss and suggest that sleep is involved in maintenance
measure, montelukast as monotherapy is effective in
of normal bodily functions and optimal immune
the treatment of allergic rhinitis.
However, data
performance. Specifically, sleep is believed to play
relating to the combined effects of LTRAs and
a role in the growth and healing of body tissues,
histamine H1 -receptor antagonists on nasal symptoms
learning and processing of memory, and central
in allergic rhinitis offer conflicting results.
In
nervous system repair. Inadequate sleep quality or
majority of these previous studies, the outcome
quantity can have a negative impact on the ability to
measures involved symptom score and subjective
pay
assessment of efficacy.
behavioral, and emotional functioning.
Nevertheless, studies
attention
and
concentrate
cognitive,
regarding the efficacy of montelukast in addition to
Beta-thalassaemia
is
current antihistamine therapy in local Chinese has not
characterized
chronic
been documented.
resulting from mutations that affect haemoglobin
In this randomized controlled experience trial, we
synthesis.
hypothesize that LTRA would provide additional
osteoporosis and expansion of marrow space in the
symptom relief and anti-inflammatory effects in local
skull and facial bones thus predisposing this group of
asthmatic children with allergic rhinitis already taking
patients to upper airway obstruction especially during
regular anti-histamine. We will study nasal cytokine
sleep. A study on patients with thalassaemia found
levels as a more objective outcome measure to
significantly more arousals and periodic limb
evaluate the efficacy of LTRA.
movements in patients compared to normal controls.
(MD06358)
This study however, consisted of only 10 patients of
by
a
and
Ineffective
hereditary
haemolytic
erythropoiesis
condition
anaemia
causes
whom six were of the thalassaemia major type. The
Daytime Sleepiness and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
true prevalence of OSA among patients with
in
thalassaemia is thus still unknown. It is nowadays
Children
and
Adolescents
with
rare for thalassaemia major patients to have
Beta-Thalassaemia Intermediate-A Pilot Study
significant facial skeletal deformity as early diagnosis
 LI Man Chim Albert Martin

and regular blood transfusion would have kept
CHU Chiu Wing
Winnie (Diagnostic Radiology & Organ Imaging)
extra-medullary erythropoiesis at a minimum. This
NG Siu Kwan (Otorhinolaryngology, Head and
may not hold true for those with thalassaemia

353
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Paediatrics
intermediate as chronic anaemia would still provide a
straightforward
stimulus for bone marrow expansion and hence a risk
curative and usually well tolerated. Nevertheless,
for airway obstruction.
significant risks and problems are associated with
There is accumulating
adenotonsillectomy
such
dysfunction and cardiovascular diseases especially
complications may include adverse anaesthetic
hypertension.
events, infection and haemorrhage.
is
therefore
of
paramount
operative
procedure.
being
evidence to suggest OSA leads to endothelial
It
an
with
General
Children with
importance to identify OSA in thalassaemic patients
OSAS are at risk for postoperative respiratory
especially those with thalassaemia intermediate who
compromise caused by upper airway oedema,
are already at risk of suffering from myocardial strain
increased
as a result of chronic anaemia so that further insult to
associated with analgesics and anaesthetic agents and
myocardial function is minimized.
post-operative pulmonary oedema.
Objectives
of postoperative respiratory complications in OSAS
(1) To investigate for the presence and severity of
has been reported to be 16% to 27%. In addition,
daytime sleepiness and obstructive sleep apnoea
adenotonsillectomy can result in some degree of pain
in
and family stress.
children
and
adolescents
with
beta-thalassaemia intermediate;
(2) To
assess
correlation
secretions,
respiratory
depression
The incidence
Thus many would advocate
alternative treatment for those paediatric cases with
between
degree
of
mild disease.
objective sleepiness with haemoglobin and
Nasal corticosteroids have recently been examined
ferritin levels; and
as an alternative to adenotonsillectomy in the
(3) To delineate anatomical levels of obstruction in
thalassaemic patients confirmed to have OSA.
(MD06479)
otherwise healthy child with OSAS.
In a
prospective,
study,
randomised,
double-blinded
children with mild to moderate OSAS were given
6-week course of either nasal corticosteroids or
Nasal Corticosteroids as Treatment for Childhood
placebo.
The authors were able to demonstrate
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
only a modest improvement in treated cases.
The
group was unable to show significant changes in
 LI Man Chim Albert Martin

adenoidal size assessed by lateral neck radiograph,
ABDULLAH,
possibly related to their inhomogenous sample
Victor J.*  WING Yun Kwok (Psychiatry)
population and short treatment duration.
 10 June 2007
For
paediatric patients with OSAS too mild to justify
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
surgery, nasal corticosteroids, if proven to be
Grants)
effective may be the alternative treatment of choice.
Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) in
We aim to carry out an exploratory randomized,
children is increasingly being recognised and reports
double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial to test the
suggested that if the condition is left untreated, a
hypothesis that topical nasal corticosteroids given for
variety of complications including failure to thrive
a period of 4 months would decrease the severity of
and neurocognitive dysfunction may result.
mild childhood OSAS.
The treatment for the majority of children with
interest is the change from baseline the apnoea
uncomplicated moderate to severe OSAS is relatively
Faculty of Medicine
354
The primary endpoint of
Dept of Paediatrics
hypopnoea index (AHI) as documented by overnight
Thus, a reliable set infection markers are required to
polysomnography after treatment.
promptly and accurately identify the infected cases
(MD06904)
so that treatment can be started without delay.
Equally difficult is the exclusion of infection in
A Quantitative Evaluation of Soluble Triggering
infants with suspected sepsis, as continuation of
Receptor Expressed on Myeloid Cells-1 (sTERM-1)
broad-spectrum antibiotics for presumptive bacterial
for
infection frequently leads to unnecessary treatment
Diagnosis
of
Late-Onset
(Nosocomial)
and emergence of resistant organism.
Bacterial and Fungal Infection in Preterm Infants
Hence, this
study attempts to define the optimal cutoff value for
 NG Pak Cheung
Yuen Yee


LI Kwai Har Karen

plasmatic sTREM-1 in detecting genuine bacterial
CHAN
and fungal infection in preterm, VLBW infants.
WONG Pui On Raymond (Lee
(MD06887)
Hysan Clinical Research Laboratories)
 1 June 2007
Mechanism of Thrombopoietin in the Protection
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
of Cardiomyopathy Induced by Doxorubicin:
Grants)
Endothelial Progenitor Cell Mobilization and
The Neonatal Team at the Prince of Wales Hospital
Angiogenesis
is one of the world leading teams for research in
 SUNG Yn Tz Rita  PONG Nga Hin Henry  LI
diagnostic markers of infection for newborn infants.
Kwai Har Karen
Recent key publications in this field are listed in the
reference section of the proposal (References 2-4, 8-9,
 30 June 2007
47-48).
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
This study aims to evaluate the usefulness of a novel
Grants)
marker sTREM-1 for early diagnosis of late-onset
(>72 hours of age) neonatal infection in preterm,
Thrombopoietin (TPO) has been shown to have
very low birth weight infants.
protective effects against doxorubicin (DOX) induced
Late-onset nosocomial bacterial infection is an
myocardial injury in our previous study. However,
important cause of morbidity and mortality in infants
the mechanisms of the protective effects remain
requiring intensive care.
unclear.
Preterm, very low birth
Recent studies indicated that hematopoietic
weight (VLBW) infants are particularly vulnerable
growth factors, such as erythropoietin, were capable
because of immune immaturity, severe underlying
to mobilize endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) from
conditions, and frequent requirement of invasive
bone marrow (BM).
procedures such as umbilical and indwelling long
cells have been reported to possess TPO receptor
lines.
new
indicating that TPO may play a role in angiogenesis
broad-spectrum antibiotics and advanced life support
for tissue regeneration. We hypothesize that TPO
treatment, a significant proportion of infected infants
protects
still follows a rapid downhill course leading to
through mobilization of EPCs from bone marrow to
septicaemic
the injured heart tissue and enhances angiogenesis and
Despite
shock,
the
development
disseminated
of
intravascular
coagulation, and death within hours of deterioration.
against
Moreover, vascular endothelial
DOX-induced
cardiomyopathy
neovascularization in damaged myocardium.
355
Our
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Paediatrics
objectives are (1) to investigate the effect of TPO on
manifestations of atopy and asthma in Chinese
mobilizing EPCs, characterized by co-expression of
children.
stem and endothelial cell markers, using multicolor
(CU06512)
flow cytometry, in bone marrow and peripheral blood
in vivo; (2) to assess the proangeogenic effect of TPO
EuroPrevall – The Prevalence, Cost and Basis of
in myocardium by immunohistochemistry staining of
Food Allergy
vascular endothelium with anti-CD31 antibody; and
(3) to investigate the correlation of gene expressions
 WONG Wing Kin Gary

LEUNG Ting Fan

of cardiomyocyte, apoptotic and signaling pathways
LAM Wai Kei Christopher (Chemical Pathology)
using gene array analysis and real time PCR

confirmation,
to
the
histopathologic
and
WONG Chun Kwok (Chemical Pathology)
 1 March 2007
electronmicroscopic changes. The cardiac functions
 European Union
will be assessed by Doppler echocardiography. The
protective mechanism of TPO against DOX-induced
Food allergy is an emerging global problem.
cardiomyopathy,
have
However, there is currently little information on food
significant clinical implications such as incorporating
allergies regarding prevalence or patterns of allergies
TPO with other protective reagents through different
across Asia.
mechanisms to achieve a synergistic effect against
prevalence and pattern of food allergies in Hong
doxorubicin-induced cardiac dysfunction in the
Kong and Beijing using the EUROPREVALL
DOX-treated cancer patients.
protect.
(MD06472)
(MD06455)
Relationship of Microbial Exposure and Asthma
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
in Chinese Children
for more details of the following ongoing research
if
established,
could
This study proposes to study the
at the department:
 WONG Wing Kin Gary
CHEN Yu Zhi*


LEUNG Ting Fan

LAM Wai Kei Christopher
(Chemical Pathology)

Edition
Title/Investigators
WONG Chun Kwok
(Chemical Pathology)
2005-06 The Role of G-Protein Receptors and Its
 1 January 2007
Ligand Melatonin on Thrombopoiesis
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
(MD05411)
 CHIK Ki Wai  YANG Mo#
Asthma is one of the most common chronic disorders
in childhood.
There is marked variation of the
2005-06 Development of a Novel Mouse Model of
prevalence of asthma in Chinese children from
Severe
different regions of China.
Dehydrogenase (G6PD)-Deficiency for
There is also evidence
of lower prevalence in rural areas.
This study
In Vivo Assessment of Haemolytic
proposes to investigate the life style factors, and the
relationships
between
Faculty of Medicine
microbial
exposure
Glucose-6-Phosphate
Toxicity to Red Blood Cells (MD05525)
and
356
Dept of Paediatrics
 FOK Tai Fai  LI Kwai Har Karen 
JAMES
Anthony
2002-03 The Role and Mechanism of Stem Cells
in Regenerative Medicine (MD02328)
Edward
 LI Kwai Har Karen  NG Ho Keung
(Laboratory Animal Services Centre)
(Anatomical & Cellular Pathology) 
2004-05 A
Randomized,
Double-Blind,
Placebo-Controlled
Study
Chung
Ngor
Juliana
the
(Medicine & Therapeutics)

CHAN
Therapeutic Effect and Safety of a
Hsiao Chang (Physiology)

SUNG
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for
Yn Tz Rita  FOK Tai Fai  LEUNG
Atopic
Po Sing (Physiology)
Dermatitis
of
CHAN
in
Children
(MD04981)
 HON Kam Lun

LEUNG Ting Fan
2005-06 In Vitro Induction of Human Embryonic
LEUNG Ping Chung (Institute of
Stem Cells into Functional, Multi-Potent

Hematopoietic Stem Cells Using a Novel,
Chinese Medicine)*
Chronological
Genetic
Coronavirus
Diversity
NL63
of
(CU05518)
Human
in
Mimicking
Normal Embryonic Microenvironments
2005-06 The Epidemiology, Disease Spectrum
and
Approach
 LI Kwai Har Karen
Children
(MD05544)

TSANG Kam
Sze Kent (Anatomical & Cellular
 LEUNG Ting Fan
Sheung
Paul
Pathology)
CHAN Kay

(Microbiology)
WONG Wing Kin Gary
Margaret (Microbiology)


LAU

Tze
Kin
(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

IP
2005-06 Stem Cells and Tissue Regeneration
CHENG
(MD05424)
Wai Tsoi Frankie  NG Pak Cheung
 LI Kwai Har Karen  NG Ho Keung
2005-06 Identification of Molecular Biomarkers
(Anatomical & Cellular Pathology) 
for Tobacco Smoke-Associated Lung
POON Wai Sang (Surgery)
Diseases in Exhaled Breath (MD05944)
Tai Fai

 LEUNG Ting Fan
Ming
(Epithelial
Fanny*


David
Therapeutics)


Yiu
HUI Shu
(Medicine
SUNG Yn Tz Rita
Research Centre)
TO Ka Fai (Anatomical &
Cellular Pathology)
Cheong
KO Wai San
&
WONG Wing Kin
Gary

Jack
Cell

FOK

LI
Biology
CHENG Chun
(Orthopaedics
&
Traumatology)

(Physiology)
CHAN Chung Ngor

LEUNG Po Sing
Juliana (Medicine & Therapeutics)

WANG Chi Chiu (Obstetrics &
2005-06 Genetic
Modulation
of
HbF
in
Gynaecology)
Beta-Thalassemia (MD05760)
 LI Chi Kong  CHIK Ki Wai
2002-03 An Epidemiological Study of Obstructive
Sleep Apnoea Syndrome in Hong Kong
Chinese Children (CU02161)
357
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Paediatrics
 LI Man Chim Albert Martin
Tai Fai

 NELSON Edmund Anthony Severn
FOK
LAM Chuen Kwong

(Otorhinolaryngology,
Neck S)

(Centre
for
Head
TAM

and
Siu
Lun
John
(Microbiology)#
LAU Tak Fai Joseph
Biostatistics)
and
2005-06 Obstructive Sleep Apnoea and Insulin
WING Yun Kwok
Resistance in Obese Chinese Children
Epidemiology

(MD05454)
(Psychiatry)
 NELSON Edmund Anthony Severn
2004-05 Cardiovascular Complication in Children
with
Obstructive
Sleep

Apnoea
LI Man Chim Albert Martin
CHAN
Syndrome - A Case Control Study
Ho
Ming

(Chemical
Pathology)
(MD04990)
 LI Man Chim Albert Martin

2004-05 A Quantitative Evaluation of a Leukocyte
WING Yun Kwok (Psychiatry)

Marker CD64 and Human Inflammatory
ABDULLAH
Cytokines for Diagnosis of Early-Onset
Victor (Otorhinolaryngology, Head
(<72 Hours of Life) Neonatal Infection
and Neck S)
(MD04463)
SUNG Yn Tz Rita


NG Siu Kwan
(Otorhinolaryngology,
Neck S)

Head
 NG Pak Cheung
and
Karen  FOK Tai Fai
CHAN Ho Ming Michael
(Chemical Pathology)*

LAU Tak
2005-06 A
Fai Joseph (Centre for Epidemiology
LAM
Wai
Kei
Quantitative
Evaluation
Preterm Infants (CU05520)
 NG Pak Cheung
Complications
the
Diagnosis of Necrotising Enterocolitis in
Christopher
(Chemical Pathology)  FOK Tai Fai
2005-06 Neurocognitive
of
Neutrophil Marker – CD64 for Early
and Biostatistics)  CHAN Dorothy*

LI Kwai Har

in

LI Kwai Har
Karen
Children with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
- A Case-Control Study (MD05446)
 LI Man Chim Albert Martin
2005-06 Neuroprotection
by
the
Stem
Cell/Homing Signal of Stromal-Derived

Factor-1
WING Yun Kwok (Psychiatry)
(SDF-1)/CXCR4
Neonatal
Rat
Hypoxia-Ischemia
2003-04 A Phase III, Double-Blind, Randomized,
Axis
Models
in
of
Encephalopathy
Placebo-Controlled, Multi-Country and
(MD05613)
Multi-Center
 NG Pak Cheung  FOK Tai Fai  LI
Study
to
Assess
the
Efficacy and Safety of Two Doses of
Kwai Har Karen
GSK Biologicals' Oral Live Attenuated
Human Rotavirus (HRV) Vaccine in
2005-06 Effect
Healthy Infants (MD03539)
Faculty of Medicine
and
Mechanism
of
Thrombopoietin on the Protection against
358
Dept of Paediatrics
Doxorubicin-induced
Man
Cardiotoxicity
 SUNG Yn Tz Rita
Elsby

Martin

SANDERSON
(Medicine
2005-06 Correlation
&
YANG Mo#
(Anatomy)


between
Airway
Inflammatory Measures and Obstructive
Therapeutics)#  LI Kwai Har Karen

Albert
NELSON Edmund Anthony Severn
(CU05521)
John
Chim
Sleep Apnoea Severity in Children
CHAN Wood Yee
(MD05620)
LI Ming (Epithelial
 SUNG Yn Tz Rita
Cell Biology Research Centre)

LI Man Chim
Albert Martin
2005-06 A Comparative Study of Nasopharyngeal
Aspirate and Nasal Swab Specimens for
2005-06 Exhaled
Nitric
Oxide
in
the Diagnosis of Causative Agent in
Children (MD05340)
Acute
 WONG Wing Kin Gary
Viral
Respiratory
Infection
(MD05850)
 SUNG Yn Tz Rita
Chinese

LEUNG
Ting Fan

CHAN Kay
Sheung Paul (Microbiology)

LI
359
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Pharmacology
HP infection in the stomachs of rats.
RESEARCH PROJECTS
With this
animal model, we shall examine the role of
cathelicidin in ulcer healing, especially its action on
Cathelicidin : A Potential Peptide for Gastric
cell proliferation and angiogenesis, the two major
Ulcer Healing
processes in ulcer healing. The signal transduction
pathway through which these biological processes are
 CHO Chi Hin

Xia Hua*

activated will be studied with regard to its respective
CHEUNG S.M.
receptor activation and stimulation of epidermal
Stephen*
growth factor/MAPK/ERK kinase in isolated gastric
 1 September 2006
epithelial cells and endothelial cells.
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
This signal
pathway has been implicated in the actions of
Cathelicidine is evolutionary conserved antimicrobial
cathelicidin
peptide
vascularization. On completion of this project we
present
in
mammals.
It
provides
on
cutaneous
wound
broad-spectrum defence against infection by acting as
expect to achieve the following goals:
natural antibiotics.
1.
Cathelicidin has been detected
repair
and
Establish a new role for cathelicidin in gastric
on mucosal surfaces, such as skin, respiratory and
ulcer, especially that associated with HP
gastrointestinal (GI) epithelia. Early studies on skin
infection;
2.
indicate that in addition to antimicrobial action
Define the complete signal transduction pathway
cathelicidin is involved in re-epthelialization of
for a new action of cathelicidin on epithelial and
wounds suggesting that it plays a part in epithelial
endothelial cell proliferation; and
3.
cell proliferation and wound closure. Our study also
Provide a new type of therapeutic agent that
shows that it stimulates proliferation of isolated rat
combines antibacterial and ulcer healing actions
gastric epithelial cells.
for future implementation in the treatment of
that
regulation
of
Recent studies demonstrate
the
gene
expression
gastric ulcer.
of
(MD06656)
antimicrobial peptides is closely associated with
gastric infection such as that by Helicobacter pylori
(HP) and they may play an antibacterial role in
Psychological Stress and Cigarette Smoking on
HP-induced gastritis. All these findings suggest that
Colon Cancer
cathelicidin may have dual actions in the ulcerated
stomach. On the one hand it provides antibacterial
 CHO Chi Hin
action against HP infection, and on the other hand it
 30 June 2007
may promote mucosal repair at the ulcer site.
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
This
unique and naturally produced protein that combines
Grants)
antibacterial with possible ulcer healing actions may
provide a most effective therapeutic approach in the
Epidemiological and experimental animal studies
treatment of infectious ulcer diseases of the GI tract.
showed that psychological stress increases the
Our study aims to consolidate this hypothesis by
incidence and promotes the development of cancers.
using an animal model with chronic ulcer disease and
It modulates the growth of tumors via neuroendocrine
regulation.
Faculty of Medicine
360
Also, cigarette smoking is associated
Dept of Pharmacology
with colonic adenoma formation.
People often
cholesterol-independent (pleiotropic) effects after a
Therefore,
long-term treatment. The existence of this enzyme
studying the interaction between stress and smoking
in the cardiovascular tissues and the ion channel
on
in
modulation of the vascular tissues by statins are
Our
unknown. However, it is important to demonstrate
previous studies showed that adrenaline (a stress
the extra-hepatic existence of this enzyme in order to
hormone) and nicotine (an active component of
establish the pleiotropic effects of statins observed
cigarette smoke) stimulate colon cancer growth
clinically in the cardiovascular systems.
through β-adrenoceptors. In addition, nicotine can
hypotheses that HMG CoA reductase exists in human
increase adrenaline synthesizing enzymes and release
cardiovascular tissues, and an alteration of HMG CoA
adrenaline from colon cancer cells. It is likely that
reductase activities has pronounced effects on ion
adrenaline may directly modulate colon cancer
channels opening of blood vessels. Hence, in this
development.
Furthermore, studying the interaction
study, we will employ molecular biology techniques
between stress and cigarette smoking on cancer
and patch-clamp electrophysiology to evaluate the
growth will give us insights about the pathogenic
existence of HMG CoA reductase in different
mechanisms of colon cancer. With this study, we
cardiovascular tissues and the effect of simvastatin
could develop an effective therapeutic intervention,
on the K+ channels gatings change of coronary artery
in particular using the β-adrenoceptor blockers in
smooth muscle cells.
treating and preventing colon cancer.
(MD06678)
smoke under stressful conditions.
colon
cancer
is
an
important
issue
understanding the pathogenesis of the disease.
We
(MD06438)
Identification
An Investigation of the Existence and the Role of
Extra-hepatic
HMG
CoA
Reductase
of
Cardiovascular
Active
Ingredients in Danshen
in
 LAM Fu Yuen
Cardiovascular Systems

YEUNG Hok Keung John

KWAN Yiu Wa
 KWAN Yiu Wa

WAN Song (Surgery)

 1 June 2007
CHIM Siu Chung Stephen (Obstetrics &
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Gynaecology)
Grants)
 1 June 2007
Danshen is the dried root of Salvia miltiorrhiza. It
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
is a traditional Chinese medicine commonly used in
Grants)
Chinese communities throughout the world including
3-Hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme A (HMG
Hong Kong, mainland China, and the United States
CoA) reductase is the rate-limiting enzyme that is
for the treatment of diseases of the heart and blood
involved in the endogenous cholesterol synthesis.
vessels. However, the scientific basis for its clinical
Statin
e.g.
use is not well established, and which of the
simvastatin) have been shown to decrease mortality
substances contained in Danshen are important for its
from cardiovascular diseases of patients that are
therapeutic actions are still uncertain.
(HMG
CoA
reductase
inhibitor
It is also
mainly related to the cholesterol-lowering and
361
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Pharmacology
unclear how well Danshen and its ingredients can be
also limited the numbers of studies reported so far.
absorbed into the blood stream.
In the current study, large numbers of homogenous
This study will identify and quantify the major
human mast cells will be cultured from fresh buffy
cardiovascular active ingredients in Danshen. Their
coat CD34+ progenitor cells to overcome these
oral bioavailability, potencies, and mechanisms of
problems.
actions in affecting vascular tone will be examined in
pharmacological tools are now available to better
rats.
These studies will reveal the important
define the roles of adenosine in human mast cells.
constituents in Danshen and give support for their
Results obtained will be useful to the future design of
uses in treatments of cardiovascular diseases.
anti-asthmatic therapies targeted at the adenosine
The
In addition, a more extensive range of
findings could also serve as a platform for
receptors on mast cells.
developing novel drug therapies from the active
(CU06515)
ingredients identified.
(MD06776)
Interaction between Mast Cells and PAR-2
Receptor in Knee Joint Inflammation
Characterisation of Adenosine Receptors on
 LAU Hang Yung Alaster  LAM Fu Yuen
Human Mast Cells
 25 June 2007
 LAU Hang Yung Alaster  WISE Helen
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 1 October 2006
Grants)
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Protease activated receptors (PARs) are G protein
Adenosine is an endogenous nucleoside whose level
coupled receptors which activation is uniquely
is increased in asthmatic patients and contributes
initiated by the proteolytic cleavage of their
towards the pathophysiology of inflammatory airway
N-terminal domain and the subsequent interaction of
diseases. Adenosine is believed to induce its airway
the exposed “tethered ligand” with another region of
action through activation of cell surface receptors on
the receptor. PAR2 is the subtype that is activated
mast cells.
only by trypsin and related serine proteases.
There are four subtypes of adenosine
Recent
receptors, namely A1, A2A, A2B and A3, and
studies have provided strong evidence supporting an
potentiation of mediator release from mast cells has
essential role of PAR2 receptor activation in joint
been attributed to the A3 receptor in rodent mast cells
inflammation.
but the A2B receptors in the human mast cell line
serve both as a source of endogenous PAR2 agonists
HMC-1. The effects of adenosine on human lung
and an important inflammatory effector cell is die
mast cells however have not been clearly defined.
mast cell.
Conflicting observations ranging from inhibitory to
endogenous PAR2 agonists, mast cell tryptase is a
enhancing effects on human lung mast cells have
well recognized activator of PAR2 and increase in
been reported.
mast cell numbers is a clinical feature of rheumatoid
Such discrepancy may have been
A potential candidate which can
With respect to being a source of
caused by differences in the purity of mast cell
arthritis and osteoarthritis.
preparations used.
The difficulties in obtaining
inflammatory effector cell, the mast cell is pivotal in
large number of homogenous human mast cells have
the pathogenesis of allergic and inflammatory
Faculty of Medicine
362
As for being an
Dept of Pharmacology
reactions through the synthesis and release of a wide
The proposed study aims to investigate the potential
spectrum of chemical mediators and cytokines. The
use of a Chinese medicinal herb Danggui with
hypothesis that endogenous PAR2 agonists may affect
anticancer drugs to improve the clinical outcomes.
mast cell function is supported by observations that
Danggui (roots of Angelica sinensis) contains high
PAR2 agonists are capable of inducing mast cell
contents of polysaccharides and phthalide derivatives.
activation and the identification of PAR2 expression
The crude Danggui polysaccharide extract has been
in both human and rat mast cells.
Interaction
demonstrated to have protective effects against
between mast cells and PAR2 hence appears to be an
anticancer therapy-associated adverse effects/toxicity.
important feature in joint inflammation and it is the
While, some of the naturally occurring phthalides
aim of the current proposal to investigate directly
have been reported to be anti-proliferative, possibly
such interaction in an in vivo rat model of joint
leading to beneficial anticancer activity.
inflammation and in isolated rat mast cells.
previous studies only investigated the crude herbal
(MD06762)
extracts, the detailed chemical base and mechanism of
However,
such beneficial effects of Danggui remains unknown.
Investigation into the Effect of A New Calcium
Therefore, the present study will emphasize on 1)
Formulation on Osteoporosis
purified phthalides to investigate their antitumor
effects by using human colon adenocarcinoma cell
 LIN
Ge

QIN
Ling
(Orthopaedics
line (HT-29) model; 2) the fractionated Danggui
&
polysaccharides to determine their preventive action
Traumatology)
against cisplatin-induced bone marrow suppression
 1 May 2007
and nephrotoxicity in mice; and 3) the fractionated
 Life Angel Limited
Danggui polysaccharides to assess their anti-emetic
This research project investigates a new calcium
effects in the Sunucs murinus cisplatin-induced
formulation. The results obtained from the studies
emesis model.
will reveal the oral absorption and bioavailability of
from about three studies will be compared with those
calcium of the new formulation calcium, and the
obtained from the corresponding Danggui extracts
effects of the new formulation on osteoporosis.
conducted in parallel.
(MD06306)
provide significant scientific information on the
Furthermore, the effects obtained
The obtained results will
potential and rational use of Danggui and other
Study of the Modulating Role of Danggui in the
phthalides and polysaccharides-containing Chinese
Cytotoxic and Systemic Adverse Effects of
medicinal herbs in conjunction with conventional
Anticancer Drugs
anticancer drugs for the better treatment of cancer.
(MD06748)
 LIN Ge  CHO Chi Hin  RUDD John Anthony
Evaluation of Anti-Emetic Activity of a Novel
 30 June 2007
Compound
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Grants)
 RUDD John Anthony  SANGER Gareth J*
363
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Pharmacology
 1 August 2006
Interstitial Cells of Cajal Networking in the
 GlaxoSmithKline Research & Development
Senescence-Accelerated Mouse
Limited
Nausea and vomiting can be serious side effects
caused by several life saving drug therapies.
 RUDD John Anthony

YEUNG Chi Kong

The
YEW Tai Wai David (Anatomy)  ROWLANDS
present project will evaluate the anti-emetic potential
Dewi Kenneth (Laboratory Animal Services
of a novel compound supplied by GlaxoSmithKline.
Centre)  P.L.R. Andrews*
(MD06526)
 30 June 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Profiling of Emetic Potential of Novel Compounds
Grants)
 RUDD John Anthony  CHENG Jun*
Motor disorders of the gastrointestinal tract are very
 1 October 2006
common
 Organon Laboratories Ltd
pathophysiology.
and
have
a
poorly
understood
Interstitial cells of Cajal have
recently been identified as pacemaker cells for
Current drug therapies to treat disorders of the central
contractile activity of the gastrointestinal tract.
nervous system may be associated with nausea and
These cells generate the electrical ‘slow-wave’
emesis.
The project aims to profile novel drugs to
activity that determines the characteristic frequency
identify characteristics predicting side effects prior to
of phasic contractions of the stomach, small intestine,
clinical testing.
and colon.
(MD06997)
and velocity of propagation of peristaltic activity, and
Slow waves also determine the direction
they are in concert with the enteric nervous system.
Evaluation of the Potential of a Novel Compound
In the proposed studies, we will investigate the
to Inhibit Cisplatin-Induced Acute and Delayed
functional networking of interstitial cells of Cajal
Emesis
cells in age matched senescence-accelerated (SAMP8)
and control mice (SAMPR1) using a microelectrode
 RUDD John Anthony  David Manning*
array recording system in an attempt to understand
 1 February 2007
potential differences that may occur during ageing
 Albany Molecular Research Inc.
with particular reference to the serotonergic and
cholinergic system.
Complimentary studies will
The treatment of cancer using chemotherapeutic
also involve an assessment of gastric myoelectric
drugs such as cisplatin is associated with severe
activity (EGG) and peristaltic sensitivity.
It is
nausea and vomiting that may discourage patients
hoped
new
from life saving therapy.
The project will
information necessary for understanding drug action
investigate the anti-emetic potential of novel
on the gastrointestinal tract and would aid in securing
compounds supplied by Albany Molecular Research
funding for future studies.
Inc.
(MD06462)
(MD06307)
Faculty of Medicine
364
that
the
studies
would
provide
Dept of Pharmacology
A Study of Gi/o Proteins as Neuroprotective
cardiovascular system as a vasodilator and as an
Agents
inhibitor of cytokine production during sepsis, acting
via the ghrelin receptor (GRLN-R). We have shown
 WISE Helen  WONG Yung-hou*
that the truncated GRLN-R polypeptide (GHS-R1b)
 1 September 2006
acts as a dominant-negative mutant and decreases the
cell
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
surface
expression
of
GRLN-R
when
co-transfected into human embryonic kidney 293
The neuronal cells of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG)
cells.
are an extremely useful model system to study the
HEK 293 cells with GRLN-R and prostanoid
factors which control the growth and regeneration of
receptors can also decrease cell surface expression of
neurites. Nerve growth factor (NGF) is one such
GRLN-R, possibly by the formation of heterodimers.
neurotrophic factor which appears to use components
We propose to determine the physiological relevance
of G protein-coupled receptor signalling pathways to
of these interactions by studying the expression of
promote neuronal cell survival.
GRLN-R, GHS-Rlb and three prostanoid receptors in
We have recently
We have also shown that co-transfection of
identified a unique Gi/o-dependent mechanism in
primary
cultures
DRG neurones which prevents retraction of neurites
endothelial and smooth muscle cells. In addition,
in response to stress, and in this project, we propose
since inflammation can increase GRLN-R expression
to examine the relationship between NGF and Gi/o
in rat vascular smooth muscle, and since GRLN-R
proteins in regulating this neuroprotective response.
expression is increased in coronary artery disease, we
By better understanding the endogenous mechanisms
also
in DRG cells which enable them to survive under
lipopolysaccharide on the relative expression of these
stressful conditions, we should become closer to
proteins.
producing better therapeutic agents for the treatment
(MD06331)
propose
of
to
human
investigate
coronary
the
artery
effect
of
of spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative
disorders.
Modulation of CYP Enzymes Activities and Drug
(CU06516)
Transporters by Isolated Components of Salvia
Miltiorrhiza : A Screening Protocol for Herb-CYP
Interaction Potential
Regulation of Receptor Expression in Human
Endothelial Cells and Vascular Smooth Muscle
 YEUNG Hok Keung John
Cells in Response to LPS Challenge
 1 October 2006
 WISE Helen  CHENG Cho Chak (Biochemistry
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
(Science))#
This study will investigate the effects of Danshen
 1 May 2007
(Salvia miltiorrhiza), a commonly used herb listed in
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
the
Grants)
Chinese
Pharmacopoeia
for
treatment
of
cardiovascular diseases, on the activities of CYP
The hunger hormone ghrelin has recently been
isoforms (1A2, 1B1, 2C9, 2D6, 2E1 and 3A) and
proposed to have an additional role in the
drug transporters such as P-glycoprotein (Pgp) and
365
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Pharmacology
2005-06 Biological Characterization of a Herbal
multi-drug resistance-associated protein 2 (Mrp2).
The crude extract of Danshen, the water-soluble and
Hair Tonic (MD05337)
lipid-soluble fractions, and individual, chemically
 KWAN Yiu Wa
defined active components are studied for their
2005-06 Mechanisms
herb-drug interaction potentials in in vitro systems
Responsible
for
the
including sub-cellular fractions, cDNA expressed
Enhanced
specific CYP enzymes and isolated rat and human
Lipolysis of Omental Adipocytes of
hepatocytes.
Obese Chinese Subjects (MD05656)
The combined in vitro and in vivo
 KWAN Yiu Wa
protocols developed in this study will be a useful
screening
tool
for
studying
other
β3-Adrenoceptor-Mediated
NGAI Sai Ming

(Biology)  YU Almon*
herb-CYP
interactions and contribute to the advancement of
2005-06 Pre-Clinical Evaluation of Combination
research, development and safe use of Traditional
Chinese Medicine.
Therapy for the Treatment of Arthritis
(CU06517)
(MD05651)
 LAM Fu Yuen
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
2003-04 Interaction between Nitric Oxide and
for more details of the following ongoing research
Human Mast Cells (CU03337)
at the department:
 LAU Hang Yung Alaster
Edition
Yu (Physiology)
Title/Investigators

HUANG

WONG Chun
Kwok (Chemical Pathology)
2005-06 Cyclooxygenase-2
and
its
upstream
2005-06 Characterization of Mast Cells from
signal transduction mediators in the
promotion of gastric cancer development
Suncus
Murinus:
A
Preliminary
by cigarette smoke (MD05855)
Investigation into the Roles of Mast Cells
 CHO Chi Hin  Chu Kent Man*
in Emesis (MD05922)
 LAU Hang Yung Alaster
2002-03 The
Role
of
Nitric
Oxide

RUDD
John Anthony
and
Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase in
Mediating
Inhibition
by
b3-Adrenoceptor
Activation
of
Voltage-Dependent
L-type
Channels
the
of
2002-03 Investigation
Materials
 LIN Ge
Single
Ken (Anatomy)


GAP
Standard

LI Songlin#

CHUNG
LIU Wing Keung
2005-06 Investigation
TSUI Kwok Wing
of
the
Pyrrolizidine
(Biochemistry (Medicine))
Chinese
Faculty of Medicine
with
Herbal
Hoi Sing#
Ventricular myocytes (CU02166)
 KWAN Yiu Wa
Chuanxiong
(MD02951)
Calcium
Guinea-pig
of
366
Medicinal
Toxicities
of
Alkaloid-containing
Herbs
and
the
Dept of Pharmacology
 RUDD John Anthony  HO WM*
Alternative Plant Sources for These
Herbs (CU05526)
 LIN Ge

Peter P. FU*

2002-03 Growth
ZHAO
Hormone
Secretagogue
Receptors: Cell Signalling and Receptor
Zhongzhen*
Oligomerization (CU02267)
 WISE Helen
2004-05 Defining the Pathways Involved in Acute
and
Delayed
Chemotherapy-Induced
Christopher
Emesis and the Roles of Tachykinins and
(Medicine))

CHENG Hon Ki
(Biochemistry
Glucocorticoids (MD04967)
 RUDD John Anthony
2004-05 Mapping Signal Transduction Networks
By a Genomic Approach (BL03768)
 WISE Helen  IP Y Nancy*  TSIM
2005-06 Broad Spectrum Anti-Emetic Potential of
Olvanil in the Ferret (CU05527)
 RUDD John Anthony
Karl W K*
P.L.R.

2005-06 The
Andrews*
Interaction
between
Growth
Hormone Secretagogue Receptors in the
2005-06 Potential
Involvement
Glucagon-Like
of
Peptide-1
Control of Cell Survival and Cell Death
the
(MD05719)
(GLP-1)
 WISE Helen
System in Emesis Control (MD05448)
 RUDD John Anthony

LIN Ge
Christopher


CHENG Hon Ki
(Biochemistry
(Medicine))
LUI Grace*  KUNG Kenny*
2005-06 Anti-Emetic Investigation of Compound
A in High Dose and Low Dose Cisplatin
Models
of
Emesis
in
the
Ferret
(MD05720)
367
Faculty of Medicine
School of Pharmacy
Method: Rat Experiment (randomized controlled
RESEARCH PROJECTS
design) will be carried out.
Antiviral and
pharmacokinetics of the active metabolite following
oseltamivir with and without CM formulae will be
Quality Assurance Test on Drug Tablets
determined.
(MD06300)
 CHOW Hee Lum Albert  LAM Siu Ling
 27 December 2006
Emerging Opportunities in Hong Kong Hospital
 Hong Kong Baptist University
System
Quality assurance test on drug tablets (Gliclazide,
Metformin, Paracetamol and Ranitidine) according to
 LEE Wing Yan Vivian
the British Phannacopeia 2005 Protocol.
 1 May 2007
(MD06735)
 Pfizer (US) Co., Ltd
Interaction of Oseltamivir and Chinese Medicine
In
Formulae
commissioned the School of Public Health of the
late
1997,
the
Hong
Kong
government
Harvard University to study Hong Kong’s healthcare
 CHOW Sing Sum Moses
Paul (Microbiology)


system and to propose alternative options to improve
CHAN Kay Sheung
ZUO Zhong

its financing and delivery of healthcare. Three major
CHAN
areas
Yan Keung Thomas (Medicine & Therapeutics)
of
weakness
were
identified:
1)

CHE Chun Tao (School of Chinese Medicine)
compartmentalization in the delivery of services; 2)

JAMES Anthony Edward (Laboratory Animal
variable quality of care particularly in the private
sector;
Services Centre)
and
3)
questionable
financial
and
organizational sustainability. The report proposed
 15 January 2007
alternative options to improve the financing and
 Hong Kong Hospital Authority
delivery of healthcare. As a result, the healthcare
for
financing system will be modified and changed in the
prevention and treatment of avian influence by the
next decade. These modifications will definitely have
Hospital Authority (HA). In addition, HA’s Expert
an impact not only on the healthcare sector but also
Panel on Chinese medicine has recommended 4
on the business sectors, such as, pharmaceutical and
specific Chinese medicine (CM) formulae for
the insurance industries.
prevention and treatment of avian influenza in
The objective of this project is to conduct an
conjunction with western medicine (WM). In view
information synthesis of the available data sources
of lack of information on such combination, the
for health services research purposes in Hong Kong.
present proposal aims to determine the potential
Identification of such data sources should encompass,
interaction of oseltamivir in combination with 2
but not be restricted to, local language publications,
specific Chinese medicine (CM) formulae in animals.
abstract and peer-reviewed articles, internet searches,
Objective:
Oseltamivir
is
recommended
as well as data held by or available through
interviews with Key Opinion Leaders in Health
Faculty of Medicine
368
School of Pharmacy
Services Research / Outcomes Research / Health
warfarin doses and the doses calculated by the
economics / Pharmaco-Economics area.
algorithm in another cohort of 50 patients stable on
(MD06517)
warfarin therapy recruited in the anticoagulation
clinic.
Is Clinical Translation of Pharmacogenetics
Significance: Based upon the effect size of the
Possible in Anticoagulation Therapy?
genetic variants (in addition to the clinical and
demographic information), more accurate dosing
 YOU Hoi Sze Joyce

ZUO Zhong
Gregory (Medicine & Therapeutics)


CHENG
algorithm can be developed for computerized dosing
WAYE
programs for initiation of warfarin therapy and
dosage adjustment during therapy, and potentially
Mary Miu Yee (Biochemistry (Medicine))
lead to reduction in long-term cost and improvement
 1 January 2007
in anticoagulation control of warfarin therapy.
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
(CU06519)
Background: Chinese patients require almost a 50%
lower maintenance dose of warfarin and are more
High-Throughput
vulnerable to bleeding complications than Caucasian
Transporters Involved in the Disposition of
patients.
Flavonoid Baicalein using Transfected Cell Line
Polymorphisms of genes relating to
pharmacokinetics
and
pharmacodynamics
of
Identification
of
Efflux
Membrane Vesicles Systems
warfarin both contribute to the variation in warfarin
dosing and sensitivity.
 ZUO Zhong  LIN Ge (Pharmacology)
Objectives: To evaluate the effect size of genetic
 1 June 2007
variants of VKORCI, Factors II & VII, GGC, and
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
CYP2C9 on warfarin dosing requirement in Hong
Grants)
Kong Chinese patients and to develop and validate a
warfarin dosing algorithm based on genetic, clinical
Flavonoids are polyphenolic phytochemicals present
and demographic information.
extensively in our daily diet, medicinal plants and
Methods: In this 24-month cohort study, genotyping
herbal remedies.
of the target genes will be conducted in 200 patients
extensive
on stable maintenance dose of warfarin, recruited
glucuronidation, methylation and sulfation) followed
from the anticoagulation clinic of the Prince of Wales
by active efflux in the small intestine is involved in
Hospital. Clinical and demographic data will also
the poor absorption of flavonoids.
be collected.
Multiple linear regression model
extensive research has been conducted for the
including genetic, clinical and demographic factors
metabolic mechanism of flavonoids, the efflux
will be constructed for normalized maintenance dose
transporters of the formed glucuronides and sulfates
to determine the effect size of each factor. Factors
are barely studied mainly due to the lack of fast
that are significantly associated with warfarin dose
screening approach for the enrolled transporters.
will be considered in a stepwise regression model to
With the recently developed high through put
compute the stable warfarin dose.
The dosing
screening approach using in vitro transfected cell line
algorithm will be validated by comparing the current
membrane vesicles systems, its application on the
369
Phase
It has been suggested that the
II
metabolism
(mainly
Even though
Faculty of Medicine
School of Pharmacy
glucuronides and sulfates of flavonoids and other
2005-06 Preliminary Feasibility Testing of the
related naturally occurring components become
Rapid Mucosal Delivery of Meloxicam
feasible.
and Meclizine (MD05892)
and
Based on our extensive biopharmaceutic
pharmacokinetic
research
experience
 CHOW Sing Sum Moses
on

ZUO
Zhong  WANG Yanfeng
flavonoids, baicalein was selected as the model
compound. We aim to 1) prepare the glucuronides
and sulfates of baicalein using in vitro enzymatic
2005-06 Development of an In-Vitro Method for
incubation system; and 2) investigate the specific
Achieving Rapid Sublingual Delivery -
transporters (including MRPl, MRP2, MRP3, MXR
Application
and MDR1) involved in the efflux of these
(MD05529)
glucuronides and sulfates using the in vitro high
 CHOW Sing Sum Moses
to
Analgesic
Agents

ZUO
through put approach by transfected cell line
Zhong
membrane vesicles. The proposed study will set as a
(Anaesthesia & Intensive Care)
pilot study for the in vitro high throughput screening
TOMLINSON Brian (Medicine &
for the transporters involved in the disposition of
Therapeutics)

JOYNT Gavin Matthew

flavonooids in vivo so as to use flavonoid-containing
2004-05 Synergistic
TCM products more efficiently and also predict
Interaction
between
potential transporter-based herb-drug interactions.
Platinum-Based Antitumor Agents and
(MD06854)
Demethylcantharidin,
a
Modified
Traditional Chinese Medicine (CU04357)
 HO Yee Ping
Please refer to previous issues of this publication

AU-YEUNG Chik
Fun Steve (Chemistry)
for more details of the following ongoing research
at the department:
2005-06 The
Edition
Anti-Leukemia
Immunomodulatory
Title/Investigators
Agaricus
2004-05 Aqueous-Aqueous
Emulsion
LEUNG
ZUO

FUNG Kwok

K
N
(Biochemistry
2005-06 Cost-Effectiveness
of
Pneumococcal
(Science))
2005-06 Extended Service of Stability Study (2
Vaccination for Infants with the 7-Valent
year) (MD05383)

Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine In
LAM Siu
Hong Kong: Analysis with the Markov
Ling
Process (MD05386)
Faculty of Medicine
of
Extracts
Pui (Biochemistry (Medicine))
Zhong
 CHOW Hee Lum Albert
Murill
 LAU Bik San Clara
for Sustained Release (MD04857)

Activities
(CU05531)
for
Microencapsulation of Delicate Proteins
 CHOW Hee Lum Albert
Blazei
and
370
School of Pharmacy
 LEE Kwing Chin Kenneth
Kam Lun (Paediatrics)


HON
(Biochemistry
CHENG
LEE Wing
Gregory
(Medicine

&
Therapeutics)
Yan Vivian
2005-06 Economic
(Medicine))
Impact
of
2005-06 Isoflavone Therapy for Patient with
Substituting
Lamivudine with Entecavir in Chronic
Watchful
Hepatitis B Patients in the Public Health
Hyperlasia - A Cost-Utility Analysis
Care Sector of Hong Kong (MD05886)
(MD05680)
 LEE Kwing Chin Kenneth
 YOU Hoi Sze Joyce

LEE
Waiting
Benign
Prostate
Wing Yan Vivian
2005-06 Role of Interplay between UGT Isozymes
and MRP Transporters in the Oral
2004-05 The Role of 5' - Flanking Region
Polymorphisms of CYP2C9 on Warfarin
Absorption of Baicalein (MD05602)
Metabolism in Chinese Patients - Is it the
 ZUO
Missing Link? (MD04361)
Zhong

LIN
Ge
(Pharmacology)
 YOU Hoi Sze Joyce  ZUO Zhong 
WAYE
Mary
Miu
Yee
371
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Physiology
未知功能的新基因和蛋白研究
RESEARCH PROJECTS
在前項 973 項目“生殖健康基础研究”初期中，本課
題組分離鑒定了 128 條與睪丸發育/精子發生/精子
成熟/精子功能相關的基因，在對其中部分基因的
Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center
功能進行研究的過程中，建主了一系列研究精子功
 CHAN Hsiao Chang

能的技術平台。本課題將在此基础上，繼續對上述
LI Ming (Epithelial Cell
克隆的新基因進行其功能研究。此外，在前項 973
Biology Research Centre)  ZHOU Zhen
項目研究後期，本課題組已運用蛋白質組學技術分
 1 August 2006
析了人睪丸組織和小鼠睪丸組織的蛋白質表達，並
 Focused Investments Scheme - Major Area of
構建了人睪丸 1415 個蛋白的譜系，分離鑒定到了
Biomedical Sciences
一批與精子功能相關的蛋白，其中還包括正常睪丸
The Epithelial Cell Biology Research Centre
與生精紊亂睪丸及热作用睪丸差異表達蛋白。根據
(ECBRC), the first of its kind promoted and
其表達特點和功能研究情況，這些蛋白可以分為以
supported
Science
下四類﹕已知的精子功能蛋白；己知在體細胞中功
Foundation of China (NSFC), was established in
能，但在子精子中未知功能的蛋白；GenBank 中已
1999
institutions
克隆但没有相關能研究的蛋白質，主要包括以
throughout China. With substantial support from the
KIAA 命各的假想蛋白；不同修飾的同一種蛋白。
University, ECBRC will further develop its existing
以上述未知功能的蛋白和已克隆的新基因同時作
strengths, infrastructure and research capabilities to
為研究的起點﹕深入探討其在精子運動。精子獲。
establish a word class multidisciplinary center for
頂體反應能、精卵識別和精卵融合等一系列事件的
epithelial cell biology research.
作用，肧時開展精子功能相關蛋白表達障礙與生殖
(MD06743)
疾病的研究，闡明其在精子功能障礙中的分子機
with
by
the
over
National
20
Natural
collaborating
理。
精子功能相關蛋白質與疾病
已知體細胞功能而未知精子功能的基因和蛋白研
Sperm Function Related Protein and Diseases
究在精子功能蛋白中，有一類蛋白同時也在體細胞
中表達，而且，其中部分蛋白已知其在體胞中的功
 許陳小章 CHAN Hsiao Chang

能，我們能够根據這些功能信息應用於精子功能的
DUAN En
研究中。以 CFTR 為例，本課題組長期以來玫力於
Kui*  SHA Jia Hao*  ZHANG Yong Lian*
研究 CFTR 在生殖系統中的作用，証實了 CFTR 在
 1 September 2006
女性生殖道的表達並在子宮內膜中直接參與了
 National Basic Research Program of China - 973
HCO3 的轉運。此外，CFTR 介導的女性生殖道上
本課題以已建立的功能基因組研究技術、蛋白質組
皮 HCO3 分泌受損可導致精子獲能以及受精能力
學研究技術、精子功能研究技術和上皮細胞研究技
的低下，提示該現象能是女性不育的一個重要病
術，深入研究精子功能相關基因和蛋白 (包括未知
因。CFTR 直接參與了子宮內膜 HCO3 的轉運，那
功能的基因和蛋白和已知體細胞中功能而未知精
麼它有没有可能也參與介導精子獲能所需要的
子功能的基因和蛋白) 在精子運動、精子獲能、頂
HCO3 轉運呢？進一步研究我們發現 CFTR 在人和
體反應、精卵識別和精卵融合等一系列事件中的作
小鼠精子有表達。因此我們提出以下假設﹕精子膜
用。
上 CFTR 介導精子獲能所需的 HCO3 轉運，而 CFTR
Faculty of Medicine
372
Dept of Physiology
基因缺陷會影響精子受精能力的獲得，並引起不
and paracrine proteins with important roles in
育。為了驗証這一假說，我們將分別以離體和在體
metabolism
的水平，對 CFTR 在正常生育男子和各種病因引起
Dysfunction of protein secretion by adipose tissue
的男性不育症精子細胞的表達及其對精子膜上
has been reported in obesity-related diseases, such as
CFTR 參與介導 HCO3 轉運的可能性及具體機制進
diabetes mellitus, hypertension, atherosclerosis and
行深入研究。
coronary artery disease. Thus, adipocytes seem to
除此之外，在前期研究所建立的精子功能相關蛋白
play crucial roles in the development of metabolic
表達譜系中，我們還發現一類特殊的蛋白，它們不
syndrome and vascular disease.
僅在譜系中特異高表達，也有文獻表明在一些腫瘤
between obesity, insulin resistance and hypertension
組織中高表達，而在其他正常組織没有表達，這類
is
蛋稱為 CT(Cancer/Testis) 抗原。其實腫瘤發生和
mechanisms involved remain relatively unclear.
配子發育，尤其是精子發生/精子功能之間存在很
Circulating
大的相似性，比如血管形成。廣泛低甲基化以及
identified
CT 抗原的表達等。目前已有 47 個 CT 抗原，其中
predominantly from the fat cells are reduced in
部分部抗原已被証實與腫瘤發生發展和精子發生
obesity and type 2 diabetes.
及其功能的發揮密切相關。而如何解釋腫瘤發生和
demonstrate several biological actions of adiponectin
配子發育之間的相似性則要依賴於對兩者基因和
against the development of inflammation, diabetes,
蛋白調節水平的具體研究，因此對 CT 抗原的功能
and
研究有助於了解兩者的共性。本課題組擬運用精子
adiponectin
功能研究平台，開展這部分蛋白與精子功能及生殖
cardiovascular
疾病相關的研究，不僅可以拓展補充 CT 抗原數據
understanding of adiponectin signaling network
庫，有助於闡述腫瘤發生以配子發育之間的共性，
among adipocytes, insulin sensitive tissue and
同時也能更深入闡明精子功能。
vascular function should lead to novel strategies for
(MD06646)
the early intervention and treatment of obesity,
well
and
cardiovascular
recognized,
levels
of
however
atherosclerosis.
may
Thus,
serve
risk
The relationship
the
adiponectin,
insulin-sensitizing
as
function.
molecular
a
recently
hormone
secreted
Recent studies
adipocyte-derived
another
biomarker.
diabetes and related vascular complications.
useful
Better
This
Adiponectin and Periadventitial Regulation of
project is directed at understanding the role of
Arterial Tone
abdominal fat in the development of chronic vascular
disease and will lead to the development of the novel
 HUANG Yu

WONG Jack*

concept that periadventitial adipocytes play a role in
LEUNG Fung
vascular dysfunction.
Ping  WONG Christine*  LAU Chi Wai
Along with changes in
endothelial function, this may be responsible for the
 29 June 2007
increased cardiovascular risk in obesity, diabetes, and
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
hypertension.
Grants)
This proposed study will primarily
focus on the role of adipocyte-derived adiponectin as
Obesity, especially central obesity, is the most
an important paracrine regulator of vascular tone.
common nutritional disorder in industrial countries
The results will offer unique insights into the
and it is associated with increased cardiovascular
mechanisms by which abdominal obesity is one of
morbidity and mortality mainly through insulin
the leading risk factors for chronic vascular disease
resistance. Adipose tissue secretes many endocrine
and hypertension.
373
Abnormalities in the responses
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Physiology
of both conduit and resistance vessels to adiponectin
treatment and might also lead to novel therapeutic
in obesity and diabetes will be investigated by
approaches to improve the clinic treatment of PD
studying the regulation of vascular reactivity using
patients.
well-established mouse models of obesity and
(MD06770)
diabetes.
(MD06483)
Investigation of Cell-Specific Functions of the
Clear Cells in the Epididymis in Relation to Acid
Effects of L-DOPA on DMT1-Mediated Iron
Secretion
Uptake by Neurons
 WONG Patrick Yee Ding
 KE Ya
 1 August 2006
 30 June 2007
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
It has been known for a long time that the fluid inside
Grants)
the epididymis of many species including man has a
The mechanisms of the neurotoxicity caused by
very different composition compared to blood plasma.
L-DOPA treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD) are
The Na+ concentration decreases but that of K+
unknown although L-DOPA is still the most effective
increases as the fluid flows through the epididymal
treatment for PD currently. Recently, we found that
tubule. At the same time, the H+ ion concentration
treatment of C6 cells with L-DOPA induced a
rises (pH decreases). An acid environment inside the
significant increase in DMTl(-IRE) expression and
epididymis is thought to prevent premature activation
ferrous uptake.
Based on this finding and other
of the biochemical events that lead to fertilization and
available data, we therefore hypothesized that
is therefore crucial in maintaining spermatozoa in a
changes in brain iron metabolism induced by
viable state during storage.
Understanding the
L-DOPA might be partly associated with the
mechanisms
secretion
L-DOPA induced-neurotoxicity.
epididymis has far-reaching implications for human
To confirm this hypothesis, a detailed analysis on the
reproduction. To date, our knowledge of the causes
relationship between L-DOPA and iron transport in
of male infertility is scanty.
neurons in vitro and in vivo is necessary.
abnormal pH of the epididymal fluid caused by
As the
underlying
the
the
It is possible that
genetic
to determine whether L-DOPA can significantly
environmental factors may have a role to play in some
increase in the expression of DMT1(-IRE) and
forms of unexplained infertility.
DMTl-mediated iron uptake in neuronal cells in vitro.
processes by which acid is secreted into the lumen of
To my knowledge, the proposed study is the first
the epididymis could help devise ways to treat
investigation on the relationship of L-DOPA with
infertility caused by abnormal acid-base transport in the
DMT1 expression and iron transport in neurons.
epididymis. The other side of the coin is that it may
The study will provide a key insight into
prove possible to interfere with acid secretion as a
understanding the pathophysiological relevance of
novel way to interfere with fertility. In this project,
iron metabolism for toxicity during L-DOPA
we propose to take a novel approach by isolating clear
374
of
by
first step, experiments in this project will be designed
Faculty of Medicine
mutations
acid
requisite
genes
or
Unraveling the
Dept of Physiology
cells (cells responsible for acid secretion) from the rat
CNGA2 in the endothelium-dependent vascular
epididymis and applying electrophysiology and
dilation in response to cAMP-elevating agents. This
cellular physiology techniques on them with a view to
proposal aims at clarifying the functional role of
understand
and
CNGA2 channels in endothelial cell Ca2+ influx as
the
well as endothelium-dependent vascular dilatation in
the
physiological
underlying
control
of
mechanisms
acidification
of
epididymal fluid.
response to cAMP-elevating agonists.
The results
(CU06525)
from this study should provide novel information of
how CNGA2 and its related signal cascade contribute
Functional
Role
of
Cyclic
to the control of endothelium-dependent vascular
Nucleotide-Gated
CNGA2 Channels in cAMP-Regulated Ca2+
function.
Influx in Endothelial Cells
(CU06526)
 YAO Xiaoqiang
Possible Role of Polycystin 1 and Polycystin 2 in

KUNG Hsiang Fu (Stanley
Ho CEID)
Flow-Induced Vascular Dilation
 1 January 2007
 YAO Xiaoqiang
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
 1 March 2007
cAMP-elevating agonists have diverse effect on
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
endothelium-dependent vascular functions such as
Grants)
vascular tone control, vascular wall remodeling,
vascular cell proliferation and vascular permeability
The
regulation. At least in some cases, the effect of these
endothelial cells to release nitric oxide (NO),
2+
hemodynamic
force
stimulates
vascular
agonists depends on Ca influx into endothelial cells.
endothelium-derived hyperpolarization factor (EDHF)
We have previously found the expression of a cyclic
and prostacyclin (PGI2). These factors then act on
nucleotide-gated channel CNGA2 in human vascular
the
endothelial cells in situ and in mouse heart microvessel
vasodilatation and thus lowering blood pressure. Up
endothelial H5V cells in culture. Functional studies
to the present, however, the mechanism of how flow
indicate that CNGA2 mediates endothelial cell Ca2+
leads to the vasodilatation is still unsettled.
influx in response to 8-BrcAMP, adenosine and
Interestingly, Recent studies from the principal
adrenaline. These results suggest a general role of
investigator’s lab strongly suggest that flow may
CNGA2
functions
induce dilatation in a Ca2+-dependent manner.
In this
These results provide a new mechanistic clue as to
proposal, we plan to dissect the signal transduction
how flow could lead to vascular dilatation, because a
pathway of how adenosine and β-adrenergic agonists
rise in endothelial cytosolic Ca2+ is expected to
lead to the activation of CNGA2 channels. We will
stimulate the activity of endothelial nitric oxide
also determine whether CNGA2 may contribute to
synthase (eNOS) and phospholipase A2 (PLA2), two
in
endothelium-dependent
associated with cAMP-elevating agents.
2+
endothelial Ca
influx in response to two other
underlying
key enzymes
smooth
muscle
cells,
causing
that control the production of
cAMP-elevating agents CGRP and adrenomedullin.
endothelium-derived vasodilatory agents including
Furthermore, we will explore the possible role of
NO, PGI2 and EDHF (Busse et al. 2003). In this
375
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Physiology
proposal, we will explore whether polycystin
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
2+
l-polycystin2 complex mediate flow-induced Ca
for more details of the following ongoing research
influx
at the department:
and
subsequent
vascular
dilation.
Identification of the molecules responsible for
flow-induced Ca2+ influx should provide biochemists
Edition
Title/Investigators
and pharmacologists with a real molecule to target
against hypertensive diseases
2003-04 Investigation of the Role of a Novel
(MD06941)
Epididymis-Specific Gene, Bin-1b, in
Sperm Maturation (CU03365)
Mechanisms
Underlying
Late-phase
Long-Term
the
Regulation
Potentiation
of
 CHAN Hsiao Chang
by

ZHANG
Yong Lian*
Brian-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
2005-06 Effects
of
an
Epididymis-Specific
 YUNG Wing Ho  PANG Petti*
Defensin, Bin1b, on Sperm Fertilizing
 1 October 2006
Capacity in vitro and in vivo (CU05534)
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
 CHAN Hsiao Chang
The ability to memorize is arguably one of the most
important functions of the brain.
2004-05 Effects of Selective Estrogen Receptor
Long-term
Modulators
on
Coronary
Artery
memory is believed to be mediated by the protein
Reactivity
synthesis-dependent cellular phenomenon known as
Ovariectomized Rabbits (CU04362)
late-phase long-term potentiation (L-LTP).
 HUANG Yu
Our
in
Cholesterol-Fed,

VANHOUTTE Paul
recent studies provided evidence that brain-derived
Michel Georges*
neurotropic factor (BDNF) is a key or the only

protein synthesis product required for L-LTP
(Science))

YAO Xiaoqiang
CHEN Zhenyu (Biochemistry
expression. Paralleling the reports that there are two
temporally
distinct
stages
in
the
2005-06 Cardiovascular
Research
Programme
hippocampus-dependent long-term memory, here we
(Basic Division) (MD05313)
hypothesize that L-LTP can be divided into two
 HUANG Yu

YAO Xiaoqiang

stages: an induction stage and a maintenance stage.
CHEN
Zhenyu
Both stages require BDNF, but are mediated by
(Science))

different BDNF signaling downstream pathways.
(Anatomy)
Results of the present study will unveil the molecular
(Stanley Ho CEID)
basis of two temporally distinct stages in L-LTP,
Hung
which is critical in understanding the mechanism of
(Pharmacology)

LAM Fu Yuen
different stages in long-term memory formation.
(Pharmacology)

HE Guo Wei
(CU06527)
(Surgery)  WAN Song (Surgery)
Faculty of Medicine
376

(Biochemistry
CHAN Leung Franky
KUNG Hsiang Fu

KWAN

KO Wing
Yiu
Wa
Dept of Physiology
2005-06 Raloxifene Modulation of Myogenic
2005-06 The Pancreatic Islet Renin-angiotensin
Tone and Flow-dependent Vasodilatation
System and Beta Cell Dysfunction
in Rat Resistance Vessels (MD05825)
(CU05537)
 HUANG Yu  HENRION Daniel*
 LEUNG Po Sing

KWOK Ming
Yao*  Hugh MONTGOMERY*
2005-06 Role of Adipose-Derived Vasoactive
Products
in
Vascular
Dysfunction
2005-06 Involvement
of
the
local
(MD05842)
Renin-angiotensin System in control of
 HUANG Yu  GOLLASCH Maik*
enterocyte fluid and glucose uptake
(MD05331)
 LEUNG Po Sing  ES Debnam*
2004-05 Protective Role of Blockade of the
Renin-Angiotensin System with Losartan
on Pancreatic b-cell Function and Repair
2005-06 Microenvironment
Approach
to
and its Relationships with Oxidative
Enhancing
Stress in Impaired Glucose Tolerance and
Maturation of Pancreatic Stem Cells into
Type 2 Diabetes (MD04976)
Insulin-Producing Beta Cells (MD05860)
 LEUNG Po Sing
 LEUNG Po Sing
Ngor
CHAN Chung

Juliana
(Medicine
2004-05 Regulation
Channels
of
the
Renin-Angiotensin
of
TRPC3
by
Protein
and
TRPC6
Kinase
G
Phosphorylation (CU04366)
Pancreatic
System:
and
&
Therapeutics)
2004-05 Inhibition
Differentiation
 YAO Xiaoqiang
Its
Regulatory Mechanism for Pancreatic

CHAN Tak Wah
Dominic (Chemistry)
Microcirculation, Oxidative Stress and
Cytokine-Mediated
Inflammatory
2005-06 Flow-Induced Endothelial Production of
Response in Pancreatitis (CU04364)
H2O2 and Its Relationship with Ca2+
 LEUNG Po Sing  IP Siu Po (School
Influx in Endothelial Cells (MD05415)
 YAO Xiaoqiang
of Chinese Medicine)
2004-05 Evaluation
of
Potential
2003-04 The Neurotrophic Action of Secretin in
Synergistic
Effects of Valsartan Combined with
the Developing Cerebellum (MD03619)
GLP-1 or LAF237 on Pancreatic Islet
 YUNG Wing Ho
Function,
Endothelial
Function
and
Shing*
Glucose Tolerance in Type-2 Diabetes


CHAN Ying
CHOW K C Billy*

WANG Jian Jun*
Mellitus (MD04711)
 LEUNG Po Sing

2005-06 Mechanisms Underlying the Regulation
CARLSSON
of Late-Phase Long-Term Potentiation by
Per-Ola*
Brain-Derived
Neurotrophic
Factor
(MD05834)
377
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Physiology
 YUNG Wing Ho
Faculty of Medicine
378
Dept of Psychiatry
Is the Hippocampal Volume an Independent
RESEARCH PROJECTS
Predictor of Delayed Dementia Following an
Ischemic
Mood
and
Somatic
Conditions:
A
Prospective
Magnetic
Resonance Imaging Study
Psychometric Analysis of Neurasthenia and Its
Related
Stroke?
A
 TANG Wai Kwong
Comparative Study on Chinese in Different

LAM Chiu Wa

WONG
Ka Sing Lawrence (Medicine & Therapeutics)
Cultural Settings

LAM Wai Man Wynnie (Diagnostic Radiology
 CHIU Fung Kum Helen

& Organ Imaging)
WONG Kit Ching
(Psychology)  YIP Siu Fai Paul*
 1 January 2007
 1 July 2006
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
 The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South
Dementia affects 7% of the general population older
University
than 65 (Lobo et al. 2000).
Vascular dementia
The present study aims to investigate the construct of
(VAD) is the second largest cause of dementia
neurasthenia, a clinical syndrome of mental fatigue
worldwide and may be the commonest cause of
and exhaustion, in different cultural settings, by way
dementia
of psychometric and clinical approach. It seeks to
Poststroke dementia (PSD) is one example of VAD,
identify the distinctive characteristics of neurasthenia,
which occurs in up to a third of stroke survivors
as well as its relationship with other related mood and
(O'Brien et al. 2003).
somatic conditions.
Medial temporal lobe consists of parahippocampal
A battery of self-report
in
Asian
populations
(Chen
2004).
measures and a newly developed Neurasthenia Scale
gyrus and hippocampus.
will be used for comparison between Chinese and
atrophy (MTLA) is strongly associated with VAD.
Western adults in three different cultural settings,
The aim of our study is to evaluate if hippocampal
namely Hong Kong SAR, Mainland China and
volume (HC) predict the development of dPSD in
Australia. Participants will be adults who are living
700 local Chinese patients with first or recurrent
in the community, parents of Chinese school students,
stroke who receive treatment in the Acute Stroke Unit
or participants of public lectures.
of the Prince of Wales Hospital over 24 months.
They will be
Medical temporal lobe
A
asked to complete a set of questionnaires with a total
magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) examination
of 7 scales and a cover sheet on personal information.
will be performed within the first 7 days admission.
Descriptive and inferential statistics will be applied
A radiologist, who is blind to the psychiatric
for
diagnosis, will measure the HC.
examining
the
sample
characteristics
comparison of group differences.
and
assistant
Factor analyses
will
administer
detailed
A research
cognitive
for ascertaining the validity and reliability for applied
examination and a psychiatrist will diagnose PSD
scales and measures will also be conducted.
three months after the index stroke, then annually.
(MD06893)
The HC will be compared between patients with and
without dPSD.
In addition, other putative risk
factors for dPSD will be examined.
(CU06529)
379
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Psychiatry
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
A Pilot Study on the 5-Hydroxytryptamine 1A
for more details of the following ongoing research
Receptor Gene Polymorphism in Post-Stroke
at the department:
Fatigue
Edition
 TANG Wai Kwong
TANG Leung Sang

Nelson (Chemical Pathology)

WONG Ka Sing
Lawrence (Medicine & Therapeutics)

2005-06 Cerebrovascular
LAM

Risk
Factors
and
Late-Life Suicide (MD05630)
Wai Man Wynnie (Diagnostic Radiology &
Organ Imaging)
Title/Investigators
 CHAN Sau Man Sandra
MOK Chung Tong Vincent
Fung Kum Helen
(Medicine & Therapeutics)

CHIU
LEE Wai Chi

Edwin*
 30 June 2007
2004-05 To Establish a Functional Enhancement
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Program
Grants)
for
the
Improvement
of
Emotional and Functional Well Beings of
Poststroke fatigue (PSF) is a common distressing
Demented Elders (MD04494)
condition among stroke survivors and it adversely
 LAM Chiu Wa
affects their quality of life. Serotonin dysfunction is
Victor*
found
KO Flora*
in
patients
with
chronic
fatigue.
5-Hydroxytryptamine 1A receptor plays an important

LUI Wing Cheong

CHAN Sau Man Sandra

LEUNG Pui Yiu

Vivian*
role in the regulation of serotonin activity in the brain.
Hence the 5HT1A gene may be influential in PSF.
2004-05 Diffusion Weighted Magnetic Resonance
The effect of this gene on the risk of developing PSF is
Imaging Correlates of Depression after
unknown.
Acute
The objective of this study is to examine the role of the
Population (CU04369)
5HT1A
 TANG Wai Kwong
gene
variants
(polymorphisms)
the
Ischemic
Stroke
in

Chinese
WONG Ka
development of PSF in a group of stroke survivors.
Sing
Three hundred Chinese patients with stroke will be
Therapeutics)
evaluated. Three months after their index stroke, a
Wynnie (Diagnostic Radiology &
psychiatrist will assess PSF. Blood samples will be
Organ Imaging)
collected and different variants of 5HT1A gene will
Sandor
Lawrence


(Medicine
&
LAM Wai Man
UNGVARI Gabor
be analysed. In addition, a host of demographic,
clinical and brain imaging characteristics will be
2004-05 Emotional
Incontinence
in
Stroke:
collected. The distribution of the variants of genes in
Testing the Prefrontal Cortex Hypothesis
patients with and without PSF will be compared, after
(MD04988)
controlling the possible confounding variables.
 TANG Wai Kwong
(MD06316)

CHAN Sui
Yin Agnes (Psychology)

WONG
Ka Sing Lawrence (Medicine &
Faculty of Medicine
380
Dept of Psychiatry
Therapeutics)

2005-06 Mental Health Impact of SARS to
LAM Wai Man
Wynnie (Diagnostic Radiology &
Patients:
Organ Imaging)
(MD05335)

UNGVARI Gabor
A
Prospective
 WING Yun Kwok
Sandor
Study
LEUNG Chi

Ming
2005-06 The "Hidden Client" - Carers of Patients
with
Pneumoconiosis:
Psychiatric
2005-06 A 3-Month Epidemiological Study to
Morbidity, Quality of Life, Burden of
Establish
Care and Service Needs (MD05947)
Patients with Acute Major Depressive
 TANG Wai Kwong
Disorder (MD05503)

UNGVARI
Characteristics
 WING Yun Kwok
Gabor Sandor

of
Asian
KWONG Wai
Man*  FONG Yat Yuk Samson
381
Faculty of Medicine
School of Public Health
round postal Delphi survey amongst Chinese and
RESEARCH PROJECTS
western healthcare professionals will be conducted to
achieve a consensus based policy framework for
Self Management and the Role of Pharmacists in
self-management.
Developing an Effective Primary Care System :
Outcome:
Developing a Consensus Based Policy Framework
1.
Updated, sequential analysis of self management
and medication prevalence amongst Hong Kong
 YEOH Eng Kiong

(Community and Family Medicine)
Chi Ho*
Cindy*


population;
GRIFFITHS Sian Meryl
(School of Pharmacy)

2.
CHUNG
Attitudes of primary care doctors and pharmacists
LAM Lo Kuen
in both Chinese and western medical professions
YOU Hoi Sze Joyce
towards effective patient self management and
LAU Chun Hong
LI Donald*



development of the role of pharmacists;
MERCER Stewart

3. Attitudes of the public towards self management
LAM Tai Pong*  CHAN Wan Kin (Community
and the proposal of the roles of pharmacists in
and Family Medicine)
primary care; and
William (Community and Family Medicine)
4.
 1 June 2007
framework for developing self management in
 Food and Health Bureau - Studies in Health
primary care, for chronic non communicable
Services
diseases.
Objective: To develop a consensus based policy
framework
A consensus based, locally relevant policy
for
self-management
of
(MD06405)
chronic
non-communicable diseases in primary care.
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
Design: The study will include both quantitative and
for more details of the following ongoing research
qualitative elements. Firstly, the current practice of
at the department:
self-medication amongst Hong Kong population will
be described by analyzing data from Thematic
Edition
Title/Investigators
Household Surveys (THS), which are census scale
datasets including self medication pattern and other
2003-04 Promotion of Evidence Based Nursing
factors like health status and pattern of health service
Practice (MD03828)
utilization.
 THOMPSON
The analysis will be used as the basis of
Chun
Robert
focus group discussion amongst Chinese and western
CHAU
medicine profession.
Nethersole School of Nursing)
Findings from the focus groups
Pak
David
Janita

(The
as well as those from the THS will guide questionnaire
construction of a population based telephone survey,
2003-04 A Longitudinal Cohort Study of Burnout
which will be utilized to explore the acceptability and
and
attitude towards pharmacist led self-management using
(MD03934)
western and Chinese medicines among Hong Kong
 THOMPSON
population. From the inputs of these studies, a two
Faculty of Medicine
382
Attrition
in
Nursing
David
Students
Robert
WATSON Roger*  DEARY Ian*

Centre for Epidemiology & Biostatistics
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  CHAN Shuk Yee*  CUI
RESEARCH PROJECTS
Tong
Kui*

MAK
Wing
Sze
Winnie
(Psychology)  TSUI Hi Yi
The Follow-Up Related Study of HIV Infected
 1 August 2006
Cases in Shenzhen City in Mainland China
 National Research Institute for Family Planning
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  SU Xiaoyou  GU Jing 
A significant number of HIV infections in China are
TSUI Hi Yi
attributed to commercial plasma donation in Henan, a
 6 July 2006
province in central China, ranks second in the total
number of reported HIV cases.
 Shenzhen Centre for Disease Control and
It is known that people living with HIV/AIDS
Prevention
(PLWHA) are more stressed, have more mental
HIV infected people go through a series of episode
health problems and low quality of life than healthy
after
people. It is necessary to provide timely assessment
being
informed
about
HIV
serostatus.
According to the previous studies, factors related to
and psychological support services to them.
dropout during follow up for medical counselling
Based on empirical evidence of the study on PLWHA
among
include
who were infected by injecting dug or sexual
support,
transmission, we assume that mental health of
HIV
infected
stigma/discrimination,
lack
people
of
social
intravenous drug use etc.
PLWHA who were former plasma donors (FPD) is
The present study aims to identify factors related to
important, alongside with medical treatment and
whether returning for CD4 test among the HIV newly
behavioral intervention. The study subjects of our
confirmed people.
study are FPDs and their family members in Henan
The study will be conducted
from July 2006 to December 2007 in Shenzhen in
province.
collaboration with the Shenzhen CDC.
The objectives of our study include:
The study population comprises newly confirmed
1.
To investigate the mental health status (e.g.
HIV cases who are, for the first time, obtaining the
quality of life, depression, post-traumatic growth,
confirmative result of their HTV status from
etc.);
2.
Guangzhou CDC (or district CDC) and Shenzhen
To investigate factors that are associated with
CDC (or district CDC). The questionnaire will be
mental health status (attribution of causes of
anonymous.
diseases,
Specially trained health care workers will seek
discrimination, treatment);
3.
informed consent from the respondents, administer
household
structure,
perceived
To explore the resilience of PLWHA and their
the questionnaires and engage in the follow up work.
family, as well as to identify vulnerable people
(SS06668)
with low level of resilience;
4.
To investigate relationships between mental
A Study on Mental Health and Care in AIDS
health and resilience in these PLWHA and their
Families in Shanghai, Henan, China
family members;
5.
To assess the needs for psychological support
services of PLWHA; and
383
Faculty of Medicine
Centre for Epidemiology & Biostatistics
6.
To conduct a randomized control study to
A Study of HIV-Related Prevention and Control
evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention for
in Hengyang, China
promoting resilience and mental health.
(SS06392)
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  SU Xiaoyou
 30 September 2006
Review on Students’ Progress after Completing
the
Three-Year
Understanding
Intensive
Adolescent
Program
Project
of
 Hunan Centre for Disease Control and
the
Prevention
(Primary)
Hengyang has the highest HIV prevalence among all
(2004/05 to 2006/07)
cities in Hunan province, China, and since year 2005
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  LAU Man Chun Mason
HIV-related interventions launched in Hengyang.
 1 September 2006
This study aims to deeply understand HIV-related
high risk behaviors and psychological status among
 Education and Manpower Bureau, HKSAR
HIV-related high risk populations and people living
Government
with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA), to prevent HIV
The main purpose of this exercise is to review the
transmission from the source population into the
progress on the students who joined the three-year
general population, and to evaluate the effectiveness
Intensive Program of the Understanding Adolescent
of MMT and NEP services in HIV prevention.
Project (Primary) in around 134 UAP schools for the
The study consists of four different parts: study of
2004/05 - Primary 4 students cohort. The baseline
HIV-related high risk behaviors among male and
measurement was collected when the screening
female
process conducted from September to December
evaluating methadone maintenance treatment (MMT)
2004. They were randomly assigned into 5 clusters
services, evaluation of the effectiveness of Needle
(Family
Anger
Exchange Program (NEP), and stress, coping and
Management, Goal setting & problem solving and
psychosocial problems among PLWHA in Hengyang.
Self-esteem & behavioral indicators).
The total study will be conducted from Sept. 2006 to
expressiveness,
Optimism,
Questions
injecting
drug
users,
monitoring
and
related to the specify aim of each cluster were asked.
May 2009 in collaboration with Hunan CDC.
To review the students' progress, a follow-up data
The study populations will include male and female
collection will be conducted for this cohort when
injecting drug users who also have risky sexual
these students are in primary 6 in 2006/07 school
behaviors, MMT users, NEP users, and PLWHA.
year.
All target populations will be reached by help of
The changes of individual students could be
traced to see whether improvements have been made
peers and CDC heath workers.
after the Intensive Program.
A statistical report on
interviews will be used to collect data and all
the program effectiveness results in all participated
questionnaires are anonymous. Special training will
schools joining this exercise will be submitted to
help investigators to understand the purpose,
EMB in October 2007.
background and data collection procedures of the
(ED06704)
study. The participation in the study is completely
voluntary.
(SS06635)
Faculty of Medicine
384
Face to face
Centre for Epidemiology & Biostatistics
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph

TSUI Hi Yi
LAU Man

Chun Mason
Research on Evaluation of the Smoking (Public
Health) (Amendment) Bill 2005
 1 February 2007
 Department of Health, Hong Kong SAR
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  LAU Man Chun Mason 
The present study aims to obtain surveillance data on
CHAN Mei Wah (School of Public Health)
sexually transmitted diseases (STD) from the private
 1 October 2006
sectors.
 Tobacco Control Office, Department of Health
Currently, these data are- very limited.
The study includes 3 strata of doctors in the private
To evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of the
sectors in Hong Kong. These include dermatologists,
new indoor anti-smoking law which became effectine
special doctors in obstetrics and gynaecology (O&G),
from January 1st 2007, the Tabacco Control Office,
and general practitioners (GP).
Department of Health commissioned the Centre for
doctors are invited to join the study. With informed
Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public
consent, they provide information on the distributions
Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University
of STD/reproductive tract infections (RTI) or
of Hong Kong to conduct a series of evulation surveys
suspected STD/RTI cases that they are taking care of
before and after the enactment of the law.
during the same 14-day study period.
A total of 4 cross-sectional anonymous random
sample sizes for these 3 strata respectively are all
telephone surveys will be conducted. These include:
registered dermatologists, 100 O&G doctors, and 300
(1) Stage I (Pre-study) - a baseline evaluation survey
GP in Hong Kong.
before the enactment of the Amendment Bill; (2)
(MD06564)
These private
The target
Stage II (Post-study 3) - the first evaluation survey at
3 months after the extension of statutory no smoking
The
areas; (3) Stage III (Post-study 9) - the second
Cognitive-Behavioral
evaluation survey at 9 months after the extension of
HIV Intervention Prevention Trials for At-risk
statutory no smoking areas; and (4) Stage IV
Monogamous Chinese Women Attending Public
(Post-study 12) - the third evaluation survey at 12
STD Clinics in Hong Kong
Implementation
and
Evaluation
Randomized
of
a
Controlled
months after the extension of statutory no smoking
areas.
The
study
population
comprises
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph
all

TSUI Hi Yi

YIP Ying
Chi (Paediatrics)
Cantonese-speaking Hong Kong males and females
aged between 15 and 69 residing in Hong Kong. A
 1 March 2007
random sample of about 1,000 respondents will be
 Council for the AIDS Trust Fund
recruited for each of the 4 telephone interviews.
(MD06831)
The present study aims to develop and evaluate a
cognitive-behavioral based HIV/STD intervention
Provision of Research on the Pattern of Sexually
program targeting women (with a single sex
Transmitted Diseases in People Seeking Care in
partner only) attending public STD clinics in Hong
the Private Sectors for Social Hygiene Service
Kong for medical consultation.
385
This is a
Faculty of Medicine
Centre for Epidemiology & Biostatistics
randomized controlled trial study.
improve the mental health status of people living with
It will be
commenced in March 2007.
HIV/AIDS.
The target sample size is around 250 women
This study will be conducted in Shenzhen city
seeking medical care for STD from the public STD
collaborating with Shenzhen CDC in mainland China.
clinics.
With informed consent, they will be
The study includes 3 parts: The first part is to develop
randomized into 2 groups: the Intervention group
and validate a HIV/AIDS stressor scale specific for
(receiving both the intervention program and
Chinese
standard-of-care) and the Control group (receiving
HIV/AIDS infected subjects will be interviewed and
the standard-of-care only).
complete a questionnaire under the administration of
The primary outcome of the study is condom use
Health care workers.
with the single sex partner. Secondary outcomes
-sectional study involved 200 people to study the
include
and
stress, coping and psychosocial problems among this
be
population. The third part is to conduct a follow up
administered at baseline and at the end of the
study among the previous approved project on newly
intervention program.
confirmed HIV/AIDS people and implement a small
HIV/STD-related
perceptions,
etc.
knowledge
Measurements
will
people
living
with
HIV/AIDS,
180
The second part is a cross
scale intervention on 20 subjects.
(MD06739)
(SS06543)
Psychosocial Problems and Intervention Study
Among People Living with HIV/AIDs in Mainland
Provision of Influenza Vaccination Coverage and
China
Self-reported Reasons for not Receiving Influenza
Vaccination among Different Groups of Hong
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph

MAK Wing Sze Winnie
Kong Community
(Psychology)  SU Xiaoyou
 1 March 2007
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  TSUI Hi Yi
 Shenzhen Centre for Disease Control and
 6 March 2007
 Centre for Health Protection, Department of
Prevention
Health, HKSAR Government
People living with HIV/AIDS face numerous stressor
during their daily life after they know their
The study aims to obtain data on the coverage of
HIV/AIDS infection, including concerns about
influenza vaccination and relevant information from
physical health, stigma, employment, sexual life etc.
selected populations of the Hong Kong community,
These stressors may play a very important role during
who have been recommended by the Scientific
the course of adaptational adjustment.
If the
Committee on Vaccine Preventable Diseases, Centre
subjects can cope the situation appropriately, he/she
for Health Protection to receive influenza vaccination.
can have a better mental health.
Therefore, to
These include: a) community-dwelling elderly aged
understand stressors HIV/AIDS infected people
65 or above; b) the general population aged 2 to 64; c)
confronted is the utmost important thing for the
persons with chronic diseases; d) pregnant women in
health care workers to provide further intervention to
their 2nd or 3rd trimester; and e) children aged 6 to 23
months. A total of 5 survey studies were conducted
Faculty of Medicine
386
Centre for Epidemiology & Biostatistics
to achieve these purposes.
 1 April 2007
Telephone interviews
were conducted for the first 3 populations, and the
 Health Care & Promotion Fund
target sample sizes respectively for these 3 surveys
were 1,000, 1,000, and 700. Face-to-face interviews
Although physical activity is recommended for
were conducted for the other 2 populations, and the
management of diabetes, 60 percent of the diabetes
respective target sample sizes were both 400 and 400.
patients were found to not performing adequately,
Anonymous structured questionnaire will be used to
thus not receiving the benefits from physical activity,
collect data. These 5 surveys were conducted from
which includes better glycaemic control, decrease
April through June 2006.
insulin resistance, weight loss, visceral body fat
(MD06558)
reduction, etc. Currently, the advices that are given
out to the diabetics are very general without attending
Accessing MSM through Social Network – the
to individual patient’s needs. Moreover, the nursing
Application of Respondent – Driven Sampling
staffs might not be trained in proper motivational
Method to Compare Characteristics and Service
skills, which make individual advice ineffective.
Needs of MSM Who are and are not Venue-Based
Counselling by trained health educator over a
telephone was found to be effective in facilitating
increase of physical activity in a variety of
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  TSUI Hi Yi
populations in oversea studies. However, the health
 1 April 2007
educators need to be monitored by senior staff to
 Council for the AIDS Trust Fund
ensure consistency and quality.
Moreover, the
The present study uses the Respondent-Driven
service cannot be easily expanded to accommodate
Sampling method to recruit men who have sex with
increase demand for the service since that involves
men (MSM) respondents.
It aims to examine
considerable costs to hire and train more staffs.
HIV-related behaviors and service needs of MSM
Therefore, a more cost-effective way to deliver
recruited from this sampling method and to compare
quality behavioural modification to patients is needed.
these characteristics with those of the MSM recruited
TLC-PA
from venues.
fully-computerized, telephone counselling system to
(MD06318)
deliver individualized advice to increase physical
is
a
cost-effective,
automated,
activity to the WHO-recommended level (three or
Application of a Cost-Effective, Computer-Based,
more days per week of moderate-intensity physical
Telephone-Counselling
activity for at least 30 minutes per day).
System
to
Increase
The
program is based on established psychological
Physical Activity in Diabetes in Hong Kong
theories to achieve behavioural change. This project
FRIEDMAN Robert H.*
aims to adopt, adapt, and deploy the TLC-PA system
CHAN Chung Ngor Juliana (Medicine &
in Hong Kong for the diabetics at the Diabetes and
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph

Therapeutics)


Endocrine Centre at the Prince of Wales Hospital.
CHOW Chun Chung Francis
(Medicine & Therapeutics)
Winnie (Psychology)


(MD06334)
MAK Wing Sze
MUI, LANCELOT WAI
HO (School of Public Health)
387
Faculty of Medicine
Centre for Epidemiology & Biostatistics
Evaluation of the “Do it Safely” MSM HIV
Cross-border HIV risk behaviors among Hong Kong
Prevention Campaign
men who have sex with men (MSM) has been of
increasing concern.
The present study aims to
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  TSUI Hi Yi
investigate the pattern of sexual activities and
 1 April 2007
HIV-related behaviors/attitudes of Hong Kong MSM
in Shenzhen. Relevant data on HIV-related behaviors
 Department of Health, Hong Kong SAR
and attitudes will also be collected from MSM in
During August 2006 through April 2007, the Special
Shenzhen who reported to have served Hong Kong
Preventive Programme of the Department of Health
MSM. Anonymous structured questionnaires will be
has launched a “Do it Safely” MSM HIV Prevention
designed to collect data.
Campaign with a series of HIV-related prevention
(MD06975)
activities targeting local MSM (men who have sex
with men). The present study aims to investigate
Training and Technical Support of the Hong
the prevalence of MSM respondents being exposed to
Kong Student Information Form under the
these prevention activities in the Campaign, assess
Understanding
their perceived acceptance and effectiveness of these
2007/08
Adolescent
Project
(Primary)
activities and solicit their views on HIV-related risk
communications.
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  LAU Man Chun Mason
The study population includes
Hong Kong Chinese males who self-reported having
 1 May 2007
had sex with another man. Survey respondents will
 Education and Manpower Bureau, HKSAR
be recruited via outreach services in local gay
Government
establishments (e.g., bars, saunas) and via internet as
well. The target sample size would be around 300
The main purposes of this exercise are to report the
from venues and 150 from the internet.
An
screening results in the UAP schools for the 2007/08
anonymous structured questionnaire is used to collect
- Primary 4 students cohort under the Understanding
data.
The study will be conducted from around
Adolescent Project (primary) (UAP), to conduct one
April to October 2007. The study is commissioned
2-hour training session for school personnel on the
by the Special Preventive Programme, Department of
operation of the CD-ROM of HKSIF in May 2007.
Health.
The training sessions will include demonstration,
(MD06547)
practical exercises and question & answer period to
strengthen the users’ understanding on the operation
Cross-border HIV Related Behaviors Among
of the CD-ROM of HKSIF and to provide telephone
MSM from Hong Kong and the Male Sex Workers
help desk service or on-site technical support if
Serving Hong Kong MSM Clients
necessary to all UAP schools from 1 June 2007 to 30
June 2007 and from 1 September 2007 to 31
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  TSUI Hi Yi
December 2007.
 1 April 2007
(MD06894)
 Council for the AIDS Trust Fund
Faculty of Medicine
388
Centre for Epidemiology & Biostatistics
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph
Behavioural Surveillance Surveys of the Male
Clients of Female Sex Workers (FSW) Population
Hee
(Community
in Hong Kong
Medicine)

KIM Jean
and
Family
2003-04 Clinical Data Management and Medical
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  TSUI Hi Yi
Statistics Functions for CK Life Sciences
 1 August 2007
Development Inc. (MD03532)
 Council for the AIDS Trust Fund
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph
The present 3-year study is a continuation of a series
of HIV behavioral surveillance surveys among the
2005-06 Sexual Dysfunction and Sterility Among
male clients of female sex workers population in
Married Couples Living in Shenzhen
Hong Kong since year 1998. It aims to keep track
(SS05673)
of changes, if any, in HIV-related behaviors and
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  TSUI Hi Yi 
SU Xiaoyou
attitudes among the studied population and to
examine factors associated with such behaviors.
Anonymous telephone interview, using a structured
2005-06 Program Enhancement of CD-ROM and
questionnaire, will be conducted to collect data. A
the Screening Exercise of the HKSIF
total of 3 surveys will be carried out annually from
2006/07 Understanding the Adolescent
2007 to2010. In each round of the 3 surveys, about
Project (Primary) (ED05848)
2,000 Hong Kong Chinese male adults aged 18-60
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph

LAU Man
Chun Mason
will be randomly sampled from the male general
population and be interviewed by a specially designed
2005-06 Epidemiology
interactive computerized data collection method.
of
Influenza/Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) in
(MD06353)
Hong
Kong
Community
(06/07)
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
(SS05616)
for more details of the following ongoing research
 LAU Tak Fai Joseph  TSUI Hi Yi 
CHAN Mei Wah (School of Public
at the department:
Health)
Edition
Title/Investigators
2002-03 Surveillance and Intervention Research
for Different Communities in Hong Kong
(MD02369)
389
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Surgery
1-day screening period, up to 2 weeks of receiving
RESEARCH PROJECTS
the study medication, and a final visit with the study
doctor 10-28 days after their last dose of the study
Open-label
medication.
Comparison of the Safety and Efficacy of
(MD06869)
A
Multicenter,
Randomized,
Tigecycline with that of Ampicillin-Sulbactam or
Amoxicillin-Clavulanate to Treat Complicated
Targeting Apoptosis: A Study of Laser Induction
Skin and Skin Structure
and Hyaluronan Modulation in Keloid Derived
Cells
 BURD David Andrew Ross

IP Margaret
 BURD David Andrew Ross
(Microbiology)  WONG Shiu Yuen
HUANG Lin


CHEN Gong George
 1 September 2006
 1 January 2007
 Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
The purpose of this study is to compare the safety
and effectiveness (how well it works) of Tygacil
Apoptosis is a genetically regulated process whereby
(Tigecycline)
the
with
another
antibiotic
cells
quietly
involute
and
die
in
a
amoxicillin-clavulanate)
characteristically controlled manner which does not
when given to hospitalised subjects for complicated
induce an inflammatory response. In the course of
skin infections. Another antibiotic (vancomycin or
our laser studies where we have been looking at
teicoplanin)
cellular
(ampicillin-sulbactam
or
may
be
added
to
the
response
to
specific
wavelengths
of
ampicillin-sulbactam or amoxicillin-clavulanate if
electromagnetic radiation we have observed that we
certain bacteria are present in the skin infection site.
can induce a wave of cell death propagated by
Approximately 500 subjects will take part in this
non-irradiated cells.
study at centers worldwide. The test article subjects
these cells are dying through apoptotic mechanisms.
receive will be decided by chance.
A further observation is that we can modulate this
Subjects will
by
altering
Preliminary studies indicate
have an equal chance of receiving one of the
process
the
extracellular
matrix
following test articles:
specifically by adding hyaluronan (HA) of varying
•
Treatment A Tygacil.
molecular weights. This model of apoptosis opens
•
Treatment
or
up the possibility of promoting targeted cellular
amoxicillin-clavulanate. Another antibioticmay
events that lead to specific cell to cell signaling
be added within the first 72 hours of enrollment if
which can induce apoptosis.
the study doctor thinks or knows that a certain
strategy would have far reaching implications in
bacteria
developing
B:
called
ampicillin-sulbactam
methicillin.
Resistant
novel
Such a therapeutic
treatments
based
on
Staphlococcus aureus (MRSA) is in the skin
electromagnetic energy as compared to chemical
infection site.
(pharmacological induced) energy.
A major clinical
Subjects participation in this study will last for
interest is wound healing and scarring.
approximately 3 to 6 weeks. This period includes a
scarring is a pathological form of extreme scarring
that is prevalent in all racial groups.
Faculty of Medicine
390
Keloid
The incidence
Dept of Surgery
increases
with
increasing
racially
defined
would have wide reaching implications for all
pigmentation and it is a major problem in our
surgical disciplines.
Chinese population.
(MD06850)
Published studies of keloid
cellular behaviour suggested that, inhibition, of
apoptosis of fibroblasts is a major factor in the
Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with
development of keloid scar.
Combination
In this project we
propose to explore in vitro a potential in vivo
of
Adenoviral
Bid
and
Chemotherapeutic Agents
therapeutic strategy whereby apoptosis will be
induced in keloid cells by laser irradiation and
 CHEN Gong George  LAI Bo San Paul
modulated by HA.
 28 December 2006
(CU06460)
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
An Investigation of the Potential Therapeutic
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) affects millions of
Application of Human Umbilical Cord Lining
individuals worldwide, particularly in Southeast Asia
Epithelium for the Reconstruction of the Skin and
including
Buccal Mucosal Epithelial Defects
treatments have been tried, HCC remains one of the
Hong
Kong.
Although
multiple
most difficult tumors to treat when the tumor is
 BURD David Andrew Ross  HUANG Lin
advanced and unresectable.
 1 June 2007
novel therapy, our studies have shown that the
expression
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
of
In order to develop a
pro-apoptotic
protein
Bid
is
significantly decreased in liver tumor tissues than
Grants)
non-tumor liver tissues from HCC patients and that
Human umbilical cord represents an ethically
decreased expression of Bid is related to the x protein
acceptable, free and constant source of epithelial stem
of hepatitis B virus, which is positive in about 90%
cells.
of HCC patients in Hong Kong.
The potential clinical application of tissue or
These results
cells derived from human umbilical cord for
suggest that a deficiency in the expression of Bid
epithelial reconstitution is completely unexplored.
may contribute to the development of HCC and that
The hypothesis which we seek to explore in the
the enforced expression of Bid may be useful in the
present study is that human umbilical cord lining
treatment of HCC.
epithelium will differentiate and organize into a
recombinant adenoviral AFPtBid, which contains
structure appropriate for the recipient site. That is to
tBid gene driven by an alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
say that when intact explants or cell cultures derived
promoter
from human umbilical cord lining are transplanted
AFP-producing HCC cells.
into specific post-natal epithelial environments (e.g.
overexpression of tBid significantly and specifically
skin or buccal mucosa), the epithelium and/or cells
induced apoptosis in AFP-producing HCC cells
will selectively differentiate to provide reconstitution
either in vitro cell culture or in vivo HCC cells
of recipient site specific epithelium.
This pilot
implanted in the frank region of nude mice. We
study focuses on two specific epithelial constructs but
have also observed that the combination of tBid and
in
Recently we have constructed a
order
to
specifically
target
We found that
chemotherapy (doxorubicin or 5-fluorouracil) can
391
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Surgery
greatly enhance HCC cell death in the cell culture
adenocarcinoma cells, nasopharyngeal carcinoma
system.
cells, ovarian cancer cells, promyelocytic leukemia
The proposed study will continue our
research in this direction.
We will test the
cells, and thyroid cancer cells. To our knowledge,
adenoviral AFPtBid in an orthotopic xenograft tumor
similar study has not been reported by other groups.
model of HCC.
The new tumor model is different
Our experiment has also revealed that the inhibition of
from the tumor inoculated in the frank region of mice,
tumor cells by 5F is via a mitochondrial-mediated
as the tumor formed by the former is located in the
apoptotic mechanism involving an increase in p38
liver whereas by the latter is under the frank skin.
MARK and a decrease in NF-kappa B.
Therefore, the model will resemble naturally
comparing the effect of 5F with a well known
occurring HCC and the result obtained using this
anticancer
new model will be more reliable and convincing.
undergoing clinical evaluation as an antitumor drug in
On the other hand, though we have previously tested
the United State and Japan, we show that 5F is able to
the combination of tBid and chemotherapy against
induce apoptosis of cancer cells in a similar manner to
HCC in vitro culture system, the in vivo test has not
UCN01.
yet performed.
Therefore, we wish to test this
novel anticancer agent as potent as the patented UCN0l.
combination treatment in this new orthotopic
The proposed study is to further test 5F in vivo in two
xenograft tumor model of HCC. It is believed that
established animal tumor models of lung and liver.
the proposed study may lay a new platform for future
(MD06862)
drug,
UCN0l
which
is
By
currently
Therefore, 5F can be considered to be a
clinical trials.
(CU06534)
Levels
of
Endogenous
Peroxisome
Proliferators-Activated Receptor-Gamma Ligands
Ent-11
α-hydroxy-15-oxo-kaur-16-en-19-oic-acid
in Lung Cancer
(5F), a Potential Anticancer Drug from Chinese
 CHEN Gong George  WU Tangchun*
Herb
 31 March 2007
 CHEN Gong George  LIANG Nianci*
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 1 March 2007
Grants)
 GDMC Development Center for Medical and
Lung cancer is the most prevalent malignancy in
Pharmaceutical Science  Guangdong Yihe
Hong Kong.
Pharmaceutical Co Ltd  ITF - Guangdong-Hong
Conventional chemotherapy and
radiotherapy are still of limited effectiveness. The
Kong Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme
peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma
(Platform Research Scheme)
(PPAR-γ) is a member of the nuclear hormone
Our
previous
studies
have
demonstrated
that
receptor
superfamily
of
ligand-activated
Ent-1lα-hydroxy-15-oxo-kaur-16-en-19-oic-acid (5F), a
transcription factors and a crucial regulator of
compound isolated from the Chinese herbal medicine
cellular differentiation.
plant Pteris semipinnata L, can significantly kill a
and antiproliferative effects of PPAR-γ suggest that
variety of tumor cells in vitro including colon cancer
PPAR-γ might be useful as an effective anticancer
cells, gastric cells, liver adenocarcinoma cells, lung
agent. In humans, PPAR-γ is expressed in multiple
Faculty of Medicine
392
Differentiation-inducing
Dept of Surgery
tissues, including adipose tissue, the breast, colon,
with formation of contractile myofibroblast cells in
lung, ovary, and placenta.
the wound.
Several ligands for
PPAR-γ have been described, including the synthetic
Sonic hedgehog (Shh) is a gene expressed in the skin
thiazolidinedione (TZD) class of insulin-sensitizing
stem
agents, such as troglitazone (TGZ), and the natural
epithelial-mesenchymal interaction.
prostaglandin
15-deoxy-12,14-prostaglandin
cells
and
plays
an
important
role
in
Shh signaling
J2
has been shown to expand the hair follicle epithelial
acid
stem/progenitor cell population. We have recently
(12S-HETE) and 15-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid
demonstrated that Shh also inhibits smooth muscle
(15S-HETE).
cell differentiation. Laboratory studies suggest that
(PGJ2),
12-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic
The result from my group has
indicated that human lung cancer tissues and cell
Shh may be involved in wound healing.
lines have abundant PPARγ but the incidence of
We proposed to apply topical Shh gene DNA on full
apoptosis remains very low, suggesting that there
thickness skin wounds.
may be a defect in the activation of PPARγ Our
promotes re-epithelialization via its action on the
further
stem/progenitor cells; and ii) reduces wound
experiments
found
that
by
We will assess if it: i)
15-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid (15S-HETE) was
contracture
inhibiting
myofibroblast
significantly decreased in the serum of patients with
differentiation. The Shh gene therapy is applicable
lung cancer.
Therefore, it is assumed that a defect
to wounds from bums, trauma and chronic ulcers,
in endogenous PPAR-γ ligands may contribute to the
accelerating the wound healing and minimizing the
growth of lung cancer. The proposed study is to
scarring.
investigate the level of endogenous PPAR-γ ligands
costs.
in the circulatory system and human lung tissues.
(MD06565)
It will also greatly reduce the medical
(MD06721)
Use of Self-Expandable-Metallic-Stent (SEMS) for
Shh Gene Therapy to Accelerate Wound Healing
the Relief of Dysphagia in Patients with Advanced
Esophageal Cancer
 CHENG Wei
 30 June 2007
 CHIU Wai Yan Philip  NG Enders Kwok-wai
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 1 January 2007
 S.K. Yee Medical Foundation
Grants)
Failure of wound healing is a challenging clinical
a. Ways in which the project is of direct benefit to the
problem.
poor and sick:
Each year, on a global base, 20 million
people sustain major burns and 1 million of them
Cancer of the esophagus is the seventh leading cause
require hospitalization. Despite skin grafts, many of
of cancer death in Hong Kong.
the large wounds fail to heal. The failure of wound
however, carry a grave prognosis with a 5 year
healing is characterized by lack of re-epithelialization
survival less than 20%. The disease usually occurs
(skin growth) and excessive wound contraction.
at the age of 70-80, affecting mainly the lower social
While stem cells in hair follicles contribute to
class. It is related to smoking habit and nutritional
re-epithelialization, wound contracture is associated
deficiency.
393
Most patients,
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Surgery
Knowing that the sole function of the esophagus is to
investigate the coronary and pulmonary arteries
transmit food from oral cavity to the stomach, it is
preserved in currently used preservation solutions and
understandable that patients with esophageal cancer
to test the hypothesis that the contractility and
have a poor quality of living as they are not able to
endothelial function of the coronary or pulmonary
eat. In patients with metastatic or locally advanced
artery decreased by prolonged hypoxia-reoxygenation
esophageal cancer, surgical excision is impossible.
and that the protective effect of the current heart or
The primary goal of therapy then is to allow the
lung preservation solutions is limited.
patient to eat again. Self expandable metallic stent
knowledge derived from this proposed project, the
(SEMS) is an effective way of palliating dysphagia in
effect of clinically used heart and lung preservation
patients with esophageal cancer.
solutions on the vascular endothelial function under
The SEMS is currently a patient purchase item in the
conditions similar to the clinical setting is defined and
Hospital Authority. This project aims to financially
better understood. This will provide knowledge for
assist those poor and sick patients with terminal
the development of new generation heart and lung
esophageal cancer so that they can regain swallowing
preservation solutions.
despite the incurable nature of the disease.
gained from the proposed project will have important
b. Aims:
significance in further improvement of transplantation
To deliver a service on endoscopic stenting for
surgery.
palliation of dysphagia in patients with cancer of the
(MD06673)
With the
Therefore, the knowledge
esophagus.
(MD06980)
An Investigation of the Plasticity of Human
Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Stem Cells in
Coronary and Pulmonary Vascular Function after
Hypothermic
Preservation
with
Tissue-engineering of Skin
Organ
 HUANG Lin
Preservation Solutions

BURD David Andrew Ross  LI
Kwai Har Karen (Paediatrics)
 HE Guo Wei  YANG Qin
 1 June 2007
 1 June 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Grants)
Grants)
This proposal seeks to explore the plasticity of human
Normal coronary function plays a key role in organ
umbilical cord blood (UCB)-derived stem cells in the
perfusion.
tissue engineering of skin.
In heart or lung transplantation, the
We propose to use a
donor heart or lung is inevitably subjected to
3-dimensional acellular dermal matrix and populate it
ischemia-reperfusion (I-R). The clinical strategy to
with UCB stem cells.
protect the organ is to preserve the organ in
explored including primary modulation of UCB stem
preservation solutions under hypothermia (4°C).
cell differentiation by epidermal differentiation
There is evidence that the preservation so far is
factors
imperfect. Early or late complications may occur due
incorporating them into the dermal matrix as well as
to the preservation method.
priming the matrix with epidermal keratinocytes
Faculty of Medicine
We propose to
394
and/or
Several strategies will be
keratinocyte
co-cultures
before
Dept of Surgery
before incorporating the UCB stem cells.
Since
PCa cells by miRNA microarray to identify the
human umbilical cord blood is a free human resource
differentially
expressed
miRNAs
related
to
which is readily available, potentially safe and
treatments; 2) employ real-time stem loop PCR assay
ethically acceptable, the demonstration of their
to verify the treatment induced changes of miRNAs
potential utility for skin reconstruction would have
expression in the cells; and 3) determine the estrogen
overwhelming benefits to the survival and outcome
receptors (ERs) dependency of this hormonal
of burns patients worldwide.
regulation by siRNA approach.
(MD06476)
this proposal could provide insight in regulation of
The outcomes of
miRNA expression in cancer cells and further
Genome-Wide
Identification
Antiestrogen-Regulated
of
Estrogen-and
enhance our understanding of ERs in prostate cancer.
in
(MD06430)
miRNAs
Prostate
Cancer Cells
Molecular Changes in Central Neural Pathways
 NG Chi Fai
LAU Kin Mang (Anatomical &

Cellular Pathology)

CHAN Shu Yin Eddie
Induced by Bladder Disorder

 NG Yuen Keng  YEUNG Chung Kwong
HO Shuk Mei*
 1 April 2007
 1 April 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Grants)
Grants)
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the 4th common male cancer
Enuresis or bedwetting, is a common clinical
in Hong Kong.
problem in children and adolescents in Hong Kong.
observed
in
A rapid increasing incidence is
the
last
two
decades.
It
is
It has been showed that enuretic children are more
well-established that estrogens play important roles in
difficult to be awoken.
carcinogenesis
that
demonstrated
of
PCa.
estrogen
We
and/or
previously
antiestrogens
severe
fragmentation
enuretic
and
Recently we have shown
children
reduced
have
functional
sleep
bladder
significantly inhibited prostate cancer cell growth via
capacity. Furthermore, our studies suggest that the
estrogen
bladder disorder is the underlying cause for the sleep
receptor-beta
dependent
mechanism.
Recent emerging evidences point towards the
problem in enuretic children.
importance of microRNA (miRNA) deregulations as
indicates that voiding is preceded by arousal from
critical events driving cancer development.
In
sleep in human infants. The arousal from sleep by
silico-analysis
of
bladder distension is mediated by the locus coeruleus
indicates
the
presence
Clinical evidence
estrogen-responsive elements (EREs) in one third of
noradrenergic pathways in the brainstem.
miRNA putative promoters, suggesting the estrogenic
addition, the corticotrophin releasing factor (CRF)
and antiestrogenic regulations in miRNA expression.
neural pathway is important for the modulation of the
In this proposal, we will explore this novel regulatory
locus coeruleus neurons.
mechanism for miRNA expression in PCa cells. We
unknown how bladder disorder affects the central
will 1) comprehensively study the miRNA expression
neural pathways, resulting in the altered sleep pattern
profiles of estrogen/antiestrogen treated and untreated
of enuretic patients. In this study, we will use adult
395
In
At present, it is still
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Surgery
male Wistar rats with reduced bladder capacity as a
daily for 10 consecutive days.
bladder disorder model.
observation period for each patient will be three
We will investigate the
molecular changes in the central neural pathways
months.
after the bladder reduction with (1) protein
(MD06744)
The clinical
expression measurement by quantitative RT-PCR;
and
(2)
proteomics
hypothalamus.
in
the
brainstem
and
Surgical Audit Programme
The findings of this study will
provide (i) new evidence to support the discovery of
 UNDERWOOD Malcolm John  WAN Song
a novel functional interaction between the CNS and
 1 February 2007
bladder; (ii) insights on the visceral modulation of the
 Contribution from Applicant  New Method
CNS; and (iii) new molecular targets for further
College Ltd  Professional Services
studies on the neurobiological interactions between
Development Assistance Scheme, Commerce,
sleep regulation and bladder disorder.
Industry and Technology Bureau, HKSAR Govt
(MD06940)

Sorin Group Asia Pte Ltd
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled
Clinical Audit (data collection and analysis of clinical
Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy
outcome) within surgical specialties as part of
of Cerebrolysin in Patients with Acute Ischemic
‘Quality Assurance’ programmes is well established
Stroke
Internationally.
The ability to do this provides
clinicians not only with the possibility of maintaining
 POON Wai Sang  WONG Kwok Chu  KWOK
and improving the outcome for patients, but also
Siu Man Sharman*  WONG Chi Keung*
allowing personal and Departmental development
following data comparison with Internationally
 1 September 2006
accepted standards. In Hong Kong, the practice of
 EBEWE Pharma (Asia) Ltd
surgical audits is still in its infancy. Surgical audits
The objective of the study is to assess the clinical
carried out are usually one-off, labour intensive
efficacy and safety of a 10-day course of therapy with
processes. This is in contrast with the international
daily
standard of audit, which should be continual and
intravenous
administration
of
30ml
Cerebrolysin based on a comparison with placebo.
cyclical
It will be carried out as a prospective, randomized,
performance and ongoing improvement.
double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group,
project is designed to implement a computerized data
multicentre study. Enrolment is expected to last for
collection process within the Department of Surgery,
12 months. The target population would be adult
which has inherent ability to consolidate individual
patients
acute
patient data into the relevant database specialties and
hemispheric infarcts within 12 hours after the onset
also provide simple and complex outcome analysis
of symptoms.
for patient sub-groups.
with
a
clinical
diagnosis
of
Group 1 will be given 30ml
(MD06979)
Cerebrolysin IV and l00mg acetylsalicyclic acid PO.
Group 2 will be given normal saline IV and 100mg
acetylsalicyclic acid. Study drug will be given once
Faculty of Medicine
leading
396
to
continued
validation
of
This
Dept of Surgery
The Effect of “Hot Shot” Blood Cardioplegia on
help devise better strategies to improve myocardial
Clinical Outcome, Myocardial Metabolism and
protection during valve surgery.
Reperfusion
(EE06373)
Injury
in
Patients
Undergoing
First-time Elective Heart-Valve Surgery
Gene Therapy for the Prevention of Vein Graft
 UNDERWOOD Malcolm John

WAN Song
Failure: Pre-clinical Evaluation

SUILEMANN Nilesh*
 WAN Song
 30 June 2007

YIM Ping Chuen Anthony

ARIFI Ahmed A*  BAKER Andrew H*
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
 1 October 2006
Grants)
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
Hyperkalaemic cardioplegic solutions remain the
most commonly used technique for protecting the
Saphenous vein bypass grafts are the most widely
heart against ischaemia during open-heart surgery.
used conduits for surgical revascularization in both
The principle is that high potassium arrests the heart
ischemic heart disease and peripheral vascular
and therefore reduces energy demands and help
disease.
preserving energy substrates during ischaemia.
remains the mainstay of treatment for patients with
Techniques of myocardial protection have largely
severe
been developed for hearts with coronary disease yet
particularly in those with diabetes and impaired
are routinely applied to all hearts irrespective of their
cardiac function. However, the long-term success
pathology.
of CABG is significantly limited by late vein graft
Hearts of patients with valve disease
Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
multi-vessel
coronary
artery
disease,
have different metabolic demands and undergo
failure.
different remodelling compared to coronary disease
accelerated atherosclerosis in venous bypass grafts is
and
a major clinical burden, resulting in high occlusion
therefore
are
likely
to
have
different
susceptibility to ischaemia and reperfusion.
Cold
In particular, neointima formation and
rates that are not responsive to pharmacological
cardioplegic solutions (blood or crystalloid) are
therapies.
widely used
however,
Our prior work has established the validity of
myocardial protection remains suboptimal and is
intraoperative gene therapy as a strategy to modify
associated
injury.
early bypass graft remodeling by prevention of vein
Reperfusion with warm cardioplegia (hot shot) is
graft neointima formation. We have evaluated first
known to improve protection and reduce injury
generation adenoviral-mediated overexpression of a
during coronary artery surgery.
The objective of
candidate therapeutic gene p53 using an in vivo pig
this proposal is to compare cold blood versus cold
vein graft model. We now propose to further extend
blood followed by warm blood cardioplegia “hot
this study by assessing the longer-term (i.e., 3 months)
shot” during mitral valve surgery. To achieve these
efficacy
objectives, we shall follow a comprehensive
metalloproteinases -3 (TIMP-3) gene therapies in the
approach
pig model using GLP grade virus stocks in a
during valve
with
of
significant
monitoring
surgery;
myocardial
clinical
myocardial injury and metabolism.
outcome,
It is expected
of
side-by-side
that this work will provide important information to
p53
and
comparison
tissue
of
inhibitor
clinically
of
useful
transgenes.
397
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Surgery
We envisage that these pre-clinical experiments
to H-R or hyperkalemia. Further, an IKca activator 1
could lead directly to translation to human clinical
-EBIO that has been demonstrated in our preliminary
trials.
studies to recover the IKca-related hyperpolarization
(CU06542)
and relaxation, will be used to examine whether this
kind of pharmacological tool may restore the
Alteration of Potassium Channels in Coronary
H-R-related alteration of IKca on molecular level.
Circulation due to Hypoxia and Hyperkalemia
This project will provide knowledge for the
and Pharmacological Prevention
development of new methods to reduce the H-R
injury to the heart due to ischemic heart disease or
 YANG Qin

HE Guo Wei

open heart surgery and therefore has clinical
YAO Xiaoqiang
significance.
(Physiology)
(MD06408)
 30 June 2007
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
Grants)
for more details of the following ongoing research
Coronary dysfunction is one of the major causes for
at the department:
reduced coronary flow and related morbidity and
mortality. In ischemic (coronary) heart disease and
Edition
Title/Investigators
open heart surgery, the heart is subjected to
hypoxia-reoxygenation (H-R).
Coronary function is
2003-04 The Design and Development of a Novel
related to a variety of potassium channels that may
Bio-Interactive Electro-Chemical Wound
involve
Dressing
both
endothelium-dependent
-independent mechanisms.
and
In the smooth muscle
Incorporating
the
Physical
Vapour Deposition of Nanoscale Silver
cell (SMC), BKca is related to endothelium-dependent
Ions (MD03739)
and -independent relaxation; in endothelial cells, IKca
 BURD David Andrew Ross
is related to the endothelium-dependent, non-nitric
Margaret (Microbiology)
oxide non-prostacyclin (NNONPG) pathway.
Wai
To
protect the heart, hyperkalemic solutions are used in
Kei
Christopher


IP
LAM
(Chemical
Pathology)  POON Kwok Man#
open heart surgery but those hyperkalemic solutions
have
been
demonstrated
to
reduce
the
2005-06 The
Technological
Upgrading
and
NNONPG-mediated hyperpolarization and relaxation
Clinical Validation of a Prototypical Near
in the coronary circulation. This study is designed
Infrared Spectrophotometer (MD05461)
to clarify the role of the two pathophysiological
 BURD David Andrew Ross

LIN
factors (H-R and hyperkalemia) on BKca in the SMC
Chinlon (Information Engineering)#
and IKca in the endothelial cell. Electrophysiological

method (patch-clamp) will be used to measure the
Engineering)
current change of BKca and molecular methods will
(Electronic Engineering)
be used to determine the possible alteration of the
Lin
mRNA or protein related to endothelial IKca, subjected
Faculty of Medicine
398
CHEN Lian Kuan (Information

LUO

Yuhui
HUANG
Dept of Surgery
 CHENG Wei

YEUNG Chung
Kwong
2005-06 A Study of Paracrine Modulation of
Cutaneous Pigmentation Using Pulsed,
2005-06 DNA Hypermethylation in Squamous
Frequency Doubled Nd: YAG 532nm
Cell Carcinoma of Esophagus - A
Laser Irradiation (MD05715)
 BURD
David
Andrew
Ross
Correlation Study with Clinical Outcome

after
HUANG Lin
Definitive
Chemo-Radiotherapy
(MD05730)
 CHIU Wai Yan Philip
2003-04

4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl
Kwok-wai
)-1-butanone (NNK), a Tobacco-Specific
Carcinogen,
Regulates


NG Enders
LEUNG Wai Keung
(Medicine & Therapeutics)
Apoptotic
Molecules via a Nuclear Factor Kappa
2001-02 The Interaction between Endothelium
B-Dependent Pathway (CU03390)
and Smooth Muscle/Cardiac Myocytes
 CHEN Gong George
During Heart Surgery and Clinical
Chuen Anthony
Tony


YIM Ping
Significance (MD01127)
MOK Shu Kam
(Clinical
Oncology)
 HE Guo Wei

WARNER Timothy D.*
2003-04 Function of Potassium Channels in the
Coronary / Pulmonary Arteries during
2004-05 Expression of Estrogen Receptors and the
Peroxisome
Heart / Lung Surgery (CU03383)
Proliferators-Activated
 HE Guo Wei
Receptor Gamma in Thyroid Cancer
(MD04322)
 CHEN
(Physiology)
Gong
HASSELT
George
Charles

Andrew
and
2004-05 Effect of Hypoxia-Reoxygenation and
VLANTIS Alexander
Preconditioning on the Release of Nitric
(Otorhinolaryngology,
Neck S)
YAO Xiaoqiang
(Physiology)
VAN


HUANG Yu

Head
Chris (Otorhinolaryngology, Head
Oxide
and Neck S)
Hyperpolarizing

TSE Man Kit Gary
and
Coronary
(Anatomical & Cellular Pathology)
Endothelium-Derived
Factor
from
Endothelium during
the
Heart
Surgery (MD04318)
 HE Guo Wei
2005-06 Influence of Hepatitis B Virus X on
Oxidant
Stress
in
Hepatocellular
2005-06 Experimental
Carcinoma (MD05519)
 CHEN Gong George

Studies
of
Pulmonary
Vessels in COPD (Chronic Obstructive
LAI Bo San
Pulmonary
Paul
Disease)
Patients
with
Relevance to New Therapeutic Strategies
(MD05307)
2005-06 Role of Bmp4 in Bladder Smooth Muscle
Differentiation (MD05429)
399
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Surgery
 HE Guo Wei
Anthony
YANG

 LAI Bo San Paul
YIM Ping Chuen

Qin
CHEN Gong

George  CHAN Yung Wai#

SHIGEMURA Norihisa#
2004-05 Prospective
Randomised
Study
of
2005-06 Towards Regeneration: The Role of
Endovenous Radiofrequency Obliteration
Hyaluronan-stem Cell Complexes in
(Closure Procedure) Versus Ligation and
Modulating
Stripping in the Treatment of Varicose
Epithelial-Mesenchymal
Interactions (CU05550)
 HUANG
Lin
Veins
BURD

Andrew Ross

Madhukar
(Orthopaedics
Traumatology)
Michael
a
Hong
Kong
Chinese
Population (MD04317)
David
 LAU Yun Wong James
KUMTA Shekhar

in

HO Sin
&
Yee Stella (Diagnostic Radiology &
M
Organ Imaging)  LEUNG Yee Fong
YANG*
(Diagnostic Radiology & Organ
Imaging)
1997-98 Prospective Study on the Relationship of
Central Venous Pressure and Blood Loss
During Hepatectomy
(MD96217)
 LAI Bo San Paul

Joseph

Use
of
Non-Contrast
Helical
Computerized Tomogram in Predicting
Treatment Outcome of Upper Ureteric
CHUI Po Tong

Stone by Extracorporeal Shock Wave
LAU Wan Yee
Lithotripsy Using the Sonolith 4000+
of
Lithotriptor (MD04438)
(Anaesthesia & Intensive Care)
LEOW Chon Kar
2005-06 The
(Faculty
Medicine
 NG Chi Fai
(Planning Office))

WONG Ka Tak
Jeffrey (Diagnostic Radiology &
2005-06 The Role of ZBP-89 in Chemotherapy of
Organ Imaging)  CHENG Chi Wai
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (CU05551)
 LAI Bo San Paul

2005-06 Evaluation of Zoledronic Acid to Prevent
CHEN Gong
Bone Loss in Men Receiving Androgen
George
Deprivation Therapy for Prostate Cancer
(MD04377)
2005-06 A Multicenter, Open-Label, Randomized
 NG Chi Fai  CHENG Chi Wai
Comparative Study of Tigecycline vs
Ceftriaxone Sodium plus Metronidazole
for
the
Treatment
Subjects
with
of
Hospitalized
2005-06 The Effect of Vardenafil on Blood
Complicated
Pressure
in
Patients
with
Erectile
Intra-Abdominal Infection (MD05650)
Dysfunction who Received Concomitant
 LAI Bo San Paul
Doxazosin GITS for the Treatment of
Benign Prostatic Hyperlasia (MD05362)
 NG Chi Fai  CHENG Chi Wai
2005-06 The Suppressive Effects of Octreotide on
Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
(MD05549)
Faculty of Medicine
400
Dept of Surgery
BACTISEAL
2003-04 Surveillance of Bleeding Peptic Ulcers
Using
Wireless
Capsule
External
Drainage (EVD) System (MD05599)
Endoscopy
 POON Wai Sang
(CU03382)
 NG Enders Kwok-wai
Leung
Francis
Therapeutics)


WONG Kwok

Chu  IP Margaret (Microbiology)
CHAN Ka
(Medicine
Ventricular
&
2005-06 Decompressive
SUNG Joseph Jao
Yiu (Medicine & Therapeutics)
Craniectomy
for
Uncontrollable Elevation of Intracranial

Pressure:
WONG Kin Hung Simon
How
Does
It
Work?
(MD05865)
 POON Wai Sang
2005-06 Prevention of Transcoelomic Spread of
Stomach
Cancer
through
the

CHAN Matthew
Tak Vai (Anaesthesia & Intensive
Anti-Angiogenic Pathway of COX-2
Care)
Specific Inhibitors: from Bench Top to
Wai
Bedside (MD05634)
Radiology & Organ Imaging)
 NG Enders Kwok-wai
Wai
Keung

 POON Wai Sang

(Anatomical

Function:
 SHI
Head Injury (CU03386)
Shuen
(Diagnostic

An
Animal
Study
(MD05584)
2003-04 A CT Decision-Making Tool for Mild

Wynnie
LAM
2005-06 Effects of Reduced Bladder Capacity on
Brain
Pathology)
Man

&
Therapeutics)
Leung
WONG Kwok Chu
WONG Wai Sun Vincent*
LEUNG
(Medicine

Yimin
CHAN Yu
Kwong
&
(Physiology)
Cellular

Kenneth
LEUNG Clarence Hin
YEUNG

Chung
CHAN Hsiao Chang
ROWLANDS Dewi

(Laboratory
Animal
Services Centre)
CAMERON Peter Alistair
(Accident and Emergency Medicine
Academic Unit)#

2005-06 A
YU Ly Mee
Prospective,
Randomized,
Ashley (Centre for Clin. Trials &
Double-Blind,
Epidemiological Research)#
Assessing the Safety and Efficacy of

ZHU
Multicenter
Trial
Intravenous Administration Bay 12-8039
Xian Lun Cannon
(Moxifloxacin) 400mg Every 24 H
2005-06 A Multi-Centre Clinical Study in Spinal
Compared to Intravenous Ceftriaxone 2 g
Cord Injury Patients in Mainland China
Every 24 H and Metronidazole 500mg
and Hong Kong (MD05418)
Every 12 H for the Treatment of Patients
 POON Wai Sang
with

SUN Tin Fung
Complicated
Infections (MD05965)
David
 SIU Wing Tai
2005-06 Establishment
Intra-Abdominal
of
Baseline
and
(Microbiology)
Comparative Infection Rates for Codman

401


LAI Wai Man
CHEUNG Ka Yin
NG Enders Kwok-wai
Faculty of Medicine
Dept of Surgery
Hypoxia-Reoxygenation
2005-06 Evaluation of Sustained Efficacy of
Venous Bypass Graft Gene Therapy
Surgery (MD05622)
(MD05940)
 YANG Qin
 WAN Song

2004-05 Efficacy of Conventional Acupuncture
Therapy
Registry
Cardiac
YIM Ping Chuen
Anthony  CHEN Ge*
2005-06 A
in
for
Versus
Acupuncture-Point
Comparing
Overnight
Transcutaneous
Catheter-Related Infection Rates among
Electrical
Various Shunt Systems in the Treatment
(ACU-TENS) Therapy for Children with
of Hydrocephalus (MD05750)
Severe Primary Nocturnal Enuresis: A
 WONG Kwok Chu
Clinical

POON Wai
Nerve
and
Stimulation
Neurophysiological
Comparative Study (MD04900)
Sang  SUN Tin Fung David
 YEUNG Chung Kwong
2005-06 Clinical Study on Cognitive Impairment
after
Aneurysmal

LEUNG
Ping Chung (Institute of Chinese
Subarachnoid
Medicine)

CHAN Yu Leung
Hemorrhage (SCISH) (MD05527)
(Anatomical & Cellular Pathology) 
 WONG Kwok Chu
PHILIP David*
Sang


POON Wai
ZHU Xian Lun Cannon
MOK
Chung
Tong
(Medicine & Therapeutics)

2005-06 Augmented Reality System for Image
Vincent

Sui Yin Agnes (Psychology)
Guided
CHAN

Minimally
Invasive
Surgery
(MD05508)
FAN
 YEUNG Chung Kwong
Shu Ping Dorothy (Ophthalmology
and Visual Sciences)
Luc*

HENG

SOLER
Pheng
Ann
(Computer Science and Engineering)
+
2005-06 Effect of K and Mg
2+
on Endothelial
Nitric Oxide Release: Interaction with
Faculty of Medicine
402
Accident and Emergency Medicine Academic Unit
Participants: 783 subjects having sustained isolated
RESEARCH PROJECTS
soft tissue limb injury without significant fracture
presenting to the ED of Prince of Wales Hospital
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Oral Paracetamol
Main outcome measures: Pain relief profiles of
and Ibuprofen for Treating Pain after Soft Tissue
paracetamol, ibuprofen and the combination of both;
Limb
adverse effect profiles of paracetamol, ibuprofen and
Injuries:
Double-Blind,
Randomized,
the combination of both; overall cost effectiveness of
Controlled Trial
paracetamol, ibuprofen and the combination of both
from the perspective of the healthcare provider
 GRAHAM C A  MAN Shin Yan  WOO Wing
(MD06760)
Keung  RAINER Timothy Hudson
 1 June 2007
Development
 Hong Kong College of Emergency Medicine
Matrix
Marker in Acute Stroke
Paracetamol
and
non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen
 GRAHAM C A
are commonly used oral analgesics in emergency
Pathology)
departments (ED) not only in Hong Kong but
Timothy Hudson
throughout the world.
Metalloproteinase-9
mRNA as an Early Diagnostic and Prognostic
Research Fund
Background:
of
There are no large-scale

CHAN Wing Yan (Chemical
LAM Yuk Lan


RAINER
 30 June 2007
(n>100), prospective, randomised studies comparing
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
paracetamol with ibuprofen in the management of
Grants)
acute soft tissue injury. As paracetamol is cheaper
than most NSAIDs, may be as effective in the
Cerebrovascular diseases, including stroke, are one
management of acute pain and possibly with fewer
of the leading causes of death worldwide and also a
adverse effects, a large-scale, randomised, controlled
major cause of disability.
trial is needed to answer questions of relative
mortality
analgesic efficacy, safety and cost-effectiveness.
maintained for at least another 20 years.
Previous comparative studies on NSAIDS have been
Although neuroimaging methods enable detection
done in this unit and have suggested equivalence
and localization of stroke and acute brain damage,
between two NSAIDs and paracetamol, but numbers
frequent and repeated measurement is not practical.
were small and drug doses were modest.
There is growing evidence that the dysregulation of
Objective: To compare the efficacy, safety and cost
various proteins and RNA in injured brain tissues
between oral ibuprofen and paracetamol in pain
may be of pathological relevance.
control for acute soft tissue injuries in an ED setting
MMP9 is a zinc-dependent protease which is
Design:
randomised
involved in the degradation of basal lamina and
controlled trial with three arms: oral paracetamol
extracellular matrix, leading to the disruption of the
with
blood brain barrier.
Prospective,
placebo;
oral
double-blind,
ibuprofen
with
placebo;
suggest
that
Projections of global
this
position will
be
Both protein and RNA levels
of MMP9 were found to be elevated in brain tissues
paracetamol and ibuprofen in combination
and
403
correlated
to
stroke
severity.
Recent
Faculty of Medicine
Accident and Emergency Medicine Academic Unit
microarray studies demonstrated that MMP9 is one
On one hand, healthcare workers try to control costs
of the highly expressed genes in leukocytes after
by reducing unnecessary hospital admissions whilst
stroke and traumatic brain injury. Our preliminary
on the other hand, they have to safeguard patients
study showed an elevation of MMP9 mRNA in
who are seriously affected by admitting them for
blood cells of stroke patients.
inpatient care. In Hong Kong, the issue has been
Therefore, the present study aims to investigate
further complicated after the SARS outbreak and a
whether MMP9 mRNA detected in blood cells is a
clinical decision rule was felt to be a possible
pathologically relevant marker for stroke and its
solution for the problem.
potential clinical applications. With the use of real
We aim to develop a new predictive rule by
time quantitative RT-PCR technique, we will study
performing a prospective observational study that
the profile of MMP9 RNA in the circulation and
could reliably classify CAP patients into different
evaluate its value in diagnosis, risk-stratification and
risk groups and guide clinical management decisions.
prognosis of patients with stroke.
The cohort will be used for new rule derivation and
determine
whether
it
may
We will also
be
a
potential
validation. Prognostic factors for CAP patients will
discriminator of ischaemic and haemohagic stroke,
be identified for new rule construction in the
and its value as a predictor of morbidity and
derivation cohort and the new rule will subsequently
mortality, and its temporal relationships
be validated in the validation cohort.
(MD06531)
(MD06759)
Decision Rule for Pneumonia in Hong Kong
A
Multi-Center,
Randomized,
Double-Blind,
Parallel Group, Placebo Controlled Trial to
 MAN Shin Yan

GRAHAM C A

RAINER
Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Activated
Timothy Hudson
Recombinant
Factor
VII
(rFVIIa/NovoSeven/NiaStase) in Severely Injured
 1 May 2007
Trauma Patients with Bleeding Refractory to
 Hong Kong College of Emergency Medicine
Standard Treatment
Research Fund
 RAINER Timothy Hudson
Community acquired pneumonia (CAP) has a wide
GRAHAM C A

CHEUNG Nai Kwong


range of clinical presentations and its severity varies
CHENG Chi Hung
from a mild illness to a rapidly fatal disease. There
YEUNG Hiu Hung
is no consensus among clinicians with respect to
(Anaesthesia & Intensive Care)
deciding the location (inpatient or outpatient) of care
(Anaesthesia & Intensive Care)
for CAP patients despite the development of clinical
guidelines by different international societies.


HO Ming Hei Anthony

LI Tze Yan
 1 October 2006
None
 Novo Nordisk Hong Kong Ltd
of these rules are primarily designed for use in ED,
and coupled with the stressful and busy nature of ED,
A multi-center, randomized, double-blind, parallel
most
group, placebo-controlled trial will be conducted to
emergency
physicians
have
had
prior
experience of difficulties in deciding the location of
evaluate
care for CAP patients shortly after the consultation.
(NovoSeven®/NiaStase®) in patients with blunt
Faculty of Medicine
404
the
efficacy
and
safety
of
rFVIIa
Accident and Emergency Medicine Academic Unit
and/or penetrating trauma injuries. Patients meeting
 YIM Wai Ting
entry criteria will be randomized and receive study

RAINER Timothy Hudson
drug (NovoSeven®/NiaStase® or placebo) as an
GRAHAM C A
adjunct to standard treatment.
Therapeutics)
Patients eligible for randomization must have
Lung*  TING Soo Moi*
received a minimum of 4 units and a maximum of 8
units of red blood cells (RBC).



WOO Jean (Medicine &
WONG Tai Wai
LAU Fei

 1 June 2007
Patients with
 Food and Health Bureau - Studies in Health
confirmed clinical indicators for active hemorrhage
Services
refractory to standard treatment will be randomized to
one of two treatment groups:
Background: Elder emergency department (ED)
1.
Three single doses of rFVIIa (200 mcg/kg + 100
patients (>65 years) are at increased risk for
mcg/kg + 100 mcg/kg); and
acute hospital admission and return ED visits,
2.
Three
single
doses
of
placebo
(volumes
when compared with younger patients. The
administered identical to active treatment).
Identification of Seniors at Risk (ISAR) tool is
Randomized patients will receive the first dose of
a validated screening tool specifically for
study drug (NovoSeven®/NiaStase® or placebo)
high-risk elderly in the ED.
administered intravenously as a slow-bolus injection,
stratifies elderly patients at risk for adverse
no earlier than upon the completion of the 4th unit of
health
RBC and no later than by the completion of the 8th unit
admission and functional decline).
of RBC. A second dose will be administered one
scores ≥2 predict adverse health outcomes
hour after the initial dose, and a third dose will be
within 6 months of index ED visits. Patients
administered three hours after the initial dose. Safety
screening ISAR positive had lower rates of
and efficacy endpoints will be evaluated at different
functional decline when ED-based nursing
time points from Randomization through Day 30.
assessment and community-based intervention
Serious Adverse Events (SAEs), mortality, and patient
were performed.
status will be followed through Day 90.
Objectives:
Specific procedures including physical examination,
1.
Derive a Hong Kong version of ISAR;
measurement
2.
Validate this new tool (‘HK-ISAR’) in the local
of
vital
signs,
and
laboratory
assessments will be conducted at defined intervals
outcomes
(death,
It detects and
long-term
care
ISAR
population;
throughout the trial. The outcomes are transfusion
3.
requirements, organ function, adverse events and
Compare it to original ISAR using ROC
analysis; and
mortality.
4.
(MD06543)
Using the validated ISAR/HK-ISAR tool,
identify high-risk elderly and study effects of
structured ED intervention on hospitalisation
and institutionalisation within six months.
Emergency Department Intervention for High
Risk Elders in Hong Kong: Validation of an
Design:
Identification
Randomized
Study 1: Prospective derivation and validation cohort
Controlled Trial to Reduce Hospitalization and
study in EDs of three local hospitals (Aims 1, 2 and
Institutionalization
3).
Strategy
and
405
Faculty of Medicine
Accident and Emergency Medicine Academic Unit
Study
2:
Prospective
multi-centre
randomized
 GRAHAM C A

RAINER Timothy
controlled trial of ISAR positive elderly ED patients
Hudson
(Aim 4).

Participants:
Pathology)
Study 1: Elderly patients presenting to the ED in
(Chemical Pathology)

CHIK Ki Wai (Paediatrics)
LO Yuk Ming Dennis (Chemical
CHAN Wing Yan

stable clinical condition.
Study 2: Elderly patients ready to be discharged from
2003-04 Investigation into Circulating Nucleic
the ED.
Acids in Patients with Stroke (CU03402)
Primary outcome measure:
 RAINER Timothy Hudson
Any one of the following:
Wai

Long-term care admission (>3 months in
Radiology & Organ Imaging)
nursing home);
Yuk
Acute hospital admission within 6 months of ED
Pathology)
attendance; and
Constantine (Diagnostic Radiology
High ED utilization (>3 visits following index
& Organ Imaging)#
attendance) during 6 months after index ED
Sing
visit.
Therapeutics)


Man
Wynnie
LAM

Ming
(Diagnostic
Dennis

LO
(Chemical
METREWELI

Lawrence

WONG Ka
(Medicine
&
(MD06736)
2005-06 Investigation of the Value of Early
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
Clinical
Features
and
for more details of the following ongoing research
Electrocardiographic
at the department:
Cardiospecific Protein Tests and Novel
Changes,
Rapid
Circulating Nucleic Acids in the Early
Edition
Diagnosis of Acute Coronary Syndrome
Title/Investigators
in
2004-05 Cost-Effectiveness
Analysis
of
the
Emergency
(MD05441)
Oral
 RAINER
Paracetamol and Ibuprofen for Treating
Timothy
Pain after Soft Tissue Limb Injuries:
Renneberg,
Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled
SANDERSON
Trial (MD04974)
(Medicine
 GRAHAM C A

MAN Shin Yan
WOO Wing Keung

RAINER
2005-06 A Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP)
Based Method to Investigate the Origin
Circulating
Brain-Derived
RNA
(MD05367)
Faculty of Medicine
406
Hudson
Reinhard*
&
GRAHAM C A

Timothy Hudson  JACOBS Philip*
of
Department
John


Elsby
Therapeutics)#

Clinical Immunology Unit
known to influence the functions of Bcl-2 proteins
RESEARCH PROJECTS
will also be investigated.
Understanding of the
range and mechanism of this powerful anti-apoptotic
protein will provide a new therapeutic means to
In Vivo Anti-Apoptotic Activity of BRE
diseases involving dysfunctional apoptosis, which
 CHUI Yiu Loon
include neurodegeneration and cancer, just to name a
 1 March 2007
few.
(MD06330)
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
Grants)
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
BRE is a novel death receptor-associated intracellular
for more details of the following ongoing research
protein shown to have anti-apoptotic activity in cell
at the department:
lines.
Ectopic expression of the protein can lead to
Edition
attenuated cellular apoptotic response to TNF-α,
anti-Fas
agonist
antibody,
and
a
variety
Title/Investigators
of
Stable transfection of a
2004-05 BRE - Investigation of Its Roles in Death
mouse Lewis lung carcinoma clone, D122, with
Receptor Signaling, Human Cancers and
human BRE could enhance its growth as tumor in
Its Primary Function (MD04756)
mice.
 CHUI Yiu Loon
stress-related stimuli.
The site of anti-apoptotic action of BRE has
been narrowed down to the events proximal to
2005-06 Expression Regulation Study of BRE
mitochondrial permeabilization. Recently, we have
generated a liver-specific transgenic human BRE
(MD05422)
mouse strain, which showed significantly less liver
 CHUI Yiu Loon
damage in response to injection of anti-Fas agonist
antibody,
compared
with
the
2005-06 Expression, Purification and Supply of
non-transgenic
littermates, thus demonstrating for the first time in
Influenza
vivo anti-apoptotic activity of BRE.
Glycoproteins (BL05575)
Here, it is
H5N1
Haemagglutinin
 LIM Pak Leong  LEUNG Tze Ming
proposed to extend the in vivo work using the
transgenic mice to other death receptor-dependent
2005-06 Help Determine Telomerase Gene and
and -independent apoptotic stimuli, such as TNF-α,
and tunicamycin, respectively.
Protein Expression in Fish (Medaka)
The aim is to
establish the in vivo anti-apoptotic range of BRE. It
Tissue (BL05524)
is also proposed to investigate the mechanism of the
 LIM Pak Leong  AU Doris W T* 
anti-apoptotic activity by analyzing the protein
LEUNG Tze Ming
expression levels and activation status of the
Hung  TAM Chi Hang Frankie

MA Chun
pro-survival and pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins,
which
are
the
key
mitochondria-proximal events.
players
in
the
MAPK pathways
407
Faculty of Medicine
Clinical Immunology Unit
2005-06 Induction
of
Suicide
in
Autoantibody-Producing Cells In Vitro
and In Vivo (MD05451)
 LIM Pak Leong  LEUNG Tze Ming

WONG Chun Kwok (Chemical
Pathology)
Faculty of Medicine
408
Epithelial Cell Biology Research Centre
 LI Ming
RESEARCH PROJECTS
SANDERSON John

Elsby (Medicine & Therapeutics)#

LEE Ka Ho Kenneth (Anatomy)
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
2003-04 Salvage
for more details of the following ongoing research
of
Ischemic/Infarcted
Myocardium by Dagencao Induced Rapid
at the department:
Angiogenesis and Myogenesis and Its
Edition
Development (MD03801)
Title/Investigators
 LI Ming
SANDERSON John

Elsby (Medicine & Therapeutics)#
2001-02 Salvage of Infarcted Myocardium by an
Extract of Dagencao with Dual Effects on
YU
Angiogenesis and Cardiomyogenesis and
Therapeutics)  LEE Ka Ho Kenneth
Investigation
of
Molecular
(Anatomy)
Mechanism
Involved
Dagencao
Edmund*
Induced
the
in
Angiogenesis

Man

(Medicine
CHEUNG
N
&
M
&
2005-06 Characterization and Cloning of the
Cardiomyogenesis (MD01972)
 LI Ming
Cheuk

Novel Mitogen(s) that Induces Cardiac
SANDERSON John
Elsby (Medicine & Therapeutics)#

Myocyte Dividing (MD05776)
LEE Ka Ho Kenneth (Anatomy)

 LI Ming

TSUI Kwok Wing
LEUNG Ping Chung (Institute of
(Biochemistry
(Medicine))
Chinese Medicine)
CHENG Lei (Physiology)

2003-04 Purification and Cloning of the Novel
Muscle Healing Protein(s) that Enhances
Muscle
Repair
and
Regeneration
(CU03450)
409
Faculty of Medicine
Epithelial Cell Biology Research Centre
 CHENG YAM FK Frances
RESEARCH PROJECTS
Albert
(Community
and

LEE
Family
Medicine)
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
2004-05 Colourful
for more details of the following ongoing research
and
Vegetables
at the department:
Bright
Project
-
Fruits
Creating
and
a
Supportive Eating Environment for New
Edition
Generation (MD04397)
Title/Investigators
 HO Man
LEE Albert (Community
and Family Medicine)
2005-06 Study on Investigating the Health Status
Mei Wan
of Office Workers and the Workplace
Safety and Health Performance in Hong
Kong (MD05803)
Faculty of Medicine

410

KEUNG
Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases
 HE Mingliang
RESEARCH PROJECTS

SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu
(Medicine & Therapeutics)

CHAN Lik Yuen
Henry (Medicine & Therapeutics)
Improvement on Whole Genome Amplification of
 1 January 2007
Hepatitis B Virus Sequence
 Research Grants Council (Earmarked Grants)
 DING Chunming
Chronic HBV infection is a major risk factor for the

CHAN Lik Yuen Henry
(Medicine & Therapeutics)

development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC);
SUNG Joseph Jao
however, the pathogenesis of HBV-induced HCC is
Yiu (Medicine & Therapeutics)
poorly understood. Our clinical studies have shown
 30 June 2007
that some subgenotypes/hot spot mutations are
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct
associated with increased risk for HCC.
Grants)
In this
study, we extend our clinical observation to
It is estimated that 400 million people world-wide are
virological and biological studies.
suffering from chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV)
determine if HBV strains isolated from old
infection.
[1] Hong Kong is endemic for HBV
asymptomatic HBV carriers or young HCC patients
infection, with a hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)
display any characteristic changes in terms of
carrier rate of about 10%. [2] HBV infection is a
replication
risk factor for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma
signaling in the host cells. We will also create point
(HCC). HBV develops mutations at a relatively high
mutants on reference strains in accordance with hot
rate in the genome.
Such mutations may affect
spots mutations observed in our clinical studies, and
replication capacity, drug resistance, or change
test for virological and/or biological changes that
immune response. Thus, it is essential to carry out
could be associated with HCC development.
sequence analysis of the HBV genome. HBV whole
addition, we will also investigate whether new
genome amplification is an essential step in cloning
mutations causing amino acid residues substitutions
the HBV genome from clinical samples for functional
in X gene lead to altered functions.
analysis such as drug resistance tests and replication
from this study would enhance our knowledge of
efficiency assays.
In this proposal, we aim to
HBV biology, and may provide molecular markers in
improve the sensitivity and fidelity of the existing
predicting the disease process, prognosis as well as
method for HBV whole genome amplification.
supporting better management of HBV patients.
(MD06494)
(CU06428)
Functional
Characterization
Subgenotypes/Mutations
of
Novel
Associated
capacities,
promoter
We will
activities,
and
In
The results
HBV
Polymorphisms of GRP78 Gene and Their
with
Association with Chronic HBV Infection and
HBV-Associated Liver Cancer
Increased Risk for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
(HCC)
 HE Mingliang  KUNG Hsiang Fu  CHAN Lik
Yuen Henry (Medicine & Therapeutics)
411

Faculty of Medicine
Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases
TANG
Leung
Sang
Nelson
(Chemical
 KUNG Hsiang Fu
Pathology)

LIN Marie MC*

HE
Mingliang  SUNG Joseph Jao Yiu (Medicine &
 30 June 2007
Therapeutics)
 CUHK Research Committee Funding (Direct

CHAN Kay Sheung Paul
(Microbiology)
Grants)
 1 February 2007
Common
diseases
are
the
consequence
of
 Research Fund for the Control of Infectious
complicated interactions between environmental
Diseases
factors and alleles of many genes. HBV-associated
diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular
We undertake to evaluate the potency of 23 different
carcinoma is one of the major threatening for public
isoforms of Type I IFNs in inhibiting avian H5N1
health leading to over one million deaths worldwide
influenza A virus replication and/or infection.
annually.
particular, we would identify and characterize the
However, the molecular mechanisms and
In
genetic factors are not fully understood.
most potent isoform(s) as compared to that of
Stress is involved in multiple steps of many diseases.
IFN-α2A. Specifically, we aim at (1) To determine
GRP78, a member of HSP70 family, is elevated in
the efficacy of these 23 different isoforms of IFNs on
HBV-associated HCC specimen.
Our proteomics
money kidney Vero, FRhk-4 and primary alveolar
studies
was
obviously
epithelial cells using anti-viral assay; (2) To further
upregulated by induction of HBV reproduction in
characterize the effects of the most potent isoforms of
HepAD38 cells, suggesting GRP78 be a key gene
IFNs on viral replication before and after avian H5N1
response to HBV infection and disease progression.
infection using quantitative RT-PCR and plaque
Here we plan to investigate the single nucleotide
assay; (3) To determine the effect of the most potent
polymorphisms (SNPs) of GRP78 gene and their
IFN isoform on the global gene expression profile
associations with HBV-associated diseases.
We
using the cDNA microarray technology; and (4) To
will collect over 200 blood samples for each group,
elucidate the anti-H5N1 mechanism and its respective
including health Chinese, hepatitis, and HCC patients.
downstream effectors targeted by the most potent
Genomic DNA will be isolated for exploring SNPs
IFN isoform in H5N1-infected cells using proteomics
by PCR based DNA sequencing and/or allelic
and bioinformatic technologies.
discriminative real time PCR.
(MD06439)
revealed
that
GRP78
The associations
among individual SNPs and disease will be
discovered by statistic assays.
The output of this
The Assessment of Recently Acquired HIV
study would not only reveal the relationship between
Infection in Men Having Sex with Men (MSM) in
GRP78 and HBV associated diseases, but possibly
Hong Kong
identity a new target for anti-HBV associated liver
diseases as well.
 LEE Shui Shan  TAM Ka Po  HO Irene*
(MD06727)
 1 September 2006
 Centre for Health Protection, Department of
Super Interferons for the Treatment of Bird Flu
Health, HKSAR Government
(Avian H5N1 Influenza A)
Faculty of Medicine
412
Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases
Over the years, HTV situation in Hong Kong has
HIV-infected patients who are failing their current
been described as one of a low level epidemic in
ART regimen and have limited or no therapeutic
accordance with UNAIDS/WHO definition.
The
options. MK-0518 is an HIV integrase inhibitor in
main route of transmission is sexual contact.
phase III clinical development. To date there are no
Infection as a result of needle-sharing in injection
approved drugs that target the integration stage of the
drug users has so far been uncommon.
There were
HIV-1 lifecycle. Data from ongoing studies suggest
however recent reports of an increasing number of
that MK-0518 is generally safe and well tolerated and
men having sex with men (MSM) diagnosed with
has the promise to be a clinically effective therapeutic
HIV, alongside a higher prevalence in the very
option for chronic HIV infection in highly treatment
community.
experienced patients. Due to its novel mechanism
In response to the changing pattern of HIV
of action, potent efficacy and tolerability, patients
epidemiology, the current study aims to assess the
with advanced HIV and limited therapeutic options
risk of HTV spread among MSM in HK.
The
may benefit from early access to the drug. However,
research comprises a qualitative study involving the
it is important to carefully assess the risks versus
interview of MSM, care providers and people in the
potential benefits of using a drug before its safety
community.
profile has been completely characterized in clinical
This would be followed by a
self-administered
questionnaire
survey
administered on HIV infected MSM.
to
be
trials
The results
(MD06428)
would be integrated with that of other epidemiology
study, leading to an assessment report on the current
Characterisation of Sexual Networks of MSM
pattern, and the potential risk of future spread in the
Preceding HIV Infection
coming years.
(MD06777)
 LEE Shui Shan  TAM Ka Po
 1 June 2007
Early Access of MK-0518 in Combination with an
 Council for the AIDS Trust Fund
Optimized Background Antiretroviral Therapy
(OBT) in Highly Treatment Experienced HIV-1
The aim of the study is to determine the HIV
Infected Patients with Limited to No Treatment
transmission potential in men having sex with men
Options
(MSM) in Hong Kong, with the objectives of (a)
describing the social network configuration of MSM
 LEE Shui Shan

WU Che Yuen Justin
(Medicine & Therapeutics)

prior to infection and (b) developing a framework for
LEE Lai Shun
Nelson (Medicine & Therapeutics)

supporting case investigation.
CHOI Kin
A questionnaire is
constructed through an adaptation of the UNAIDS
Wing*
questionnaire for tracing sexual networks.
About
100 newly diagnosed HIV positive MSM would be
 7 May 2007
recruited from an HIV service of the Department of
 Merck Sharp & Dohme (Asia) Ltd
Health to join the study. The main themes of the
There is an acute medical need for novel and potent
study
antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ART experienced
relationship attributes, behavioural repertoire, and the
413
are:
demographics,
partners'
attributes,
Faculty of Medicine
Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases
types of establishments frequented by the subjects.
2004-05 Development of Interfering RNA Agents
Participants are asked to self-complete one part of the
to Inhibit SARS Associated Coronavirus
study and join an in -depth interview.
Infection and Replication (BL04674)
Analysis
 HE Mingliang
would be made on the network structures, behaviours
and the risk of HIV dissemination, and the correlation
of partnership attributes to behavioural risks.
2005-06 Development of Infectious HBV Rat
Ethical approval would be obtained from the Ethics
Model via AAV-Vector Mediated Gene
Committee of Chinese University of Hong Kong, and
Delivery (MD05419)
the Department of Health.
 HE Mingliang
(MD06659)
2005-06 Establishment
of
HIV-1
Assay
Replication
Please refer to previous issues of this publication
Capacity
for
Enhancing
for more details of the following ongoing research
Management of AIDS Patients in Hong
at the department:
Kong (MD06450)
 HE Mingliang  KUNG Hsiang Fu 
Edition
LEE Shui Shan  HUANG Yu*
Title/Investigators
2004-05 Molecular
2005-06 Characteristics of Circulating Cell-Free
Basis
for
the
Telomere
DNA in the Plasma (MD05439)
Dysfunction and Anti-Tumor Activities
 DING Chunming
LO Yuk Ming
of a C-terminal Polypeptide of Human
Pathology)
Telomerase
Dennis

(Chemical

Reverse
Transcriptase
LEUNG Tse Ngong (Obstetrics &
(hTERTC27) (MD03854)
Gynaecology)
 KUNG Hsiang Fu

LAU Tze Kin

LAM Lo Kuen
Cindy*  OHAYON Roger*
(Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Functional
2004-05 Functional Characterization of Makorin-2
Regulation of TBX3 in Retina Formation
and Its Interacting Proteins in Xenopus
(BS03524)
Embryonic Development (BL03394)
 HE Mingliang  KUNG Hsiang Fu
 KUNG Hsiang Fu
2004-05 Transcriptional
and
King*
2004-05 The
Mechanisms
of
a


HE Mingliang
TSUI Kwai

OHAYON
Roger*
Novel
HCC-associated Oncongene (HCAO) in
Hepatocellular
2004-05 The Proteomics of the Brains of Human
Carcinogenesis
(BL04361)
and Primate in Development (MD04603)
 HE Mingliang  KUNG Hsiang Fu
 KUNG Hsiang Fu

YEW Tai Wai
David (Anatomy)  FAWCELL JW*
Faculty of Medicine
414
Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases
2004-05 Characterizing
the
Role
of
2005-06 Novel Anti-HIV Drug: A Cyclosporine
PI3K
Signaling Cascade in Xenopus Neural
Anolog (MD06833)
Induction (BL04767)
 KUNG Hsiang Fu  HE Mingliang 
 KUNG Hsiang Fu
LEE Shui Shan
2004-05 Research and Development of a New
2005-06 Molecular Epidemiology of HIV in
TCM-Based Antidepressant (MD04822)
Injection Drug Users (MD05708)
 KUNG
 LEE Shui Shan
Hsiang
Fu

KONG
Lingdong#  LU Xiaobo

TSUI Kwok Wing
(Biochemistry (Medicine))

CHAN
Kay Sheung Paul (Microbiology)
2005-06 Research
into
Integrative
Medical
Sciences (MD05627)
 KUNG Hsiang Fu
Chang (Physiology)

CHAN Hsiao

POON Chuen
Wai (Medicine & Therapeutics)
415
Faculty of Medicine
The following symbols are used throughout the Research Projects section:
" Investigator(s)
‰ Commencement Date
™ Source(s) of Fund
*
Name of external researcher
#
Name of staff who has left the University as of 1 September 2007