Dr. Peter Wells

Professor

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Biography

Professor Peter Wells' laboratory focused on the molecular mechanisms of drug toxicities and diseases caused by the enzymatic bioactivation of relatively non-toxic drugs. Over a research career spanning 45 years, his work emphasized the role of reactive intermediates and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in irreversibly damaging proteins and DNA. Professor Wells' early research revealed that glucuronidation processes could reduce the toxicity of xenobiotics, such as drugs and environmental chemicals, by diverting these substances from bioactivation pathways that lead to toxic reactive intermediates. His studies have shown that the balance of enzymatic pathways that produce ROS versus those involved in detoxification critically influences individual susceptibility to various toxicities and diseases, including neurodegeneration and developmental disorders. Moreover, his lab's findings have highlighted the prenatal impacts of ROS on DNA damage and gene expression alterations, suggesting potential for postnatal treatments for neurodevelopmental disorders. Professor Wells has published extensively in premier journals covering molecular pharmacology and toxicology, contributing significantly to our understanding of the fields.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor Emeritus

1980-01-01 — 2025-12-31

Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto • Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Conducted research in molecular toxicology with a focus on the interaction of drugs and environmental chemicals with biological systems.

Awards

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Josef Warkany Lecturer Award

2021-02-01
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Scientific Achievement Award

2019-03-01
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Gabriel L. Plaa Award Distinction

2018-12-01

Requirements for University of Toronto

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:22
Speaking
Required:22
Total
Required:93
Prerequisites
Appropriate four-year bachelor's degree Background in sociological theory and statistics preferred
Application Checklist
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  • Statement of intent
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  • Curriculum Vitae
Specialization Notes

Department of Sociology