Exploring the potential sexual attraction has in repairing damaged brain cells has landed a University of Calgary scientist funding freedom to pursue the theory.

Dr. Samuel Weiss will receive more than $1 million over the next seven years in his bid to determine whether chemical messages emitted by animals to woo the opposite sex can be harnessed to repair brain-cell damage and give back the disabled use of their limbs.

"The support from the funding ensures a big chunk of my time can be devoted to this research -- it's what I love to do the most," said Weiss, director of the Hotchkiss Brain Institute.

He's one of 24 U of C scientists who'll split $26 million supplied by the Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research (AHFMR), which is spreading $59 million province-wide.

His theory is female animals grow new brain cells to better identify suitors and that the process could be used to mend damaged or deteriorated cells.

Other U of C researchers are exploring the use of computer chips to do such work, said Weiss, who wants to fast-track the science.

"My approach is using natural protiens ... if you could figure out how humans grow brain cells at a low level, you could figure out how to jump it up," he said.

Some of the natural approaches, he added "are already in clinical trials in Calgary."

Benefits of the research could also extend to mental health and brain cancer solutions, said Weiss.

Six other Calgary brain researchers received AHFMR funding -- a clear reflection of the quality of work being done here, said Weiss.

"The funding decision is evaluated on what you've accompished and what you're determined to do -- it's very competitive," he said.

"It's a major strength at our university."