Research at the University

Profiles of BBDC Members involved in diabetes related research (A - L):

On this page: A B C D E F G H I J K L

A

Adeli, Khosrow, PhD, FCACB, DABCC, FACB
Professor, Dept. of Biochemistry and Dept. of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology (U of T)
Division Head, Clinical Biochemistry, The Hospital For Sick Children

Address:	Hospital for Sick Children 555 University Avenue Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-813-8682 FAX: 416-813-6257 Khosrow.adeli@sickkids.ca www.sickkids.ca/adelilab/
Research Interests:	Lipoprotein Disorders in Insulin Resistant States, Metabolic Syndrome and Type 2 Diabetes. Areas of interest and active research in our laboratory include: Mechanistic studies of the link between diabetes and the increased risk of cardiovascular disease; Mechanisms of metabolic dyslipidemia in insulin resistant states; Molecular biology of atherogenic lipoproteins and apolipoprotein B and involvement in the development of atherosclerosis; Mechanistic links between childhood obesity, insulin resistance, and the risk of development of premature atherosclerosis; mechanisms of action of hypolipidemic drugs at the cellular and molecular level.
Publications:	Wong, D.M., Webb J.P., Malinowsky, P.M., Macri, J., Adeli, K. Proteomic profiling of the prechylomicron transport vesicle involved in the assembly of apoB-48-containing chylomicrons in the intestinal enterocytes. Proteomics 2009 July: 9)14): 3698-711. Hsieh, J., Longuet, C., Maida, A., Bahrami, J., Xu, E., Baker, C.L., Brubaker, P.L., Drucker, D.J., Adeli, K. Glucagon-like peptide-2 increases intestinal lipid absorption and Chylomicron production via CD36. Gastroenterology 2009 Sept.; 139(3): 997-1005. Su, Q., Tsai, J., Xu, E., Qiu, W., Bereczki, E., Santha, M., Adeli, K. Apolipoprotein B100 acts as a molecular link between lipid-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and hepatic insulin resistance. Hepatology 2009 July; 50(1): 77-84.

Advani, Andrew, BSc, MBChB(Hons), MRCP(UK), PhD
Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism (U of T)
Scientist, Keenan Research Centre of the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, and Staff Endocrinologist,
St. Michael's Hospital

Address:	St. Michael's Hospital, 6-137 61 Queen Street East Toronto, Ontario M5C 2T2
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-864-6060 Ext. 8413 FAX: 416-867-7495 advania@smh.toronto.on.ca http://www.stmichaelshospital.com/research/profile.php?id=advani&
Research Interests:	My research interests relate to the molecular pathobiology of diabetic complications and in particular kidney disease in diabetes. Diabetic nephropathy is the commonest cause of kidney failure in Canada. Our laboratory is committed to finding new treatments to slow or even reverse the progression of kidney disease. Our research is truly translational, studying the cellular processes involved in the development of the cardiovascular complications of diabetes and investigating the action of novel therapies both in vitro and in vivo. Through this, we hope to bring new treatments directly from the bench to the bedside. My research is focused on the critical role of high blood pressure in the progression of kidney disease and I am studying new ways to stimulate endothelial regeneration, the repair of the small blood vessels, damaged due to diabetes. Clinically, I have an interest in all aspects of diabetes care and especially complications and I have a weekly diabetes clinic. I am also a tutor on the Problem-based learning course in Nutrition and Metabolism at the University of Toronto and St. Michael's Hospital.
Publications:

Azad, Azar, PhD
Lecturer, Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology (U of T)

Address:	Mount Sinai Hospital 600 University Avenue, 6th floor Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-586-8545 FAX: 416-586-5950 aazad@mtsinai.on.ca
Research Interests:
Publications:

B

Backx, Peter, DVM, PhD
Professor, Departments of Physiology and Medicine (U of T)
Senior Scientist, University Health Network
Director, Mouse Physiology Laboratory, Heart & Stroke Richard Lewar Centre

Address:	Heart & Stroke/ Richard Lewar Centre Room 68, Fitzgerald Building, 150 College St. Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E2
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-946-8112 FAX: 416-946-8380 p.backx@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	Our laboratory studies focuses on ion channel structure and function as well as ion channel regulation in order to better understand the electrical properties of excitable cells such as cardiomyocytes, pancreatic beta cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. Our investigations also explore the alterations in ion channels and electrical properties that occur in diseases such as heart failure, hypertension and diabetes.
Publications:

Baines, Andrew D.
Professor, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology (U of T)

Address:	University of Toronto 100 College Street Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L5
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-978-5651 FAX: 416-978-5650 andrew.baines@utoronto.ca www.lmp.facmed.utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	Autonomic nervous system and the kidney in hypertension and diabetes.
Publications:

Bazinet, Richard P., PhD
Assistant Professor, Department of Nutritional Sciences (U of T)

Address:	FitzGerald Building 150 College St. , Room 306 Toronto , Ontario M5S 3E2
PhoneFAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-946-8276 FAX: 416-978-5882 richard.bazinet@utoronto.ca www.utoronto.ca/nutrisci/faculty/Bazinet/
Research Interests:	Regulation of tissue uptake and metabolism/signaling properties of fatty acids, especially within the brain. Genetic and dietary regulation of plasma fatty acid concentrations.
Publications:

Belsham, Denise, PhD
Canada Research Chair in Neuroendocrinology, CFI Researcher (U of T)
Associate Professor, Department of Physiology (U of T)
Scientist, Division of Cellular & Molecular Biology, Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network

Address:	University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building 1 King's College Circle, Room 3247A Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web sites:	416-946-7646 FAX: 416-978-4940 d.belsham@utoronto.ca Department of Physiology website profile University Health Network website profile
Research Interests:	Obesity is a major global health concern and is a major risk factor for other disorders, including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. A complex neuronal system has evolved to maintain energy homeostasis. Leptin, ghrelin, glucose, and insulin are known peripheral signals that act to regulate feeding and energy balance by modulating the expression of neuropeptides in the brain, specifically the hypothalamus. The afferent hormones leptin and insulin have common physiological response and intracellular signaling mechanisms. However, leptin does not appear to be the cure for obesity, as most obese humans develop "leptin resistance". Further, many obese patients also acquire insulin resistance, sometimes leading to type 2 diabetes. My laboratory has recently generated a number of cell models representing other specific cell types from the hypothalamus. We have a strong track record of neuroendocrine research, and have now expanded our research program to include the study of neuropeptides involved in both reproduction and energy homeostasis. Currently half of my research efforts are directed towards studies related to the function of the GnRH neuron and the other half has extended our research program to include studies of many of the neuropeptide-expressing neurons involved in energy homeostasis. These include neuropeptide Y, neurotensin, brain ghrelin, brain insulin, and proopiomelanocortin. Importantly, there is also a direct relationship between nutritional status and reproduction, therefore my research program is poised to utilize all the information gained to provide insight into the complex nature of integrated neuroendocrine control of basic physiology.
Publications:

Bendeck, Michelle, PhD
Associate Professor, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology (U of T)

Address:	University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building 1 King's College Circle, Room 6213 Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-946-7133 FAX: 416-978-5959 michelle.bendeck@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	The main focus of research in my lab is on atherosclerosis and specifically on interactions between cells and extracellular matrix during vascular remodeling. We are investigating mechanisms of vessel wall thickening and remodeling using experimental models of arterial injury in mouse, rat and rabbit, studying the role of extracellular matrix, cell-surface integrin receptors, the novel discoidin-domain receptors and MMPs in mediating SMC responses. In collaboration with Dr. Adria Giacca, we are studying the effect of high glucose and insulin on SMC growth and matrix remodeling in atherosclerosis.
Publications:

Booth, Gillian, Bsc, MSc, MD, FRCPC
Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism (U of T)

Address:	St. Michael's Hospital 61 Queen St. E., 6th Floor Toronto, Ontario M5C 2T2
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-867-3719 FAX: boothg@smh.toronto.on.ca
Research Interests:
Publications:

Boright, Andrew, MD
Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism (U of T)

Address:	Toronto General Hospital 200 Elizabeth Street, EN 12 Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C4
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-340-5219 FAX: 416-340-3314 Andrew.Boright@uhn.on.ca
Research Interests:	The focus of my research is in the genetics of type 1 diabetes and its related complications. Current investigations include identifying candidate genes that are involved in the development of diabetic nephropathy, retinopathy and cardiovascular traits in the DCCT/EDIC (Diabetes Control and Complication Trial/Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications ) cohort. Our methods include family based association studies.
Publications:

Boyd, Shelley R., MD
Assistant Professor, Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Sciences (U of T)

Address:	St. Michael's Hospital, Ophthalmology Research 30 Bond Street, Room 9015, Queen Wing Toronto, Ontario M5B 1W8
Phone: E-mail:	Office: 416-864-6060 Ext. 3138 Lab: 416-864-6060 Ext. 6550 boyds@smh.toronto.on.ca
Research Interests:	Our research focuses on the NeuroVascular aspects of visual loss in diabetes. From a clinical point of view, we challenge the dogma that diabetic retinopathy is a disease of the retinal vessels exclusively. Working in collaboration with the Hospital for Sick Children we are evaluating the changes in neuronal function, from retina to visual cortex, that precede detectable vascular change. In the laboratory, we are studying the molecular signaling that occurs between endothelial cells and neuroglial cells. Our current studies emphasize the differential signaling of VEGF and VEGF receptors1 and 2 on endothelial precursor cells and retinal stem cells. Changes in this signaling, in diabetic versus non-diabetic conditions, are being addressed.
Publications:

Brubaker, Patricia L., PhD
Professor and Canada Research Chair, Departments of Physiology and Medicine (U of T)

Address:	University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle Medical Sciences Building, Room 3366 Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web sites:	416-978-2593 FAX: 416-978-2593 p.brubaker@utoronto.ca http://www.physiology.utoronto.ca/res/list/brubaker.htm
Research Interests:	The major interests of the Brubaker laboratory relate to the synthesis, secretion and biological activities of gut hormones and, in particular, the intestinal glucagon-like peptides, GLP-1 and GLP-2. These hormones play important roles in the regulation insulin and glucagon secretion, beta cell proliferation, intestinal growth and function, and food intake. GLP-1 mimetics have recently been approved for the treatment of patients with Type 2 diabetes, while phase III clinical trials are underway for the use of GLP-2 in the treatment of patients with intestinal insufficiency. Some of the areas that are currently under investigation in the lab include: Regulation of GLP-1 and GLP-2 synthesis and secretion by the intestine, with particular focus on dietary nutrients and intracellular signaling pathways; and Mechanisms of action of GLP-1 and GLP-2 to stimulate beta cell and intestinal growth, respectively, with a major emphasis on the roles of novel intra- and extracellular mediators of these effects, as well as possible carcinogenic effects. Students and fellows utilize a wide-variety of approaches to investigate the physiology and pathophysiology of the glucagon-like peptides, including normal and genetically-modified animals, cell culture and imaging approaches, in combination with tissue and cellular analyses at the mRNA and protein level.
Publications:	Lim GE, Huang GJ, Flora N, LeRoith D, Rhodes CJ, Brubaker PL. Insulin regulates glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion from the enteroendocrine L cell. Endocrinology 2009 150:580-591. Lim GE, Xu M, Sun J, Jin T, Brubaker PL. The rho guanosine 5'-triphosphatase, cell division cycle 42, is required for insulin-induced actin remodeling and glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion in the intestinal endocrine L cell. Endocrinology. 2009 150:5249-61. Lauffer LM, Iakoubov R, Brubaker PL. GPR119 is essential for oleoylethanolamide-induced glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion from the intestinal enteroendocrine L-cell. Diabetes. 2009 58:1058-66.

C

Carlen, Peter, MD, FRCPC
Professor, Departments of Medicine (Neurology), Physiology, and IBBME (U of T)
Co-Director, Epilepsy Program, University Health Network
Senior Scientist, Toronto Western Research Institute

Address:	Toronto Western Research Institute 399 Bathurst St., Room 12-413 Toronto, Ontario M5T 2S8
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-603-5017 or 416-603-5044 FAX: 416-603-5768 carlen@uhnres.utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	My diabetes research interests centre on the study of the pathogenesis of hypoglycemic seizures. I am a clinical neurologist and cellular electrophysiologist with a primary research interest in epilepsy.
Publications:

Cherney, David, MD, CM, PhD, FRCPC
Assistant Professor of Medicine (U of T)
Clinician Scientist - Division of Nephrology, University Health Network

Address:	University Health Network 585 University Ave, 8N-845 Toronto, Ontario M5G 2N2
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-340-4151 FAX: 416-340-4999 david.cherney@uhn.on.ca
Research Interests:	I am a human translational physiologist at the University of Toronto, located at the University Health Network. My goal of my research program is to elucidate physiologic mechanisms associated with the progression of nephropathy and cardiovascular disease in humans with diabetes mellitus. These pathways include the renin angiotensin and nitric oxide systems, and their relationship to vascular (endothalial function/arterial stiffness) and molecular biomarkers (skin tissue and urine proteomic) of cardiorenal risk.
Publications:

Cheung, Angela, MD, PhD, FRCP(C)
Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Div. of Endocrinology and Div. of General Internal Medicine, (U of T)
Director, UHN / MSH Osteoporosis Program
Associate Director, UHN Women's Health Program

Address:	Toronto General Hospital 200 Elizabeth Street, 7EN - 221 Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C4
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-340-4301 FAX: 416-340-4105 angela.cheung@uhn.on.ca
Research Interests:	I am studying the link between bone and glucose and energy metabolism. A recent Cell article suggested that osteocalcin, a bone protein, is involved in glucose and energy metabolism. Osteocalcin is a vitamin K dependent protein and I have a large project looking at the interaction between osteocalcin, vitamin K and glucose and energy metabolism.
Publications:

Cohn, Tony, MBChB, MSc, FRCPC
Assistant Professor, Departments of Psychiatry and Nutritional Sciences,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto
Staff Psychiatrist, Schizophrenia Program; Director, Mental Health and Metabolism Clinic, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

Address:	Centre for Addiction and Mental Health 1001 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario M6J 1H4
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	(416) 535-8501, Ext. 2573 FAX: (416) 944-9679 tony_cohn@camh.net
Research Interests:	Clinical and research interests in relationship between type 2 diabetes, serious mental illness such as schizophrenia and the medications (including atypical antipsychotic medications) used to treat serious mental illness. I recently completed a graduate degree in Nutritional Sciences with Tom Wolever. Interests include: Diabetes monitoring/ surveillance in the seriously mentally ill, mechanisms underlying illness and medication related factors contributing to type 2 diabetes, obesity and diabetes interventions for the seriously mentally ill.
Publications:

Colton, Patricia, MD
Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry (U of T)

Address:	Toronto General Hospital 200 Elizabeth St., 7 Eaton South Rm. 409 Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C4
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-340-3477 FAX: 416-340-3430 patricia.colton@uhn.on.ca
Research Interests:	I am engaged in research related to psychosocial adjustment to diabetes, particularly risk for eating disorders and depression. I collaborate with Dr. Denis Daneman at Hospital for Sick Children, and we are conducting a longitudinal study of eating disturbances, depression, psychosocial functioning and medical status in girls and women with type 1 diabetes.
Publications:

Connelly, Philip
Associate Professor, Departments of Medicine and Biochemistry (U of T)

Address:	St. Michael's Hospital 30 Bond Street Toronto, Ontario M5B 1W8
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-864-6023 FAX: 416-864-5870 connellyp@smh.toronto.on.ca
Research Interests:
Publications:

Cummins, Carolyn L., PhD
Assistant Professor, Faculty of Pharmacy (U of T)

Address:	144 College Street, Room 1101 Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-946-3466 FAX: 416-978-8511 Carolyn.Cummins@utoronto.ca http://phm.utoronto.ca/~cummins/
Research Interests:	Several members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily have been implicated in protecting against diseases associated with the metabolic syndrome. For example, from data obtained using animal models, it appears the liver X receptors (LXRa and LXRb) are protective against atherosclerosis, dyslipidemia, and diabetes. The current focus of the Cummins lab is on the study of these nuclear hormone receptors and their roles in regulating glucose metabolism. Recently, we have shown that LXRa is involved in the regulation of cholesterol conversion to glucocorticoids in the adrenal gland and are investigating the influence of this finding on glucose metabolism and the onset of type 2 diabetes. We are also exploring the link between LXR and the deposition of cholesterol in the glomeruli of the kidney in diabetic nephropathy.
Publications:	Zhang, Y., Chan, J. and Cummins, C. L. Liver X receptors as therapeutic targets for managing cholesterol: Implications for atherosclerosis and other inflammatory conditions. Current Lipidol. 2009 4: 29-40. Cummins C.L., Volle D.H., Zhang Y, McDonald J.G., Sion B, Lefrançois-Martinez A.M., Caira F, Veyssière G, Mangelsdorf D.J., Lobaccaro J.M. Liver X receptors regulate adrenal cholesterol balance. J Clin Invest. 2006 116:1902-12.

Cybulsky, Myron
Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology (U of T)

Address:	Toronto General Hospital 200 Elizabeth Street Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C4
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-340-3578 FAX: 416-340-3578 myron.cybulsky@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:
Publications:

D

Daneman, Denis
Professor, Department of Pediatrics, IMS (U of T)

Address:	Hospital for Sick Children 555 University Avenue Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-813-6217 FAX: 416-813-6304 denis.daneman@sickkids.on.ca
Research Interests:	My research has focused on three main areas: 1) Eating disorders in adolescent females with type 1 diabetes. Our group has shown that these disorders are about twice as common in these females as in their non-diabetic peers, contribute to poor metabolic control and early onset of microvascular complications, and are to treat. Ongoing research aims to determine which factors predispose to the development of eating pathology and how these may best be modified. 2) Epidemiology of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and its complications. We have used administrative databases to determine the frequency of DKA in the Province of Ontario, as well as factors that may be associated with DKA at disease onset. We have also conducted a population-based study of cerebral edema in Canada. 3) Factors affecting metabolic control in children and teens with diabetes. Current studies include assessment of the use of insulin sensitizing agents in modualting the insulin resistance of puberty.
Publications:

Danska, Jayne
Professor, Department of Immunology and Department of Medical Biophysics (U of T)
Senior Scientist, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute

Address:	MaRS/Toronto Medical Discovery Tower 101 College Street, Room 14-313 Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-813-8810 FAX: 416-813-8823 jayne.danska@sickkids.ca www.sickkids.ca/danskalab/
Research Interests:	Our immunogenetics lab focuses on the functional genomics of Type 1 Diabetes in rodent models and human disease. T1D afflicts 0.3 - 0.6 per cent of North Americans. Despite availability of therapeutic insulin. the disease is associated with significant morbidity. T1D is a multifactorial disease caused by genetic variation at multiple loci, few of them identified at the molecular level. The objective of our Type 1 diabetes (T1D) research program is to understand the autoimmune response that results in the death of b-islet cells, and to identify the genes that control this process in mouse models and in human patients.
Publications:

De Melo, Margaret, BSc, RD, CDE
Professional Practice Leader-Clinical Nutrition, Allied Health
University Health Network

Address:	Toronto Western Hospital 399 Bathurst Street, 1WW-443 Toronto, Ontario M5T 2S8
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-603-5800 Ext. 5973 FAX: 416-603-5210 margaret.demelo@uhn.on.ca
Research Interests:	I am interested in research that focuses on diabetes self-care management (DSM). As part of interprofessional research teams, I have studied the effectiveness of DSM education programs, utilization and attrition such programs, food insecurity in Canadians with diabetes, and gender differences, psychosocial and clinical factors that help us better understand and serve those affected by diabetes.
Publications:	Gucciardi E, Vogt J, De Melo M, Stewart D. An exploration of the relationship between household food insecurity and diabetes mellitus in Canada. Diabetes Care (2009) 32 (12) 2218-2224. Gucciardi*, M. DeMelo, G. Booth, G. Tomlinson and D. E. Stewart. Education and psychological aspects Individual and contextual factors associated with follow-up use of diabetes self-management education programmes: a multisite prospective analysis. Diabetic Medicine. (2009) 26: 510–517

Dennis, James W., PhD
Canada Research Chair
Professor, Department of Molecular Genetics (U of T)
Senior Investigator, Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital

Address:	Mount Sinai Hospital 600 University Ave., R988 Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5
Phone: E-mail: Web site:	416-586-8233 DENNIS@lunenfeld.ca Dennis Lab website
Research Interests:	We have demonstrated that adaptive changes in Golgi N-glycan processing in mammalian cells regulates surface levels of growth factor receptors (EGF and TGF-b receptors) and the glucose transporter GLUT4 (Lau, K. et al. Cell 2007). Glucose, acetyl-CoA and glutamine are substrates of the hexosamine pathway to UDP-GlcNAc, a key substrate in the biosynthesis of N-glycans found on cell surface receptors and transporters. Our research is focused on the effects of hexosamine and Golgi pathway on tissue homeostasis using the Mgat5 mouse models, where Mgat5-/- mice are hypoglycaemic, resistant to weight-gain on a calorie-enriched diet, hypersensitive to fasting, increased oxidative respiration and reduced fecundity. Mgat5-/- mice have fewer muscle satellite cells and osteogenic activity in bone marrow, and accelerated loss of muscle and bone mass with aging. We are studying the interaction between metabolic regulation of Golgi N-glycan processing, sensitivity to cytokines, liver function, tissue renewal and longevity.
Publications:

Dhe-Paganon, Sirano, PhD
Assistant Professor, Department of Physiology (U of T)
Principal Investigator, Structural Genomics Consortium

Address:	MaRS Research Center South Tower, Suite 700 101 College Street Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-946-3876 FAX: 416-946-0588 sirano.dhepaganon@utoronto.ca Lab web site
Research Interests:	We are using structural enzymology to fill a gap between the science of proteins implicated in diabetes and the clinic. By understanding how proteins function at a molecular level, we provide insights into novel strategies for drug discovery and development. Studying paralogous targets allows us to better understand biological specificity and facilitate the development of potent therapeutics. Notably, we are studying the ubiquitylation system, an emerging field implicated in metabolic diseases.
Publications:	Avvakumov GV, Walker JR, Xue S, Li Y, Duan S, Bronner C, Arrowsmith CH, Dhe-Paganon S (2008). Structural basis for recognition of hemi-methylated DNA by the SRA domain of human UHRF1. Nature 455: 822-825 Choi Y, Syeda F, Walker JR, Finerty PJ, Jr., Cuerrier D, Wojciechowski A, Liu Q, Dhe-Paganon S, Gray NS (2009). Discovery and structural analysis of Eph receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 19: 4467-4470 Qiu L, Pashkova N, Walker JR, Winistorfer S, Allali-Hassani A, Akutsu M, Piper R, Dhe-Paganon S (2009). Structure and function of the PLAA/Ufd3-p97/Cdc48 complex. J Biol Chem 285: 365-372

Donnelly, Sandra, MD
Associate Professor, Department of Medicine (U of T)
Staff Nephrologist, St. Michael's Hospital

Address:	St. Michael's Health Centre 61 Queen Street East, 7th Floor Toronto, Ontario M5C 2T2
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-867-7467 FAX: 416-867-3654 sandra.donnelly@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	Co-investigator RASS Study, Mount Sinai Hospital High risk feet in end-stage renal disease (sponsored by Janssen-Ortho)
Publications:

Dosch, Hans-Michael, MD, PhD
Department of Immunology (U of T)

Address:	Division of Immunology & Cancer Research The Hospital for Sick Children 555 University Avenue Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-813-6260 FAX: 416-813-6255 hmdosch@sickkids.on.ca www.immunology.utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	Pathogenesis and prevention of Type I diabetes mellitus.
Publications:

Drucker, Daniel J., MD, FRCPC
Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology & Metabolism (U of T)
Director, Banting and Best Diabetes Centre (U of T)

Address:	Mount Sinai Hospital, Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute 600 University Ave., TCP5-1004 Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X5
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web sites:	416-361-2661 FAX: 416-361-2669 d.drucker@utoronto.ca www.glucagon.com and www.mythyroid.com
Research Interests:	Research in the Drucker lab is focused on understanding the biology of gut hormones, with a major focus on GIP and the glucagon-like peptides. The lab studies how glucagon, GLP-1, and GLP-2 regulate energy homeostasis, metabolic control, and cardiovascular function via effects on the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, cardiovascular system and central nervous system. Specific projects include physiological analyses of GIP, oxyntomodulin, GLP-1 and GLP-2 action, and elucidation of the functional control of glucagon, GIP, GLP-1 and GLP-2 action through studies of their respective receptors. Students and research fellows utilize a combination of techniques that involve cell culture, gene transfection, studies of signal transduction, generation of transgenic or knockout mice, and studies of rodent models of glucagon-like peptide action with a focus on diabetes, obesity, endocrine systems, and intestinal disease.
Publications:	Maida, A., Hansotia, T., Longuet, C., Seino, Y., Drucker, D. J. Differential importance of GIP vs. GLP-1 receptor signaling for beta cell survival in mice. Gastroenterology 2009 137 (6), December 2009, 2146-2157 Yusta B., Holland D., Koehler J.A., Maziarz M., Estall J.L., Higgins R., Drucker D.J. ErbB signaling is required for the proliferative actions of GLP-2 in the murine gut. Gastroenterology 2009 Sep;137(3):986-96. Koehler J.A., Baggio L.L., Lamont B.J., Ali S., Drucker D.J. GLP-1 receptor activation modulates pancreatitis-associated gene expression but does not modify the susceptibility to experimental pancreatitis in mice. Diabetes 2009 58:2148-2161

E

Elsholtz, Harry P.
Associate Professor, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology (U of T)

Address:	MaRS/Toronto Medical Discovery Tower 101 College Street, Room 10-702 Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1L7
Phone: E-mail:	416-978-8782 or 416-340-4205 h.elsholtz@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	Signal Transduction and Endocrine Gene Regulation in the Pituitary. The anterior pituitary produces polypeptide hormones critical for growth, , reproduction and homeostasis in vertebrate organisms. We are studying how genes that encode the pituitary hormones are controlled, and particularly how regulatory DNA elements and specific nuclear proteins confer responses to developmental and physiological signals. Our studies have focused on Pit-1, a nuclear DNA-binding protein conserved in all vertebrates from fish to humans. Structurally related to the embryonic 'homeobox' regulators that determine body patterning in insects, Pit-1 activates transcription of specific hormone genes, including prolactin, growth hormone, and the thyroid-stimulating hormone (-subunit. In humans, mutations that disrupt Pit-1 function cause hypoplastic pituitary development and combined pituitary hormone deficiency; dwarfism and cretinism can result. By analyzing the structure and function of transcription regulators such as Pit-1, we want to better define the mechanism of hormone gene regulation in the pituitary and differentiation of specific endocrine cell types. Neurotransmitters and peptides from the hypothalamus regulate the release of pituitary hormones and also control synthesis of these hormones at the transcriptional level. Dopamine, for example, is a potent inhibitor of prolactin gene transcription and its analogs can be used therapeutically in the management of prolactin-secreting tumors. Dopamine regulates prolactin gene function by binding to specific G-protein coupled receptors. We are interested in how the signals from activated G proteins lead to changes in gene transcription in endocrine cells, and how cell-type specific effector proteins mediate or attenuate these signals.
Publications:

F

Fantus, George, MD, FRCPC
Professor, Departments of Medicine and Physiology (U of T)

Address:	Mount Sinai Hospital 60 Murray Street Lebovic Building, 5^th Floor, Room 5028 Toronto, Ontario M5T 3L9
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-586-8665 FAX: 416-361-2657 gfantus@mtsinai.on.ca
Research Interests:	The major research focus of our lab is to define the mechanisms of insulin resistance at the cellular and molecular level. The goal is to develop new approaches to treatment and prevention of insulin resistance. Studies in insulin target tissues, adipocytes and muscle cells, rendered insulin resistant by metabolites, e.g. glucose and free fatty acids; cytokines, e.g TNF-a; and hormones, e.g. insulin and angiotension, are carried out to determine changes in enzyme activation, in protein-protein interactions and glucose transporter translocation. The lab is also conducting research to define the abnormalities of cell signaling caused by exposure to high glucose. The goal here is to define the pathogenetic changes contributing to diabetic nephropathy. Studies in mesangial cells and in diabetic rodent models are addressing novel mechanisms by which alterations in the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway, oxidative stress, and cell signaling cause high glucose-mediated changes which trigger diabetic nephropathy. A third and related research project is designed to elucidate the nature of the relationship between insulin resistance (hyperinsulinemia) and cancer. Studies in breast cancer prone mice are being performed to define the changes in tumor development, growth and cell signaling induced by a high fat diet as well as by agents which modify insulin resistance.
Publications:	Masson, E., Koren, S., Razik, F., Goldberg, H., Kwan, E.P., Sheu, L., Gaisano, H.Y., Fantus, I.G. High beta-cell mass prevents streptozotocin-induced diabetes in thioredoxin-interacting protein-deficient mice. Am. J. Physiol. Endo. Metab. 206:E1251-E1261, 2009. Whiteside, C., Wang, H., Xia, L., Munk, S., Goldberg, H.J., Fantus, I.G. Rosiglitazone prevents high glucose-induced vascular endothelial growth factor and collagen IV expression in cultured mesangial cells. Exp. Res. Rev. 2009: 910783, 2009. Khalid S, Hwang D, Babichev Y, Kolli R, Altamentova S, Koren S, Goodwin PJ, Ennis M,Pollak M, Sonenberg N, Fantus IG. Evidence for a tumor promoting effect of high fat diet independent of insulin resistance in HER2/Neu mammary carcinogenesis. Breast Can Res Treat (Epub ahead of print).

Farine, Dan, MD
Professor, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology (U of T)

Address:	Mount Sinai Hospital 600 University Ave., 3rd Floor, Suite 3286 Toronto, Ontario M5G 1Z5
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-586-8592 FAX: 416-586-8740 dfarine@mtsinai.on.ca
Research Interests:	My research interests relating to diabetes are in the area of gestational diabetes (GDM). We are involved now in the following areas: Formulating the guidelines for obstetricians for screening for GDM Evaluating women's attitudes towards the risks of GDM and screening Organizing a large clinical trial to assess the effect of screening and managing GDM on short and long term outcome for both mother and baby.
Publications:

Feig, Denice, MD, MSc
Associate Professor, Dept. of Medicine; Dept. of Obstetrics & Gynecology; Dept. of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (U of T)

Address:	Mount Sinai Hospital 600 University Avenue, Lebovic Building, Room 5-027 Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-586-8590 FAX: 416-361-2657 dfeig@mtsinai.on.ca
Research Interests:	My research interests relate to diabetes in pregnancy. We recently completed a study looking at the long term outcomes of women with type 1 and 2 diabetes who participated in our Diabetes in Pregnancy Program. We found that, although women retained much of the knowledge they had learned, and had improved their glycemic control during pregnancy, postpartum their glycemic control was not improved. One possible reason for this was their inability to continue to do frequent self-monitoring of blood glucose. This study will be published in Diabetes Care in 2006. We also recently completed a study looking at the incidence of type 1 and 2 diabetes in pregnancy in Ontario . We found that the proportion of deliveries in women with diabetes increased steadily from 0.8% in 1996 to 1.2% in 2001. We also found that women with diabetes in pregnancy continue to have higher obstetrical complication and intervention rates than women without diabetes, and many do not receive recommended specialty care during pregnancy. This study will be published in Diabetes Care in 2006. We are currently looking at the rate of development of type 2 diabetes after having had gestational diabetes in a pregnancy.
Publications:

Fox, Ann, MHSc, PhD, RD
Senior Lecturer, Department of Nutritional Sciences (U of T)

Address:	Department of Nutritional Sciences FitzGerald Building, Room 141 150 College Street Toronto, ON M5S 3E2
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-978-3617 FAX: ann.fox@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:
Publications:

Fu, Lei, PhD, DABCC, FACB, FCACB
Lecturer, Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology (U of T)
Department of Clinical Pathology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

Address:	Department of Clinical Pathology Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre Room B204, 2075 Bayview Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-323-6400 Ext. 4427 FAX: 416-323-2665 lei.fu@sunnybrook.ca
Research Interests:	To study the molecular relationship between vitamin D endocrine system and diabetes.
Publications:

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Gaisano, Herbert Y., MD
Professor, Departments of Medicine and Physiology (U of T)

Address:	University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building 1 King's College Circle, Room 7226 and 7310 Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-978-1526 FAX: 416-978-8765 herbert.gaisano@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	My research is focused on the molecular mechanisms which regulate exocytosis, where we use islet cells as major models. We were one of the first to have hypothesized and demonstrated that that molecules collectively called SNARE proteins involved in highly regulated neurotransmitter release in mammalian neurons to be conserved in non-neuronal cells to regulate secretion. We have also contributed much of the original work showing how these SNARE proteins physically and functionally interact with a number of islet beta cell ion channels (Kv, KATP, Ca2+) to regulate the intricate sequence of ion fluxes, membrane potential and exocytotic fusion events leading to secretion. Our current efforts are directed at: 1) SNARE proteins which regulate compound exocytosis in beta cells; 2) insulin granule priming and tethering proteins; 3) islet alpha cell secretory mechanisms and crosstalk with beta cells in health and diabetes; and 4) SNARE-KATP channel interactions in beta cells and cardiac myocytes. This lab has in place the full spectrum of functional assays for islet cells, including islet perifusion assays, single cell analyses by state-of-the-art patch clamp electrophysiology, capacitance measurements, digital fluorescence imaging of single granule exocytosis (TIRFM and confocal microscopy) and cytoplasmic ion fluxes. This lab also has full capabilities to perform other islet cell biology assays (islet isolation, examining intact islets within pancreatic slices, E.M.), biochemistry (immunoprecipitation, FRET analysis), molecular biology (site-specific mutatgenesis), and gene transfer (adenovirus construction). Graduate students and postdocs are welcome to apply. Our research is currently funded by CIHR, CDA, JDRF, NIH, and HSFO.
Publications:

Giacca, Adria
Professor, Department of Physiology and Department of Medicine (U of T)

Address:	University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building 1 King's College Circle, Room 3336 Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-978-0167 FAX: 416-978-4373 adria.giacca@utoronto.ca http://www.physiology.utoronto.ca/res/list/giacca.htm
Research Interests:	The primary theme of A.G.'s research is the investigation of the effects of excess circulating energy substrates, in particular free fatty acids, on insulin action, secretion and kinetics, and the implication of these effects for the pathogenesis of diabetes. Secondary themes of research are the studies of the effects of nutrient and insulin excess on : i) the proliferation of normal and tumorous colonic epithelial cells; ii) vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation in vivo.
Publications:	Breen DM, Chan KK, Dhaliwall JK, Ward MR, Al Koudsi N, Lam L, De Souza M, Ghanim H, Dandona P, Stewart DJ, Bendeck MP, Giacca A. Insulin increases reendothelialization and inhibits cell migration and neointimal growth after arterial injury. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2009 Jul;29(7):1060-6. PMID: 19359661 Xiao C, Giacca A, Lewis GF. The effect of high-dose sodium salicylate on chronically elevated plasma non-esterified fatty acid-induced insulin resistance and {beta}-cell dysfunction. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2009 Sep 15. PMID: 19755670

Gilbert, Richard Ernest, MBBS, PhD, FRACP, FRCPC
Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism (U of T)

Address:	St. Michael's Hospital 61 Queen Street East, Room 6-138 Toronto, ON M5C 2T2
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-867-3747 FAX: 416-867-3681 richard.gilbert@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	Using animal models of diabetes, our research focuses on the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy, retinopathy and cardiomyopathy, aiming to develop new therapies that would be directly applicable to humans.
Publications:

Gotlieb, Avrum I.
Professor and Chair, Dept. of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology (U of T)

Address:	Room 110, 100 College Street Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L5
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-978-2557 FAX: 416-978-7361 avrum.gotlieb@utoronto.ca www.lmp.facmed.utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	Atherosclerosis, Vascular Biology, Heart Valve Cell Biology, and Cardiovascular Pathology
Publications:

Greenwood, Carol
Professor, Department of Nutritional Sciences (U of T)

Address:	Dept. of Nutritional Sciences FitzGerald Building, 150 College Street Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E2
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-978-4261 FAX: 416-978-5882 carol.greenwood@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	My research interest relates to studies examining the impact of dietary practices on cognitive function with aging. Type 2 diabetes is considered a risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia, including Alzheimer's Disease. We are interested in the relationships by which diet contributes to the development of insulin resistance and/or type 2 diabetes and how this relates to cognitive function. Our animal studies show that both the chronic consumption of high fat diets and an age-related development of poor glucose tolerance are associated with cognitive deficits. These data are consistent with our human studies demonstrating that static estimates of insulin resistance and beta-cell function are correlated with measures of cognitive performance. Indeed it now appears that cognitive deficits become apparent during early stages of diabetes development (prior to attaining clinical criterion used for diagnosis) and that these deficits worsen in association with declining glucose regulatory status. The cognitive deficits observed in adults with type 2 diabetes can be further exacerbated in association with the consumption of carbohydrate foods. Indeed, we hypothesize that the hyperglycemia experienced during the post-absorptive period is contributing to this further impairment in performance. Our current studies are examining the relationship between food-induced changes in circulating blood glucose levels and cognitive function in adults with type 2 diabetes.
Publications:

Grynpas, Marc, PhD
Professor, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology
Director, Bone and Mineral Group (U of T)

Address:	Mount Sinai Hospital 600 University Avenue, Lab 840 Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X5
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web Site:	416-586-4800 Ext:4464 FAX: 416-586-1554 Grynpas@lunenfeld.ca www.mshri.on.ca/grynpas/default.asp
Research Interests:	Our research focuses on the effects of diabetes on the skeletal system using pre-clinical models. Examples of our research includes: Effect of Vanadium Treatment on Bone Loss and Bone Quality in Rat Models of Diabetes. Vanadium compounds have been shown to be effective in experimental diabetes and insulin-resistant hypertension. However, these agents are known to accumulate in bone mineral where vanadate substitutes for phosphate. It is therefore essential to understand the long-term effects on these compounds on bone quality. (Facchini DM, Yuen VG, Battell ML, McNeill JH, Grynpas MD. The effects of vanadium treatment on bone in diabetic and non-diabetic rats. Bone. 2006; 38(3):368-77) The effect of Rosiglitazone treatment on bone quality in rat models of type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis. Rosiglitazone (RSG) is an insulin-sensitizing drug used to treat patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) to improve glycemic control. The ADOPT clinical trial showed that women taking RSG experienced more fractures. The purpose of our study is to understand the mechanism by which RSG induces limb fracture and alters bone quality in the insulin resistant Zucker Fatty rat. Comparison of the skeletal effects in the treatment of type2 diabetes with Sitagliptin (a DPP4 inhibitor) or Pioglitazone (a PPRgamma agonist) in mice fed a high fat diet.
Publications:

H

Halperin, Mitchell L., MD, FRCPC, FRS
Emeritus Professor, Faculty of Medicine (U of T)

Address:	St. Michael's Hospital 38 Shuter Street Toronto, Ontario M5B 1A6
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-864-5292 FAX: 416-864-5943 mitchell.halperin@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	Diabetic ketoacidosis is a dreaded complication of diabetes mellitus in very poor control. It is particularly important in children. The major short-term danger for these children is the development of a swollen brain that can lead to brain damage and even death. We postulated that more careful attention to the rates of therapy can minimize the development of this life-threatening complication of therapy. We provided a better way to evaluate the needs for aggressive therapy and the responses to this therapy.
Publications:

Hamilton, Jill, MD, FRCPC
Associate Professor, Department of Paediatrics, Division of Endocrinology (U of T)
Associate Scientist, Physiology and Experimental Medicine, SickKids Research Institute

Address:	The Hospital For Sick Children, Division of Endocrinology 555 University Avenue, Room 5447 Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8T
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-813-5115 FAX: 416-813-6304 jill.hamilton@sickkids.ca www.obesityinyouth.org
Research Interests:	My research interests include the clinical and biochemical manifestations of insulin resistance and pancreatic beta cell function in the pediatric age group. Recent studies include: (i) risk for diabetes and metabolic syndrome and pathophysiologic mechanisms related to the development of hypothalamic obesity in children treated for craniopharyngioma; (ii) early life risk factors for the development of obesity and diabetes in infants born to women with gestational diabetes; (iii) incidence and clinical presentation of type 2 diabetes in Canadian children (iv) role of ectopic fat deposition and metabolic consequences in obese children and adolescents
Publications:	Simoneau-Roy J., O’Gorman C., Pencharz P., Adeli K., Daneman D., Hamilton J. Insulin secretion and sensitivity in children and adolescents with hypothalamic obesity following treatment for craniopharyngioma. Clin Endocrinol 2009 epub ahead of print May 25. Hamilton J. Odrobina E., Hanley A., Zinman B., Retnakaran R. Effect of Maternal Insulin Sensitivity During Pregnancy on Infant Weight Gain and Adiposity at 12 months of age. Obesity 2009 epub ahead of print Aug 6 Rakhshani N., Jeffery A., Schulte F., Barrera M., Atenafu E., Hamilton J. Evaluation of a comprehensive care clinic model for children with brain tumour and risk for hypothalamic obesity. Obesity Jan 7 epub ahead of print

Hanley, Anthony, PhD
Associate Professor, Departments of Nutritional Sciences and Medicine and
Dalla Lana School of Public Health (U of T)
Canada Research Chair in Diabetes Epidemiology
Associate Scientist, Leadership Sinai Centre for Diabetes, Mount Sinai Hospital

Address:	150 College Street, FitzGerald Building, Room 341 Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E2
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-978-3616 FAX: 416-978-5882 anthony.hanley@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	Dr. Hanley’s research interests include the metabolic and nutritional epidemiology of type 2 diabetes and related disorders including obesity, insulin resistance, and beta cell dysfunction, as well as the micro-and macro-vascular complications of type 2 diabetes. His research focuses on diabetes in Aboriginal Canadian communities and other high-risk populations. Current projects include the Sandy Lake Health and Diabetes Project, the PROMISE study, as well as collaborations with the Insulin Resistance Atherosclerosis Study and the Gestational Diabetes and Acute Phase Biomarkers research groups.
Publications:	Masters RC, Liese AD, Haffner SM, Wagenknecht LE, Hanley AJ. Whole and Refined Grain Intakes Are Related to Inflammatory Protein Concentrations in Human Plasma. J Nutr. 2010 Jan 20. [Epub ahead of print] Ley SH, Harris SB, Mamakeesick M, Noon T, Fiddler E, Gittelsohn J, Wolever TM, Zinman B, Hanley AJ. Metabolic syndrome and its components identify Aboriginal Canadians at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. CMAJ 2009 Mar 17;180(6):617-24. Hanley AJ, Retnakaran R, Qi Y, Gerstein HC, Perkins B, Raboud J, Harris SB, Zinman B. Association of hematological parameters with insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction in nondiabetic subjects. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2009 Oct;94(10):3824-32. Epub 2009 Jul 21.

Hughes, Timothy R.
Assistant Professor, Banting and Best Department of Medical Research; Dept. of Medical Genetics & Microbiology (U of T)

Address:	112 College Street, Room 307 Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L6
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-946-8260 FAX: 416-978-8528 t.hughes@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	My laboratory is involved in large-scale prediction and analysis of gene functions, primarily using DNA microarrays in yeast. We have recently identified a number of genes that are co-regulated with known components of carbohydrate utilization and energy generation pathways, suggesting that they may also be involved in these processes. A subset of these genes are conserved across evolution, and are thus candidates for novel regulators or effectors of sugar metabolism in humans. We are now beginning to use the powerful tools available in yeast genetics to survey in parallel the functions of all of these genes and the proteins they encode.
Publications:

Hux, Janet E.
Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine (U of T)

Address:	Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences G Wing, 2075 Bayview Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-480-6100 Ext. 3849 FAX: 416-480-6048 jan@ices.on.ca www.ices.on.ca
Research Interests:	Diabetes in Ontario: Patterns of Disease, Treatment, and Complications. A program of health services research in which comprehensive administrative claims data are used to evaluate the magnitude and distribution of DM on a population basis, to assess selected measures of quality of care and to support interventions to improve care. Linked administrative claims data have been used to identify the Ontario residents who have been diagnosed with DM and the resulting "virtual registry" has been validated against self-reported DM in the National Population Health Survey and against primary care office charts. This database now provides a platform in which process and outcomes of diabetes care can be examined. Current projects include an examination of rates and patterns of ophthalmologic screening, a study of "time to critical event" in an incident cohort of persons with type 2 DM (where a short time between DM diagnosis and amputation, for instance, may reflect delayed diagnosis and missed preventive opportunities), patterns of urinary protein screening and models of physician service delivery. Opportunities exist for linkage to primary data sets (e.g. clinical trial enrollees) to provide efficient long term follow-up for outcomes.
Publications:

I

Irwin, David M.
Professor, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology (U of T)

Address:	Medical Sciences Building, Room 6207 1 King’s College Circle Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8
Phone: E-mail: Web Site:	416-978-0519 david.irwin@utoronto.ca http://icarus.med.utoronto.ca/patho/faculty.asp?FacultyID=159
Research Interests:	Research in the Irwin lab focuses on the evolution of genes involved in diabetes. Many of the genes and proteins (e.g., the proglucagon-derived peptides glucagon, GLP-1, and GLP-2) involved in glucose metabolism are related yet have differing function. By examining the origin and evolution of these genes we hope to identify portions of the sequences important for their unique functions. We are also interested in the expression of the human proglucagon gene. Despite the considerable importance of this gene in Diabetes, little is known about the regulation of expression of the human gene, as most research has focused on the rat gene. Surprisingly, there is considerable difference in the minimal sequences that support expression of the human and rat genes. We have identified and continue to characterize novel elements involved in the regulation of the human proglucagon gene.
Publications:	Irwin, D. M. Molecular evolution of mammalian incretin hormone genes. Regul Pept. 2009 155:121-30 He, J., Irwin, D. M., Chen, R., Zhang, Y. P. Stepwise loss of motilin and its specific receptor genes in rodents. J Mol Endocrinol. 2010 44:37-44

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Jenkins, David
Professor, Department of Nutritional Sciences (U of T)

Address:	Department of Nutritional Sciences, FitzGerald Building 150 College Street Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E2
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-978-4752 FAX: 416-978-5310 cyril.kendall@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	The ultimate goal of our research team is to elucidate the potential of diet to prevent and treat chronic diseases; primarily heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Our research is clinically based and dietary trials allow us to also assess mechanisms in vivo by which diet and/or its components alter risk for disease. We work in collaboration with the food industry on a diverse spectrum of food products and food components ranging from macronutrients to phytochemicals.
Publications:

Jin, Tianru
Associate Professor, Depts. of Medicine; Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology; and Physiology (U of T)
Division of Cell and Molecular Biology, Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network

Address:	MaRS/Toronto Medical Discovery Tower 101 College Street, 10th floor Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1L7
Phone: E-mail:	416-581-7670 tianru.jin@utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	Role of transcription factors and signaling molecules in hormone production, secretion and the genesis of hormone producing cells. Insulin, glucagon, and glucagon like peptide 1 (GLP-1), producing by different types of pancreatic and gut endocrine cells, play fundamental roles in maintaining blood glucose levels. My lab is focused on studying the role of transcription factors and signaling molecules that regulate the expression of the hormone-encoding genes, the biosynthesis and secretion of these hormones, and the genesis of hormone producing cells. Cdx2 and cAMP. We have demonstrated that the caudal homeodomain (HD) protein Cdx2 works with other transcription factors, in regulating both glucagon and insulin gene expression. Cdx2 may serve as the mediator for the second messenger cAMP in regulating gene expression, and cAMP may exert its biological functions through activating both Protein Kinase A and the newly discovered Epac signaling pathway. We plan to continue to examine how different HD protein transcription factors are working with signaling molecules in regulating cell type specific gene expression. In addition, we are studying how Cdx2 utilizes different co-factors in order to exert its multiple biological functions. Wnt signaling pathway. We discovered that proglucagon gene in gut endocrine L cells, but not in pancreatic A cells, is among the downstream target genes of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. The activation is at least partially mediated through the G2 enhancer element of the proglucagon gene promoter. Cell type specifically activation is attributed to the expression of TCF-4, one of the mediators of the Wnt pathway in gut cells but not in pancreas. We are now examining the role of Wnt molecules in regulating proglucagon and insulin gene expression, the secretion of GLP-1 and insulin, and the genesis of insulin producing cells.
Publications:

Josse, Robert G., BSc, MB, BS, FRCP, FRCPC, FACP, FACE

Professor of Medicine (U of T)
Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, St. Michael's Hospital

Address:	St. Michael's Hospital 61 Queen St. East, 6th Floor, Suite 6122 Toronto, Ontario M5C 2T2
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-867-7455 FAX: 416-867-3696 josser@smh.toronto.on.ca
Research Interests:	Often with an emphasis in clinical nutrition, I have obtained peer review and non peer review grants (mostly Phase II and III pharmaceutically funded multicentre national and international studies) as Principal, Co-principal or Co-investigator. These studies have investigated the effects of various new drugs on diabetes control, hyperlipidemia and prevention and treatment of diabetes complications. I have been particularly interested in the nutritional management of diabetes with other colleagues in the Department of Nutritional Sciences (Jenkins, Wolever). We have promulgated the concept of the glycemic index of foods and the importance of meal frequency as therapeutic principles.
Publications:

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Kenshole, Anne B., MD
Professor Emeritus, Department of Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology (U of T)

Address:	Women's College Hospital 76 Grenville St., Burton Hall, Room 214 Toronto ON M5S 1B2
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-323-6117 FAX: 416-323-7323 anne.kenshole@sw.ca
Research Interests:	A founder-member of the Society of Obstetrical Medicine, Dr. Kenshole established and became the Medical Director of the Tri-Hospital Diabetes Education Centre at Women's College, the first such centre to be developed in Toronto. She is in active practice in the Division of Endocrinology at The New Women's College Hospital. She is the author of a chapter on the role of the internist in Chronic Wound Care, 3rd Edition (HMP Communications), the chapter on Diabetes and Pregnancy in Medical Complications during Pregnancy, 6th Edition (Elsevier) and co-authored the chapter on type 1 and type 2 diabetes in Medical Care of the Pregnant Patient (American College of Physicians). Her clinical research interests are focused on the diabetic pregnancy (currently the HAPO study, Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome) and TRIGR (The role of cow's milk antigen in infants at increased risk for developing type 1) as well as cardiovascular disease prevention (ASPEN, statin use in prevention of vascular disease in type 2 diabetes, HOPE and HOPE-TOO (recently completed) and several registries tracking therapeutic intervention and cardiovascular outcomes.
Publications:

Kilkenny, Dawn M., PhD
Assistant Professor, Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering (IBBME); Department of Medicine (U of T)

Address:	164 College Street 407 Rosebrugh Toronto, ON M5S 3G9
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web site:	416-978-835 FAX: 416-978-4317 dawn.kilkenny@utoronto.ca http://www.ibbme.utoronto.ca/faculty/core/kilkenny.htm
Research Interests:	My research is focused on expression of Fibroblast Growth Factor receptors (FGFR) in adult beta cells. Signaling via members of this family of tyrosine kinase receptors is associated with beta cell maintenance and survival. We previously determined that both FGFR1-expression and -signaling are altered by beta-cell extracellular microenvironment. We are now investigating the role of the novel kinase-deficient FGFR5 isoform in the regulation of beta-cell FGFR1-signalling. FGFR5 was originally identified over a decade ago in pancreas and bone, however little is known about its function. Using insulin-secreting cell lines, we determined expression of FGFR5 both at the cell membrane as well as in association with insulin secretory granules. Expression of a ‘dominant-negative’ (kinase-deficient) isoform of classical FGFR1, which is similar in structure to FGFR5, has been shown to induce a diabetic phenotype in mice. Taken together, these data promote our interest in defining the role that FGFRs play in normal beta-cell maintenance and insulin secretion. We currently examine this receptor signaling system using methods of fluorescence microscopy (live-cell and fixed) both in vitro as well as in vivo (whole islet). Studies are verified in combination with traditional biochemical techniques.
Publications:

Klip, Amira
Senior Scientist, Departments of Paediatrics, Biochemistry, and Physiology (U of T)

Address:	The Hospital for Sick Children McMaster Building, Room 5004B Toronto, Ontario M5G 1H3
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-813-6392 FAX: 416-813-5028 amira@sickkids.ca
Research Interests:	Our research explores how insulin stimulates glucose entry into muscle cells, and how this fails in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. In particular, we explore insulin signals, movement of vesicles containing glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) and strategies to render muscle cells insulin resistant, such as exposure to saturated fatty acids. We recently showed that such fatty acids also affect macrophages, cells of the innate immune system. Palmitate-challenged macrophages produce cytokines that in turn make muscle cells resistant to insulin. Specifically, the muscle cells respond by activating stress pathways and altering insulin signalling at the levels of Akt and Rac. RAc is a small G protein that controls the actin filament remodelling, crucial for GLUT4 vesicle translocation. We use single cell techniques (such as fluorescence and electron microscopy), proteomics to identify GLUT4-binding proteins and siRNA knockdown to assess their role. Identifying molecules involved in insulin signalling will help discover the underlying mechanism of insulin resistance. In 2009 we reported: The response of macrophages to fatty acids; how GLUT4 activity is normally regulated by binding selective glycolytic proteins; The creation of a transgenic mouse expressing a tagged version of GLUT4 in its muscles. These mice are now a resource for the entire scientific community to study GLUT4 in vivo.
Publications:	Samokhvalov V, Bilan P J, Schertzer J D, Antonescu C N, Klip A. (2009) Palmitate- and lipopolysaccharide-activated macrophages evoke contrasting insulin responses in muscle cells. Am. J. Physiol. Endocrinol. Metab., 296: E37–46. Zaid H, Talior-Volodarsky I, Antonescu C, Liu Z, Klip A. (2009) GAPDH binds GLUT4 reciprocally to hexokinase-II and regulates glucose transport activity. Biochem. J., 419: 475-84. Schertzer J D, Antonescu C N, Bilan P J, Jain S, Huang X, Liu Z, Bonen A, Klip A. (2009) A Transgenic Mouse Model to Study Glucose Transporter 4myc Regulation in Skeletal Muscle. Endocrinol., 150: 1935-40.

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Lam, Tony K. T., PhD
Associate Professor, Departments of Physiology and Medicine (U of T)
Canada Research Chair in Obesity
John Kitson McIvor Endowed Chair in Diabetes Research
Scientist, Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network

Address:	MaRS/Toronto Medical Discovery Tower 101 College Street, 10th Floor Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7
Phone/FAX: E-mail: Web sites:	416-581-7880 FAX: 416-581-7880 tony.lam@uhnres.utoronto.ca Department of Physiology website profile University Health Network website profile
Research Interests:	Nutrient sensing, diabetes, obesity, artheroschlerosis, insulin action, glucose and lipid metabolism.
Publications:

Leiter, Lawrence, MD, FRCPC, FACP
Professor, Departments of Medicine and Nutritional Sciences (U of T)
Head, Division of Endocrinology & Metabolism, St Michael’s Hospital

Address:	St. Michael's Hospital 61 Queen St. East, Room 6121 Toronto, Ontario M4V 2L5
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-867-7441 FAX: 416-867-3696 leiterl@smh.toronto.on.ca
Research Interests:	Dr. Leiter has several research interests including clinical trials on the prevention of atherosclerosis, especially in diabetes, and the dietary and pharmacologic treatment of diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and obesity. He was an investigator in many of the landmark diabetes trials including the DCCT, ACCORD, and ADVANCE and is on the Steering Committees of many ongoing outcome trials in both the diabetes and lipid areas.
Publications:	Schwartz GG ,Olsson AG, Ballantyne CM, Barter PJ, Holme I, Kallend D, Leiter LA, Leitersdorf E, McMurray JJ, Shah PK, Tardif JC, Chaitman BR, Duttlinger-Maddux R, Mathieson J. dal-OUTCOMES Committees and Investigators Rationale and Design of the dal-OUTCOMES Trial: Efficacy & Safety of Dalcetrapib in patients with recent Acute Coronary Syndrome. Am Heart J. 2009 Dec;158(6):896-901. Teoh H, Mendelsohn AA, Goodman SG, Jaffer S, Chen RY, Tjia S, Theriault L, Langer A, Leiter LA; Guidelines based undertaking for improvement in dyslipidemia related events (GUIDE) Investigators. Usefulness of statin-ezetimibe combination to reduce the care gap in dyslipidemia management in patients with a high risk of atherosclerotic disease. Am J Cardiol. 2009 Sep 15;104(6):798-804 Epub 2009 Jul 23. Braga MF, Grace M, Lenis J, Kennedy FP, Teplinsky AL, Roederer G, Palumbo PJ, Colin P, Leiter LAEfficacy and safety of ursodeoxycholic aid in primary, type IIa or IIb hypercholesterolemia: a multicenter, randomized, double blind clinical trial. Atherosclerosis 203 (2009) 479-482.

Leong-Poi, Howard, MD, FRCPC
Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine (U of T)
Cardiologist, St. Michael's Hospital

Address:	St. Michael's Hospital 7-052 Bond Wing, 30 Bond Street Toronto , Ontario M5B 1W8
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-864-5201 FAX: 416-864-5571 leong-poih@smh.toronto.on.ca
Research Interests:	My lab is interested in the effects of diabetes and the metabolic syndrome on endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) function, specifically the implications for the therapeutic use of bone-marrow derived EPCs to restore blood flow to ischemic tissues. Diabetes and the metabolic syndrome are associated with impaired number and function of circulating EPCs, but its effect on bone marrow (BM)-derived EPCs have not been well characterized. In our recent studies, we found that circulating EPC number was significantly reduced in obese Zucker (OZ) and Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats when compared to lean rats. BM EPC differentiation and migratory potential were reduced in OZ and ZDF rats when compared to lean control animals, while apoptosis rates were increased. Using a mouse model of hindlimb ischemia, BM-derived EPCs from OZ and ZDF rats had a markedly impaired angiogenic potential, with minimal improvement in hindlimb perfusion. Thus, BM EPCs develop phenotypic and functional impairment in the presence of diabetes and the metabolic syndrome, which may limit their therapeutic potential in these disease states. This data was presented in abstract form at the International Society for Heart Research (ISHR) 2006, the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress 2006, and the American College of Cardiology 2007, and has been submitted for publication. Ongoing studies will focus on methods to reverse diabetic EPC dysfunction, and improve their therapeutic potential for vascular regeneration.
Publications:

Lewis, Gary, MD, FRCPC
Professor, Departments of Medicine and Physiology (U of T)
Head, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University Health Network and Mount Sinai Hospital
Canada Research Chair in Diabetes

Address:	Toronto General Hospital 200 Elizabeth St., 12 Eaton North, Room 12-218 Toronto, ON M5G 2C4
Lab Address:	MaRS Centre/Toronto Medical Discovery Tower 101 College St., Room 10-203 Toronto, ON M5G 1L7
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	Office: 416-340-4270 Lab: 416-581-7487 FAX: 416-340-3314 gary.lewis@uhn.on.ca
Research Interests:	Dr. Lewis performs whole body, integrative, physiological studies in humans and in animal models of disease. The major lines of research interests of the Lewis laboratory are: Determining the mechanism of intestinal and hepatic lipoprotein overproduction in insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes. Studies are performed in humans and in small animal models of insulin resistance, attempting to determine the molecular mechanisms whereby the liver and intestine overproduce lipoproteins in these conditions. The lab is currently examining the regulation of intestinal and hepatic lipoprotein particle production by hormones and inflammatory factors in humans, particularly as they pertain to the insulin resistant condition. The effect of free fatty acids on pancreatic beta cell secretory function. In a series of in vivo experiments in humans and rats Lewis and collaborators have demonstrated ‘lipotoxicity’ from elevated plasma free fatty acids on pancreatic beta cell function. They are currently examining the role of oxidant stress, ER stress and inflammation in mediating the deleterious effects of lipids on beta cell function. Other lines of research interest are: In vivo studies in genetically altered mice investigating the mechanisms of insulin resistance, impairment of pancreatic beta cell function and mechanism of action of pharmacological agents: i) The role of c-reactive protein (CRP) in modulating insulin action and secretion. CRP is a marker of inflammation and its plasma level is elevated in insulin resistant states and Type 2 diabetes. CRP has recently been shown in vitro to impair insulin action. Using hCRP-transgenic mice and antisense technology we are investigating whether CRP plays a causative role in the development of insulin resistance and/or pancreatic beta cell impairment. ii) CB1 receptor agonism and antagonism-differentiation of CNS from peripheral tissue-mediated beneficial metabolic effects. It is currently not known whether the beneficial effects of CB1 receptor antagonists are mediated via a direct CNS effect or via effects on CB1 receptors in liver and other peripheral tissues. We are examining this issue using CB1 receptor knockout mice, CB1 agonists and antagonists and liver-specific CB1 null and reconstituted mice. iii) In collaboration with the regenerative medicine scientists at U of T we are beginning to test the function of insulin-producing stem cells in mice
Publications:	Duez H, Smith AC, Xiao C, Szeto L, Giacca A, Drucker DJ, Lewis GF. Acute DPP-4 Inhibition rapidly Enhances Insulin-mediated Suppression of Endogenous Glucose Production in Mice Endocrinology 150(1):56-62, 2009. Xiao C, Giacca A, Lewis GF. The effect of high-dose sodium salicylate on chronically elevated plasma non-esterified fatty acid-induced insulin resistance and b-cell dysfunction in overweight and obese, non-diabetic men. Am J Physiol, Endocrinology and Metabolism 2009 Sep 15. Pavlic M, Xiao C, Szeto L, Patterson BW, Lewis GF. Insulin acutely inhibits intestinal lipoprotein secretion in humans, in part by suppressing plasma free fatty acids. Diabetes 2009 Dec 22.

Li, Ren-Ke, MD, PhD
Professor, Senior Scientist, Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiovascular Surgery (U of T)

Address:	MaRS Centre/Toronto Medical Discovery Tower 101 College Street, Room 3-701 Toronto, ON M5G 1L7
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-581-7492 FAX: 416-581-7493 renkeli@uhnres.utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	My research team is proposing to examine a novel treatment approach to improving heart function in diabetes by employing the cell transplantation methodology. We know that one of the most important and consequential complications of diabetes is cardiovascular disease. Long-term diabetes results in a specific abnormality in the muscle of the heart, which is called diabetic cardiomyopathy. The technique involves injecting the heart with smooth muscle cells and heart cells with the hope to improve the contractile function of the heart. We believe these experiments will serve to uncover new avenues for treating diabetic heart disease.
Publications:

Lowe, Julia, MD
Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology & Metabolism (U of T)

Address:	Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre Room H145, 2075 Bayview Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-480-6948 FAX: 416-480-4250 julia.lowe@sunnybrook.ca
Research Interests:	I received broad training as a specialist general internal physician, as well as specialty training in endocrinology in the UK. After completing this I went to Australia where I have worked for the last 25 years, first in community practice and then as a staff physician at John Hunter Hospital one of the teaching hospitals for Newcastle Medical school. I have a Masters in clinical epidemiology. For 4 years I was the Area Director of Diabetes for the Hunter region of NSW. My research interests are in chronic diseases especially diabetes and heart failure. My research projects included the HAPO study and the Australian Longitudinal Study in Women’s health, and a survey of Australian women with gestational diabetes. I also have funding for research into the epidemiology and use of health services by women with diabetes, and follow up of people who have attended diabetes and prediabetes education programmes in the Hunter and to redesign the service provided for young people with Type 1 diabetes in rural areas. In 2007 my husband took up a position in Toronto & I left my home in NSW in January 2008 to start work at the University of Toronto where I hold the rank of Associate Professor. Since coming to Toronto I have started a research programme on the management of diabetes in hospital inpatients.
Publications:

Lu, Wei-Yang
Associate Professor; Scientist, Departments of Anesthesia and Physiology (U of T)

Address:	Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre Research Building, S104 2075 Bayview Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5
Phone/FAX: E-mail:	416-480-4823 FAX: 416-480-5737 wlu@sten.sunnybrook.utoronto.ca
Research Interests:	Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is synthesized and released by pancreatic islet beta-cells, and GABA receptors are expressed in both alpha- and beta-cells, forming auto- and paracrine systems in the pancreatic islets. Our studies demonstrate that GABA signaling in the islets plays a critical role in the regulation of insulin secretion. Using patch-clamp recordings, immuohistochemistry and other techniques, we are currently studying the cellular and molecular mechanisms, by which insulin regulates the GABA receptor function.
Publications:

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