Our research is focused on developing novel strategies to treat Type1 and Type 2 diabetes using multidisciplinary approaches, which combine information gained from genetic models of diabetes, genomics/proteomics, molecular biology and cell biology. Defects in pancreatic endocrine function are central factors in the pathology of diabetes. As such, we are currently investigating several avenues of research that explore pancreatic islet function in both healthy and diseased states. These include understanding the roles of membrane bound proteins like transporters, ion channels and receptors on pancreatic islet function. We also explore the therapeutic effects of prescription drugs and their metabolites to enhance pancreatic regeneration and treat diabetes. Another major thrust of our research involves utilizing high throughput metabolomics and lipidomics approaches to uncover the underlying pathophysiology of Gestational Diabetes and its transition to Type 2 diabetes.

Members of the Wheeler lab have access to state-of-art facilities at both the University of Toronto and the University Health Network at TMDT and have forged collaborations with world-class research teams working in the diabetes field. The laboratory is affiliated with the Endocrinology and Diabetes Research Group in the Department of Physiology at the University of Toronto and the Banting & Best Diabetes Centre, University of Toronto. As such the Wheeler lab is an excellent training environment for undergraduates, M.Sc. and Ph.D. candidate as well as post-doctoral fellows and residents interested in diabetes.