Our Research Members

The search for putative precursor cells within the pancreas has been a focus of extensive research. Adult mouse Pancreas-derived Multipotent Precursor (PMP) cells, possessing the intriguing capacity to generate cross-germ layer progeny in the pancreatic and neural lineages, have been identified. Here, genetic lineage-labelling was used to exclude the neural crest as the developmental source of PMPs. Notably, we demonstrate that the PMP cell expresses insulin in vivo, providing reconciliation with reports that new adult b cells are formed exclusively by self-replication. Further, PMP cells were shown to exist within adult human islet tissue, each capable of extensive proliferation, self-renewal, and generation of multiple differentiated pancreatic and neural cell types. Finally, the newly generated human b cell progeny were found to display regulated insulin secretion. These findings demonstrate that the adult mammalian pancreas contains a population of insulin+ multipotent stem cells, capable of contributing to the neural and pancreatic lineages.

My research program focuses on cardiometabolic disease and diabetes-related co-morbidities. As the Chair of the CardioLink Clinical Trials platform, I am conducting a number of clinical trials in diabetes and its complications. The first of these trials, EMPA-Heart, seeks to uncover the mechanism underlying the cardioprotective effects of the SGLT2 inhibitor, empagliflozin, that was reported in the EMPA-REG Outcome study. This trial is in the late stages of recruitment and will report primary outcomes in 2018. The NEWTON CABG trial will assess whether blockade of the PCSK9 receptor in individuals will diabetes can reduce the risk of future cardiac events after bypass surgery. In the ENABLE-Chiropody trial, persons with diabetes undergoing hemodialysis will undergo a chiropody-based intensive, structured, and evidence-based care program with the aim of lowering the incidence and progression of diabetic foot ulcers and amputations. This initiative is fully supported by a partnership with Diabetes Action Canada which is part of the CIHR-SPOR network. In addition, I oversee a dynamic research lab in the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael’s Hospital which has a special interest in the role of SGLT2 inhibitors as a potential modulator of endothelial function and atherosclerotic vascular disease. Finally, I am a national lead/steering committee member on three SGLT2 inhibitor trials that are evaluating the impact of this class of drugs on heart failure.

Viscous Dietary Fiber Blend

This blend maximizes viscosity as a driver of physiological effectiveness in the management of diabetes and reduction of blood lipids. Dr. Vuksan holds Canadian & USA patents for this discovery. His research on fiber blend has attracted the attention of the food industry, and the product is now commercially available worldwide.

Salvia Hispanica L.

The consumption of this ancient Aztec seeds high omega-3/fiber rich, improved conventional and novel risk factors for cardiovascular disease in those with diabetes. Dr. Vuksan’s studies were the first to demonstrate health benefits of these seeds in humans, gaining the attention internationally of the research community and popular press. Economic analysis on exports by main producers of Salvia Hispanica, Mexico, Argentina and Australia, show a major surge in export of the seeds coinciding with his publications in 2007/2010. His research has thus ignited significant economic benefits to countries producing the seeds and the local farmers have led to increased human consumption worldwide.

Ginseng

Ginseng was hardly known for its metabolic benefits in humans until Dr. Vuksan’s studies in early 2000. His group was the first to demonstrate potential hypoglycaemic efficacy and safety of ginseng. His investigations of the potential of medicinal herbs and ginseng in particular have received international recognitions.