Research in Sweeney Lab

Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of diabetes and heart failure. The former initially involves the development of insulin resistance, when the body does not respond well to the hormone insulin. The latter occurs when the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the demands of the body. Progression of heart failure is now commonly believed to result due to a complex interplay of detrimental effects (remodeling). The ability of adipokines (substances released by adipose tissue, such as adiponectin) to mediate the connection between obesity and diabetes or heart failure is a major focus of our lab. Research in our lab is funded by CIHR, NSERC, Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Thalassemia Foundation.

Our collaborative network includes research groups across Canada as well as in Hong Kong, Thailand, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. Our work may aid the development of therapeutic strategies for the treatment of cardiometabolic diseases in obesity. Indeed, we have a close partnership with a pharmaceutical company to aid in the development of adiponectin-based therapeutics.

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Sub-Disciplines

Medical Pharmacology, Cell Biology, Biotechnology

Research Areas