Investing in Mental Health Research in Diabetes

Brain Canada and Diabetes Canada are pleased to announce funding for two research projects at the intersection of diabetes and mental health. Together, Brain Canada and Diabetes Canada will award and co-fund two grants of $450,000 each over three years through the 2025 End Diabetes Awards.  

Does impaired brain insulin action underlie the shared risk of depression and diabetes? A neuroimaging clinical trial 

Mahavir Agarwal, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)  

Dr. Mahavir Agarwal at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) is investigating whether disrupted insulin activity in the brain contributes to the shared risk of depression and type 2 diabetes. This research could lead to earlier, more holistic treatments that improve the quality of life for people affected by both conditions.  

Therapeutic Targeting of GDF15 to Treat Anxiety in Diabetes 

Gregory Steinberg, McMaster University 

Dr. Gregory Steinberg at McMaster University is exploring how a stress-related protein called GDF15 contributes to anxiety in people living with diabetes. By targeting this molecule, the research aims to identify new treatment approaches that address both the mental health and metabolic challenges of diabetes, with the potential to improve overall well-being and disease management. 

Funding for this pool is made possible by Diabetes Canada, and the Canada Brain Research Fund, an innovative arrangement between the Government of Canada, through Health Canada, and Brain Canada. 

Learn more about the End Diabetes Awards