Introducing the MUHC’s new Metabolic Centre of Excellence

Did you know that metabolic disorders affect more than 50 per cent of the population? These disorders––such as obesity and diabetes––lead to serious health complications and place a very real strain on the already overburdened health care system. To address this challenge, the MUHC has recently established its Metabolic Centre of Excellence––a groundbreaking initiative made possible by the MUHC Foundation and a generous $2M gift from Novo Nordisk Canada. This new centre will position the MUHC as a global pioneer in the research, treatment, and education of metabolic disorders.

“At the MUHC Foundation, our mission is to champion medical innovation in Quebec and drive world-class advancements in health care,” says Marie-Hélène Laramée, President and CEO of the MUHC Foundation. “The Metabolic Centre of Excellence will not only transform the way MUHC experts approach metabolic disorders but also reinforce the MUHC’s position as a hub for groundbreaking research and patient-centred care. We are building a future where patients benefit from the latest medical discoveries and enhanced treatments.”

A metabolic disorder is a condition that disrupts the body’s process of converting food into energy and can be caused by genetic abnormalities, chemical reactions, organ dysfunction, as well as lifestyle or environmental factors. The MUHC’s Metabolic Centre of Excellence will address these challenges through an integrated approach that combines innovative research, clinical care, and world-class medical education.

“This Centre will transform the standard of care for metabolic disease, in particular the future management of obesity and diabetes,” says Dr. Michael Tsoukas, Co-Director of the Metabolic Centre of Excellence. “By combining world-class research with cutting-edge clinical care, we can offer personalized treatments that improve long-term outcomes for patients. Thanks to this generous donation, we will advance our mission to make Montreal a leader in metabolic medicine.”

Part of the MUHC’s Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism and supported by the expertise of the Research Institute of the MUHC (The Institute), the Centre will develop innovative treatments and care models that can be adopted locally and globally. It will also expand medical education opportunities by training the next generation of health care professionals and establishing best practices in metabolic care.

“The impact of this Centre will be felt far beyond the walls of the MUHC,” says Dr. Vanessa Tardio, Co-Director of the Centre. “By cultivating national and international collaborations, we will contribute to a global shift in how metabolic disorders are managed. Our goal is to create a sustainable model of care that can be adapted worldwide.”

Ensuring equitable access to care is also central to the Metabolic Centre’s mission. Outreach programs will help reach underserved communities, including Indigenous populations in Northern Quebec. As one of Canada’s leading academic health institutions, the MUHC continues to break new ground in patient care, research, and education––all while ensuring care is as inclusive and accessible as possible. The Metabolic Centre of Excellence is the latest example of this commitment.

“Transforming our understanding and management of metabolic diseases is a priority, which is why the MUHC embraces approaches that encourage innovation and excellence. We are grateful for the recent $2M gift because the MUHC Metabolic Centre of Excellence represents a meaningful means to achieve that objective,” says Dr. Lucie Opatrny, President and Executive Director of the MUHC. “It is exciting to know that the Centre will help our talented teams personalize people’s care, improve their outcomes, and empower next-generation research in metabolic health.”

The MUHC Foundation’s investment in the new centre is a powerful step forward in tackling obesity and metabolic disorders, offering hope and better care for the 1 in 3 Canadians affected by these conditions. By focusing on education, research, and innovation, it promises to transform not only the standard of care for metabolic disease­—but also change lives. Its impact on patient care and research will be felt far beyond the walls of the MUHC, attracting top talent to our city while informing care both locally and globally.

It’s not too late to be a part of this transformative moment in metabolic medicine. Your support will fuel new treatments, expand access for underserved communities, and train the specialists of tomorrow. Learn more here.