The combined use of proteomics and small molecules for target identification and pathway analysis. This project intends to investigate how a series of new small molecules identified from our research to improve the metabolic effects of insulin. This project will integrate medicinal chemistry with proteomics and metabolic biology to identify the cellular targets and their mechanism of action.
Heme oxygenase integrates cellular responses to oxygen stress. A deficiency in the protein heme oxygenase-1 causes severe biological consequences including retarded development, chronic inflammation and increased susceptibility to age-associated diseases. By illuminating how heme oxygenase-1 improves cell function the project will eventually assist in preventing or slowing the serious age-associated disorders.
Novel mass spectrometry methods to assess cellular oxidative stress. This project will provide fundamental understanding to the biology of cell stress that may lead to novel approaches for treating age-related diseases. It has the potential to have a significant economic and social impact nationally and internationally and provide Australian scientists with new technologies to study challenging issues in biology.
New models of mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation disorders. Mitochondrial disease can affect both children and adults and is often fatal. This project will study mitochondrial function in cell types of the heart and brain to better understand how they generate energy in these tissues. This will provide new insights into mitochondrial metabolism and how defects in this process cause mitochondrial disease.
Novel mechanisms controlling signaling by adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, central regulator of energy homeostasis. Sedentary lifestyles and consumption of high energy foods have led to dramatic increases in the incidence of obesity-related metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, placing enormous financial and medical burden on the Australian economy. An attractive drug target to treat these diseases is AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which fu ....Novel mechanisms controlling signaling by adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, central regulator of energy homeostasis. Sedentary lifestyles and consumption of high energy foods have led to dramatic increases in the incidence of obesity-related metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, placing enormous financial and medical burden on the Australian economy. An attractive drug target to treat these diseases is AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which functions as both a cellular fuel gauge and co-ordinator of whole-body metabolism. Building on recent breakthroughs made at St. Vincent's Institute, this project will produce innovative research into novel mechanisms that control AMPK. These discoveries will greatly increase our understanding of AMPK regulation by cellular processes, and aid the design of more effective AMPK drugs.Read moreRead less