GTPase Regulation Of The Hippo Organ Size-control Pathway
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$570,334.00
Summary
The Hippo pathway is a key regulator of tissue growth. It was first discovered in vinegar flies and plays a similar role in mammals. We aim to define the mechanism by which two proteins, Pix and Git, control tissue growth by regulating the Hippo pathway. These studies will be performed in flies. Our studies will shed light on how tissue growth is controlled, and have the potential to inform the way that we treat human cancers and tissue growth disorders.
Mechanisms Regulating The Levels Of Circulating Insulin In Response To Nutrition
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$318,768.00
Summary
Diabetes is the fastest growing chronic disease both in Australia and worldwide, caused by the failure of cells within the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin. I aim to determine how different nutritional inputs alter the levels of circulating insulin, and identify and characterise genes required for insulin production and secretion. As well as providing important insights into the mechanisms that regulate insulin secretion, I will identify new therapeutic targets for diabetes treatment.