In patients predisposed to metabolic diseases, excessive fats get delivered to various tissues. About 10 to 15% are converted into sphingolipids, many of which have deleterious effects on tissue function. Blocking sphingolipid production prevents diabetes and most cardiovascular diseases in rodents. We seek to better understand these mechanisms and determine how the observations can be translated into new therapies and better clinical outcomes.
Dietary Nutrients As Novel Therapeutic Approaches To Appetite Regulation In Health And Disorders Of Eating
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$687,975.00
Summary
The goal of the proposed work is to translate the discoveries from our research on the effects of dietary nutrients, including specific fatty acids and amino acids, on energy intake suppression and blood glucose control into novel, and effective, nutrient-based prevention, management and treatment strategies for people with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Thus, our work will not only generate important new knowledge, but also lead to major health outcomes for the benefit of the general public.
This research is directed toward an understanding of the role of the brain and other organs in the control of how much food we eat, how much energy we expend and how energy sources such as fat and glucose are used and stored. We use animals to help provide this information and focus on areas of body weight control ranging from models of bariatric surgery to studies of the ways that weight loss drugs act in the brain to reduce food intake and increase energy expenditure.
Studies On The Biochemistry And Molecular Biology Of Amyloidosis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$664,584.00
Summary
Amyloidoses are a group of diseases in which protein is abnormally deposited in various organs of the body. The prototypic amyloidosis is Alzheimer's disease (AD), a dementia causing-illness in which a protein known as Abeta is deposited in the brain. The central aim of my research is to understand the molecular etiology of AD and other amyloidoses, with a view to identifying new targets for drug development.
Using Biomechanics To Prevent Injury And Treat Soft Tissue Disorders
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$705,501.00
Summary
In this fellowship, I will use biomechanical testing and analysis methods together with novel imaging methods to design and implement interventions to prevent injuries to children, and to improve treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea and complex disorders of the cerebrospinal fluid system.
Prof Trevor Mori has held an NH&MRC Research Fellowship during 2008-2012. This grant will enable him to continue his research program into 2013-2017. Prof Mori is a biomedical research scientist. His research examines the role of diet and lifestyle on risk factors for cardiovascular disease. He also leads the cardiometabolic team examining risk factors in the Western Australian Pregnancy (Raine) Study.