Improving Weight Loss Outcomes By Minimizing Adaptive Responses To Energy Restriction
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$621,458.00
Summary
While losing excess weight reduces the risk of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, current weight loss strategies are ineffective for most, in part because the body mounts a ‘famine reaction’ that increases hunger, decreases metabolic rate and may also cause loss of muscle and bone mass. This research aims to determine the effects of the famine reaction on body composition, as well as to identify new ways to block the famine reaction with food, thereby enabling more people to attain and maintai ....While losing excess weight reduces the risk of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, current weight loss strategies are ineffective for most, in part because the body mounts a ‘famine reaction’ that increases hunger, decreases metabolic rate and may also cause loss of muscle and bone mass. This research aims to determine the effects of the famine reaction on body composition, as well as to identify new ways to block the famine reaction with food, thereby enabling more people to attain and maintain a healthy body weight and composition.Read moreRead less
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.
Innovations In Cancer Imaging And Targeted Radiotherapy To Improve Human Health
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$926,980.00
Summary
Through a process of discovery, development and investigation we will create medical devices and methods to improve cancer imaging and targeted radiotherapy. Successful completion of this program will directly impact on the treatment and lives of Australian cancer patients in the foreseeable future.This program will substantially build research capacity and productivity within Australia, raise Australia’s profile in cancer research and foster international collaboration.
Manipulation Of Energy Metabolism To Control Lipid Accumulation And Insulin Action.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$804,106.00
Summary
I am a metabolic biochemist investigating how overconsumption of calories, particularly fat, results in dysfunctional energy metabolism and increased the risk of type 2 diabetes. I examine changes in the daily rhythms of energy intake, energy utilisation and energy storage in different tissues of dietary and genetically modified animals to pinpoint novel ways of reducing fat accumulation and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.