Mitochondrial Energy Metabolism And Insulin Action
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$380,558.00
Summary
Obesity and type 2 diabetes are two major health conditions associated with abnormal energy metabolism. In this proposal I will investigate the role of important metabolic proteins in regulating energy expenditure and insulin action in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue, two crucial tissues for whole-body energy metabolism. These studies will provide critical insight into the factors leading to obesity and type 2 diabetes and will assist in identifying possible therapeutic targets.
Generation Of Mouse Models To Study The Roles Of Different Bcl-2 Family Members In The Regulation Of Apaptosis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$420,872.00
Summary
Programmed cell death, or apoptosis, is required for the removal of infected, damaged or unwanted cells and its disrupted regulation is implicated in cancer, autoimmunity and degenerative disorders. The Bcl-2 family of proteins are key regulators of apoptosis. We propose to generate several mouse models to better understand the relationships between the different members of the Bcl-2 family in an effort to control this pathway for therapeutic purposes.
The proposed program of work aims to shed light on dietary, environmental and genetic factors that may be related to the risk of childhood cancers. Identifying these risk factors, and how they interact with each other, will provide clues as to how childhood cancers may be prevented. The research program includes a number of Australian and international studies, which will involve collaboration between doctors and research scientists from a range of disciplines.
Improving Long-term Weight Loss By Deactivating The Famine Reaction With Molecular Or Lifestyle Means
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$420,872.00
Summary
Dr Amanda Sainsbury-Salis’ research will clarify which hormones and natural brain chemicals interact in the hypothalamus of the brain to control the famine reaction, the survival mechanism that slows your weight loss when you are on a diet. By knowing precisely which natural chemicals mediate the famine reaction and how they interact, it will be possible to weaken them by pharmaceutical and - or lifestyle means, thereby enabling more people to reap the benefits of being lean and healthy.
Cellular Mechanisms Underlying Neurodegenerative Disease And The Neuronal Response To Trauma
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$406,264.00
Summary
Brain and spinal cord injury are major causes of death and disability, with degenerative diseases similarly affecting large proportions of the population. The singular objective of my research proposal is to increase our understanding of the molecular and cellular processes by which nerve cells respond to trauma and diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, and to identify new therapeutic approaches aimed at encouraging the repair of damaged cells.