Deciphering The Metabolic And Endocrine Profile Of Healthy Adipocytes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$563,194.00
Summary
Obesity is associated with the development of metabolic diseases, however, it is becoming clear that it is where the excess fat is stored that is more important when predicting the health risks associated with obesity. This project aims to identify whether adipocyte progenitor cells, which eventually become fat cells, are ‘preprogrammed’ and whether differences in these cells explain the generation of either healthy or unhealthy fat in different locations of the body.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction In Cardiac Hypertrophy And Failure
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$164,821.00
Summary
Heart failure is a disease of wide prevalence in the Western World. In addition to the human toll of heart failure, the economic impact is highly substantial. It remains unclear what causes heart failure, but the effects of calcium and free radicals produced in the mitochondria on muscle function are generally accepted as major contributors. The aim of this project is to understand how calcium and free radicals interact with each other and the mechanisms by which they reduce heart function.
Adrenergic Activation Of Brown Adipose Tissue In Humans.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$323,301.00
Summary
Obesity is a major health and financial threat to society in the near future, thus new anti-obesity therapies are essential. Activation of brown adipose tissue (BAT) can increase resting energy expenditure by 20%, and its recent conclusive identification in adults renewed interest in its potential as an anti-obesity target. We will determine whether BAT can be activated pharmacologically in humans, whether obesity reduces its activity and if long-term drug treatment can increase BAT function.