Amino acids as nutrients - the molecular basis of amino acid absorption in kidney and intestine. Nutrition is a critical factor for well being and health. This is highlighted by the increase in frequency of type II diabetes and the obesity problem that all societies with a western diet face. Most studies in nutrition focus on fat and carbohydrates because of their direct involvement in obesity and diabetes. Proteins and the resulting peptides and amino acids, however, form 10-15% of our nutritio ....Amino acids as nutrients - the molecular basis of amino acid absorption in kidney and intestine. Nutrition is a critical factor for well being and health. This is highlighted by the increase in frequency of type II diabetes and the obesity problem that all societies with a western diet face. Most studies in nutrition focus on fat and carbohydrates because of their direct involvement in obesity and diabetes. Proteins and the resulting peptides and amino acids, however, form 10-15% of our nutrition. At a time where protein-rich diets are recommended to fight obesity and diabetes, it is important to understand the basis of protein absorption and metabolism. This project investigates the mechanism and mediators of amino acid absorption in kidney and intestine. Read moreRead less
THE MECHANISMS OF PHOTOPROTECTION IN PLANTS - A GENOMICS AND PHOTOPHYSICAL APPROACH. Coping with adverse environmental conditions is central to plant survival in nature so understanding the photoprotective mechanisms of light acclimation is important for crop improvement. Therefore, effective acclimatory mechanisms at whole plant, cellular and molecular levels are essential to accommodate short and long-term exposure to potentially photodamaging full sunlight and environmental stresses, such as ....THE MECHANISMS OF PHOTOPROTECTION IN PLANTS - A GENOMICS AND PHOTOPHYSICAL APPROACH. Coping with adverse environmental conditions is central to plant survival in nature so understanding the photoprotective mechanisms of light acclimation is important for crop improvement. Therefore, effective acclimatory mechanisms at whole plant, cellular and molecular levels are essential to accommodate short and long-term exposure to potentially photodamaging full sunlight and environmental stresses, such as drought and temperature extremes that lead to plant death or greatly reduced crop yields due to free radical damage. This project brings together a unique cross-disciplinary expertise in biophysics, biochemistry, physiology and genomics to elucidate the known mechanisms and identify unknown factors in photoprotection.Read moreRead less
Trade policy: maximising benefits for nutrition, food security, human health, and the economy. Depending on how it is done, trade can be good or bad for peoples' health and social well-being. This study will provide evidence to support the development of trade policy which combines economic as well as social and health goals. This will help improve global food security and human health, reduce poverty and support good international relations.
Shrinking the food-print by creating consumer demand for sustainable and healthy eating. The negative impacts from the food choices made by many Australians are posing challenges to individual wellbeing and to maintaining a viable natural world. Drawing on innovative public health and consumer research, this project will identify opportunities for encouraging consumers to move towards more environmentally sustainable and healthy diets.