Discovering Novel Molecules That Regulate Axonal Degeneration.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$588,622.00
Summary
The axon is the primary signaling component of every neuron and is essential for normal function. Axonal degeneration is a key early pathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. We lack a basic understanding of molecules that regulate this process. Such knowledge is essential for the development of treatments and therapies for dementia and the preservation of healthy ageing. I aim to discover the molecules that regulate axonal degeneration and study their function.
Dissecting The Host X Diet X Microbiota Interactions Supporting Sustainable Weight Loss In Obesity
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$252,305.00
Summary
There is increasing evidence that the gut microbiome plays an important part in predisposing to obesity. This project seeks to identify whether such an obesogenic microbiota may also influence our ability to maintain weight loss after a period of caloric restriction. Further, we investigate whether dietary fibre can be used to reshape gut microbial population structure and function so as to support sustained weight loss on return to a normal dietary regimen using an obesogenic rat model.
Kidney Mesenchymal Stem Cells In Tubular Development, Repair And Turnover
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$989,141.00
Summary
In Australia, 11.3% of deaths are associated with chronic kidney disease with >$1 billion per annum spent on treating this condition. At present, only dialysis and transplantation are available to treat end stage kidney disease. We have found a kidney stem cell population in both human and mouse that can form new epithelial structures. In this project, we will investigate the normal role played by these kidney stem cells and examine whether they can contribute to kidney regeneration.
Improving The Health Of Older Australians At Risk Of Dementia - The Role Of Physical Function And Exercise
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$533,120.00
Summary
This fellowship will support novel research to examine whether exercise can improve the cognitive and physical health of individuals at risk of dementia such as those with Type 2 Diabetes or cognitive impairment. Outcomes are likely to delay the onset of dementia and enable older Australians at risk of dementia to maintain independence and improved quality of life.
Improving Mental Health And Social Participation Outcomes In Older Adults With Depression And Anxiety
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$791,581.00
Summary
This study will evaluate a comprehensive treatment program for older adults who are suffering depression and anxiety. We expect that this new treatment program will be more powerful than standard cognitive behavioural therapy. Through this treatment we will increase social participation and quality of life and reduce depression and anxiety in older Australians.
A Telehealth Intervention To Delay Functional Decline In Community-dwelling People With Dementia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$476,399.00
Summary
Telehealth programs are becoming increasingly popular as a way to increase the accessibility of services and reduce the costs associated with health professionals travelling to the client's home. This project will examine whether an evidence based intervention that delays functional decline can be delivered via videoconferencing and whether this method of delivery is as effective.
Impact Of Exercise Intervention On The Phenome (Metabolism And Predictive Complications) In Well Characterised Prediabetes And New Onset Type 2 Diabetes Cohorts In China And Australia (TheDiabeEx.JointStudy).
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$567,323.00
Summary
This proposal will study people with prediabetes or a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, compared with a group with normal blood glucose, in China and in Australia. It will examine, in well defined cohorts: 1. the extent of traditional and more novel organ complications and metabolic markers early in the disease course; 2. in people with abnormal blood glucose, the potential benefits of an exercise regimen to their metabolic health, biomarkers and complications.
This Fellowship will examine factors that contribute to depression and other behavioural symptoms in people with Alzheimer's type dementia. These symptoms are common and difficult to treat so it is extremely important that we gain a better understanding of why they develop and look at ways to prevent their occurrence. The study will also test a simple, safe and novel intervention aimed at altering the biases we have in our thought processes that may underlie the development of these symptoms.
Optimising Exercise Prescription For Brain Health In Older Adults At Risk Of Dementia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$594,123.00
Summary
To reduce dementia burdens in the community, cost effective and targeted early regenerative strategies are critical. Engaging in frequent aerobic exercise is one strategy that can delay the onset and slow the progression of dementia. However, prescription is limited by an incomplete understanding of how exercise positively influences brain health. Here I will investigate the influence of current exercise levels, intensity and exercise environment on brain health in adults at risk of dementia.