Optimising Lung Surfactant Protein Production In The IUGR Fetus At Risk Of Preterm Delivery
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$463,853.00
Summary
Pregnant women at risk of preterm labour after 24 weeks gestation are increasingly administered glucocorticoids in Australian hospitals in order to promote fetal lung maturation and a successful transition to extrauterine life. Antenatal glucocorticoid treatment reduces overall neonatal mortality, the risk of respiratory distress syndrome and the need for respiratory support. Babies that are born small may not benefit from this treatment in the same way that average size babies benefit.
This project examines the types of computations used by brain cells to combine two types of sensory information, in a way that allow us to reach better decisions in everyday life. To address this general problem, we will perform experiments that explore the combination of signals from vision and hearing. The ability to combine sensory information is vital to our mental health, and this process is compromised in a range of psychological, psychiatric and neurological disorders.
Does Periodic Fasting Improve Insulin Sensitivity And Metabolic Health In Humans?
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$846,891.00
Summary
A large body of evidence for the health benefits and life-extending properties of dietary restriction exists. Recent findings suggest that periods of fasting can have beneficial effects, even without an overall reduction in caloric intake. This proposal will compare periodic fasting with and without weight loss, versus daily caloric restriction on metabolic health outcomes in humans and examine mechanisms that may contribute to this effects.
Influence Of In Utero Environment On Diaphragm Structure And Function
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$494,966.00
Summary
The diaphragm is the major muscle involved in breathing. Normal function of the diaphragm is essential to survival. Preterm babies may be exposed to infection and other agents that interfere with diaphragm development and make breathing efforts weaker after birth, potentially leading to respiratory failure. This study will study diaphragms of preterm lambs to determine how fetal exposure to infection and steroids affect fetal diaphragm development, and if adverse effects are prevented by fetal t ....The diaphragm is the major muscle involved in breathing. Normal function of the diaphragm is essential to survival. Preterm babies may be exposed to infection and other agents that interfere with diaphragm development and make breathing efforts weaker after birth, potentially leading to respiratory failure. This study will study diaphragms of preterm lambs to determine how fetal exposure to infection and steroids affect fetal diaphragm development, and if adverse effects are prevented by fetal treatment with blocking agents.Read moreRead less