Neural Sensing Of Hunger Links Homeostatic And Reward Pathways
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$444,366.00
Summary
Cells in the brain that respond to signals of hunger also increase motivation to obtain food and there reward value of food. This proposal examines how these hunger cells, called AgRP cells, sense changes in metabolic state in order to increase motivation and food reward pathways. We believe that understanding this process may help us understand why obese individuals overeat foods high in sugar and fat.
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.
In patients predisposed to metabolic diseases, excessive fats get delivered to various tissues. About 10 to 15% are converted into sphingolipids, many of which have deleterious effects on tissue function. Blocking sphingolipid production prevents diabetes and most cardiovascular diseases in rodents. We seek to better understand these mechanisms and determine how the observations can be translated into new therapies and better clinical outcomes.
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.