Characterisation Of Erusiolin - A New Peptide Hormone
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$547,202.00
Summary
Obesity and type II diabetes are epidemic diseases in Australia. Gut-derived hormones are key mediators in these diseases, due to their role in regulating appetite and blood glucose levels. Therapeutic modulation of these hormones also provides significant benefits for patients. In this proposal, we will determine the metabolic functions, such as appetite control, for a previously uncharacterised hormone, which is an unexplored therapeutic target for obesity and diabetes.
Effects Of Dietary Amino And Fatty Acids On Energy Intake And Glycaemia - Implications For Novel Approaches To The Management Of Obesity And Type 2 Diabetes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$584,032.00
Summary
Current obesity treatments are limited in efficacy or have adverse effects. Our research has shown that specific fatty acids and amino acids markedly suppress energy intake and reduce blood glucose, without adverse effects. The goal of the proposed work is to evaluate the translational potential of these discoveries in obese diabetic patients. Ultimately, we hope to develop the findings from this research into novel, nutrient-based strategies for the management/prevention of obesity/diabetes.
Bitter Taste As A Mediator Of Food Intake And Postprandial Glycaemia In Health And Type 2 Diabetes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$735,430.00
Summary
The gut “tastes” contents passing through it in a similar manner to the tongue. Recent evidence suggests that bitter substances in the gut can reduce appetite and slow the emptying of meals from the stomach, by stimulating gastrointestinal hormone release. We propose studies to understand how this system functions in health and type 2 diabetes, and whether it can be targeted to provide new diabetes treatments
Gastric Counter-regulation Of Hypoglycaemia: Studies In Health And Diabetes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$357,193.00
Summary
Insulin injections are often needed to treat diabetes, but they can cause low blood sugar levels (hypoglycaemia), which are usually distressing, and sometimes fatal. The stomach is important in regulating blood sugar; in response to hypoglycaemia, it empties food much more rapidly, allowing carbohydrate to be absorbed faster to normalise blood sugar levels. The proposed studies will explore this important area, in order to develop better ways of preventing and treating hypoglycaemia.
Wheat Proteins, The Duodenal Microbiome And Immune Activation In The Aetiopathogenesis Of Non-coeliac Gluten Sensitivity And Functional Dyspepsia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,997,150.00
Summary
Functional dyspepsia, characterised by troublesome pain in the upper abdomen, or an inability to finish a regular sized meal, is common, affecting up to 15% of Australians. There are no effective treatments. This project will evaluate the role of diet, in particular wheat, as a driver of the subtle inflammation and disturbances in the microbiome seen in the small intestine of functional dyspepsia patients, and test whether a gluten or wheat free diet is an effective treatment option.
Development Of Selective Melanocortin Receptor Agonists And Antagonists
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$684,607.00
Summary
Human melanocortin receptors play a key role in a variety of physiological processes ranging from energy regulation, skin pigmentation and regulation of food intake. This project aims to generate novel peptide based molecules that will selectively interact with different melanocortin receptors to better understand their pharmacology thereby opening the potential for future drug development for obesity, stroke or inflammatory skin disorders.