Natalie Trevaskis | Targeting lymph-fat interactions to develop new treatments for diabetes
There is a global epidemic of obesity, insulin resistance (IR) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Excess abdominal fat increases the risk of IR and T2D but the reasons are not completely understood. The intestinal lymphatics flow through abdominal fat. Recent studies from our lab have demonstrated that in obesity lymph fluid 'leaks' from intestinal lymph vessels leading to fat expansion and changes that promote IR.
This project aims:
1. To confirm the potential to treat IR/T2D through targeted modulation of lymph content and/or lymph access to abdominal fat
2. To identify the components of lymph that promote changes in fat function leading to IR
The studies will advance understanding of the mechanisms that drive IR/T2D and inform the design of improved treatments for obesity, IR and T2D.
Research Placement
Undertake a placement of a defined period in an external institution, either domestic or international, gaining experience in a different research environment that will augment your PhD.