Energy homeostasis, disease progression and survival - tipping the scales on MND
Hosted by Jacinta Conroy
I completed a PhD in Neuroscience at UQ in 2009, and have a broad background in the field of neuroscience. Over the last 10 years, I have expanded my research expertise, and now lead a translational research program that spans the fields of neuroscience, neurology, physiology, metabolism and endocrinology, stem cell biology, and biochemistry. My research program integrates studies in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients with studies in human-derived cell models (including induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons and primary human muscle cells) and mouse models of ALS to define the impact of metabolic dysfunction on the onset and progression of ALS. To date, my research outcomes have laid the foundation for developing metabolically-directed drug treatments that are tailored to each individual’s needs.
I have over 15 years research expertise in the fields of neuroendocrinology and neuroscience, with a research focus on central (neuroanatomical) and peripheral (physiological) processes/mechanisms that control food intake, growth, reproduction, and metabolism. I have 5 years of clinical research experience, and currently lead a translational research program with a strong focus on the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disease.
Following the completion of my PhD I conducted mechanistic studies using the mouse as a model for hypothalamic integration of energy homeostasis, growth and reproduction. I developed methodologies that are the industry gold-standard for the assessment of patterned hormone release, and more recently, I identified a mechanism through which estrogen enantiomers modulate appetite control. In 2015, I expanded my research focus to incorporate studies to improve our understanding of neurodegenerative disease. As part of this I developed a clinical research program at the Centre for Clinical Research (CCR) and the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH). I lead an integrative research program that aims to improve understanding and capacity to treat mechanisms of impaired energy balance in neurodegenerative disease, with a focus on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
About School of Biomedical Sciences Research Seminar Series
The School of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Series presents seminars by international and national researchers as well as local researchers and postdocs.
Unless otherwise indicated, seminars are held in the Otto Hirschfeld Building, Learning Theatre, 81-313 every second Friday from 2-3pm (note that this is the lecture theatre that you enter from outside on level 3 of Otto).