Projects include interactions between neuropeptide Y and other peptides in feeding, and the role of neuropeptide Y in cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure. The Australian Venom Research Unit is focused on the problems of the envenomed patient, the venoms that affect them, and the antivenoms used to treat them. This unit conducts research programs for graduates and undergraduates. Opportunities exist for collaboration with members of anaesthetic departments within the University Hospitals. The Unit offers clinical research, as well as in vitro and in vivo models suitable for answering questions relevant to the practice of Anaesthesia.
Anaesthetists are able to embark on studies leading to the award of MD and PhD degrees.
Smaller projects are offered for anaesthesia trainees and medical undergraduates. Our major research effort is to develop small molecules with neurotrophic action which has therapeutic potential in the treatment of human neurodegenerative disease. Methods used include molecular modelling, peptide synthesis, and neuronal cell culture. The goal is to develop methods of early detection and better treatment for diseases such as stroke, asthma, irritable bowel syndrome, and cystitis. Development of novel pharmacological assays both in vivo and in vitro , and exploratory research projects with opportunities for research training are available.