About the Centre

The Metabolic Research Centre encompasses researchers interested in all aspects of metabolism.

Membership of the current group consists of Professor A J (Tony) Hulbert, Associate Professor P L (Paul) Else, Dr T M Mitchell and Dr Barbara Meyer (BMS) and associated research assistants and students. Associate members include Dr Steven Blanksby. The group has extensive linkages both internationally (the Dunn Institute - Cambridge, AstraZeneca Sweden) and nationally (e.g. Gavan Institute - Sydney, Chemistry and Physiology Departments - Sydney University).

Research Foci

• Influence of membrane lipid composition on cellular process i.e. Membrane Pacemaker Theory of metabolism

• The role of membrane lipid composition in ageing i.e. Membrane Pacemaker Theory of Ageing

• Lipid analysis by mass spectrometry - as applied to human diseases of metabolism, ageing, exercise and in the modulation of metabolic rate

• Role of polyunsaturated fat in human diseases of metabolism

• Membrane properties influenced by lipid composition

Research Capacities

• Gas chromatography of fatty acids (also small organic gases - ethane and pentane)

• Mass spectrometry of lipid molecules

• Cell isolation techniques and measurement of enzymatic and cellular process

• Subcellular fraction isolation and reconstitution techniques

• A willingness to develop techniques based on research requirement (i.e. the questions the is priority)