The Biology of growth, development and function group focuses on investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and function of human organs and tissues in health and disease.
Members of our group have specific expertise in skeletal, smooth and cardiac muscle biochemistry and physiology.
Our group possesses a wide range of technical expertise spanning in vitro (tissue culture), rodent, and human models. There is a focus on investigating human and rodent models of skeletal muscle wasting, including ageing, fasting, motor neurone disease and muscle dystrophy. Tissue samples from patient populations are analysed to evaluate the potential clinical relevance of our work.
Regulatory approaches in cell and rodent models of human disease include the use of locked nucleic acid inhibitors and adeno-associated viruses. Isolated muscle and whole body muscle contraction (exercise) is also performed. Members of our group have experience in conducting human exercise trials involving muscle tissue collection (muscle biopsies) and radiolabelled isotope tracer infusion. Specific areas of focus include muscle protein metabolism, non-coding RNA-mediated gene regulation, mitochondrial biogenesis, and muscle regeneration.
This group covers:
- Investigating the impact of physical activity and nutrition on the growth, development and function of human organs and tissues over the lifespan
- Identifying novel molecular targets for skeletal muscle growth, development and function in health and disease
- Investigating the role of the immune system in the regulation of skeletal muscle growth and regeneration
- Investigating the interaction between neural pathways and skeletal muscle and how this affects muscle function.