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Mechanisms of obesity and type 2 diabetes; insights from bariatric surgery

Year:
2014
Duration:
12 months
Approved budget:
$83,333.00
Researchers:
Dr Richard Carroll
Health issue:
Obesity
Proposal type:
Clinical Research Training Fellowship
Lay summary
I am a clinical endocrinologist wishing to pursue a career in academic endocrinology, and I am undertaking a PhD exploring the pathogenesis of obesity and type 2 diabetes. The prevalence of both diseases is rapidly approaching epidemic proportions in New Zealand, and further research into disease mechanisms and potential interventions is required to help prevent a health service disaster. I wish to study the pathophysiology of obesity and type 2 diabetes through exploring the role of gut peptides and the effects of dietary and surgical interventions on normal physiology. Bariatric surgery provides a unique model for the study of obesity as early and significant weight reduction is seen (superior to any other intervention yet studied), and is associated with marked, and as yet incompletely understood improvements in glucose homeostasis. Studies on those who undergo bariatric surgery are likely to afford invaluable insights into the mechanisms of obesity in humans.