University of Tasmania, Australia

Description

Research Overview

The group's research centers on the pharmacology of capsaicin, and several related vanilloids, including resinferatoxin. Vanilloids and vanilloid receptor antagonists have therapeutic implications in the treatment of pain and inflammation. The focus of our current studies is the expression and role(s) of vanilloid receptors in human blood cells (leukocytes and platelets) in health and disease, and the potential benefits of vanilloid ingestion on cardiovascular disease risk factors.

Current projects include:

• TRPV1 expression in haematological malignancies
• Leukocyte TRPV1 expression in chronic kidney disease
• Effects of plant-derived and endogenous vanilloids on platelet function
• Role of TRPV1 in cytokine release and inflammatory function
• Effects of vanilloid ingestion on cardiovascular disease risk factors

Expression of TRPV1 by human peripheral blood cells

Current Collaborators

Assoc Prof Dominic Geraghty
School of Human Life Sciences

Professor Madeleine Ball
School of Human Life Sciences

Dr Murray Adams
School of Human Life Sciences

Dr Dale Kunde
School of Human Life Sciences

Dr Kiran Ahuja
School of Human Life Sciences

Dr Iain Robertson
School of Human Life Sciences

Dr Cecilia Shing
School of Human Life Sciences

Professor Rob Fassett
University of Queensland

Professor Jeff Coombes
University of Queensland 

Methods

The laboratory is well resourced to conduct a variety of techniques.

Funding

Present and past funding from UTas, NHMRC and Clifford Craig Medical Research Trust.

Link to Publications and Current Projects (via WARP):

http://rmdb.research.utas.edu.au/public/rmdb?indiv_detail_warp_trans+265)

Contact

For further information on current and/or future projects, please contact Assoc Prof Dominic Geraghty(email: D.Geraghty@utas.edu.au, or phone: +61 3 6324 5483).

Past and Current Honours and Research Higher Degree Students