Head – Dr Jeremy Jowett
The Genomics and Systems Biology laboratory is working toward providing a better understanding of the process that causes obesity and diabetes by identifying disease-predisposing genes, their products and how those products interact with other elements in the cell; and, in turn, how the cell’s function is affected by these genes in its physiological role within the body. Understanding this process will aid in the development of more accurate diagnostic tests and lead to improved therapeutic drugs which will ameliorate, cure or prevent the development of obesity, type 2 diabetes and related metabolic conditions.
The primary interest of this laboratory is in discovery of disease related genes. A major research study, that began in 1998, is currently underway to identify the genes responsible for the development of type 2 diabetes. Building on the outcomes of past investigations carried out by the lab, this research focuses on a region of chromosome 12, which has been determined as being likely to carry one or more of the diabetes causation genes. To increase the chances of speedily identifying the culprit genes, the researchers adopted the novel approach of focusing on genes that differ in their activity levels between people with and without diabetes. This enabled narrowing of the field from more than 200 genes to 25 genes.
Across these 25 genes, the researchers are examining how naturally occurring inherited changes contribute to changes in the individual’s ability to control blood glucose.
In addition to gene discovery the genomics and systems biology lab is undertaking broader molecular profiling studies in humans which will provide invaluable information about the disease process itself at a very detailed molecular level. Building upon earlier work undertaken through collaboration with US Scientists, we have determined that gene activity levels in blood are affected to a large extent by inherited factors (i.e. genes). In a sense we are “hard-wired” to a degree in how we as individuals respond dynamically to the environment in which we live. In these new innovative molecular profiling studies we shall examine not only gene activity levels but also a number of other recently discovered molecular states that can affect gene activity (methylation and microRNAs). Additionally we shall look at lipid (or fat) content and protein make-up in great detail using mass spectrometry.
These detailed molecular investigations shall be related back to the individuals health status and answers sought as to why some people are at greater risk of obesity than others, why some develop type 2 diabetes, and even why among those with diabetes some develop severe organ and tissue damage (i.e. complications) while others do not. We shall even examine why some people respond better to certain classes of drugs than others, and look at the physiological consequences of exercise and diet at a molecular level.
With the application of the very recent technological advances in molecular profiling equipment, this research program will offer critical new insights into human biological diversity at a molecular level and how this diversity combined with diet and physical activity impacts upon our health.