Our research - overview

Research in C-PAN spans basic metabolism and physiology, through clinical and behavioural studies, to community and population-based research.

Our research is organised into three complementary programs:

Muscle health- identifying factors influencing muscle development and functioning, and developing strategies to improve muscle health.

Food, lifestyle and health  - modifying lifestyle practices and the food supply to reduce chronic disease burden and understanding sensory determinants of food choice and the impact on health.

Behavioural epidemiology - understanding and influencing eating, physical activity and sedentary behaviours and the factors impacting upon them.

Key areas of research include:

• Investigating the role of nutritional factors and exercise on muscle health and function throughout the lifespan.
  
  
• Determining and understanding the molecular processes that control muscle wasting, growth, regeneration and function.
  
  
• Assessing salt intake and sources of salt in the Australian diet in children and adults.
  
  
• Investigating the role of various nutrients and lifestyle practices on osteoporosis, obesity and cardiovascular disease.
  
  
• Understanding the role of taste sensitivities (e.g. fat, salt) in food choice and health.
  
  
• Measurement and monitoring of dietary intakes, dietary patterns, physical activity and sedentary behaviour, and the influences on these health behaviours.
  
  
• Understanding and improving physical activity, sedentary behaviours and eating behaviours in infants, pre-school, primary and secondary school children, adults and older adults.
  
  
• Examining factors influencing active transport and independent mobility in children, particularly those related to safety and perceived risk.
  
  
• Understanding socioeconomic disadvantage in relation to obesity, eating and physical activity, and development of strategies to improve health behaviours amongst disadvantaged communities and individuals.
  
  
• Investigating neighbourhood design and urban planning and its impact on food access and physical activity opportunities within communities.