Biology of ageing

Advances in healthcare have prolonged lifespans but have also generated implications for our capacity to cope with steadily increasing numbers of elderly people. With older people experiencing increased rates of disability, disease and functional impairment, society needs to adjust to support an increasingly ageing population.

We investigate lifestyle factors that influence ageing, including nutrition, exercise and social engagement. We also investigate practical solutions, including nutritional interventions, information technology solutions, and legal advocacy in residential care and dementia.

1. The effects of different diets on ageing and age-related cardiometabolic disease, cognitive impairment and cancer. We are undertaking several large studies using the geometric framework to study the relationship between nutrition and age-related health outcomes in mice.
2. The effects of low-protein diets and plant-based protein on health in older humans. We are carrying out a large clinical trial with older people to trial diets varying in protein, carbohydrates and animal-versus-plant-based protein.
3. The role of the microbiome in the relationship between health and diet. We are evaluating the oral and gut microbiome in several mouse and human dietary studies.

By examining the ageing process, our research will find solutions to improve the quality of life of people who make up the ageing population in Australia. 

• Professor Garry Barrett
• Professor Deborah Black
• Professor Fiona Blyth
• Professor Ian Cameron
• Professor Lindy Clemson
• Professor Victoria Cogger
• Professor David Le Couteur (Project Node Leader)
• Professor Robert Cumming
• Professor Maria Fiatarone-Singh
• Dr Danijela Gnjidic
• Professor Sarah Hilmer
• Associate Professor Andrew Holmes
• Professor Yun-Hee Jeon
• Dr Masaomi Kato
• Professor Sue Kurrle
• Emeritus Professor Stephen Leeder
• Professor Richard Lindley
• Professor Christopher Little
• Professor Andrew McLachlan
• Associate Professor Vasi Naganathan
• Dr Fiona O'Leary
• Associate Professor Kate O’Loughlin
• Professor Sallie Pearson
• Professor David Raubenheimer
• Professor Stephen Simpson
• Professor Matthew Vadas
• Professor Frederick Wright
• Barry Zani de Ferranti

External collaborators

• Dr Nick Cerneaz, Warren Centre
• Professor Gustavo Duque, University of Melbourne