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Biology of ageing

Increasing lifespan and delaying age-related illness

Our mission is to increase understanding of ageing in order to improve quality of life and increase human lifespan.

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.