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The Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease investigates human clinical aspects of obesity and diabetes, focusing particularly on energy balance regulation and obesity-related conditions like diabetes and sleep apnoea. Our collaboration with Aintree University Hospital's Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology supports over 100 researchers exploring bioscience, epidemiology, health concerns, patient experiences, lifestyle factors, and healthcare approaches.
Our institute serves as a hub for examining the diverse biological and social factors affecting ageing and chronic diseases across the lifespan. Central to our work is the understanding that modern research requires integrated methodologies using advanced technologies to study cellular, organ, and whole-body functions in both healthy and diseased states. Our investigations span from molecular studies to population-level research, bridging laboratory discoveries with clinical applications.
Our methodologies incorporate functional neuroimaging of appetite regulation in endocrine disorders (through LiMRIC collaboration), real-time appetite monitoring, and metabolic studies of liver and muscle function - including euglycemic clamp techniques - in obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. We conduct clinical trials and maintain research partnerships with African institutions. Our veterinary research parallels these interests, examining metabolic disorders in pets, livestock, and animal models of human disease. Preclinical work emphasizes fat cell biology, particularly adipose tissue hormones, with strong ties to clinical research groups.
Our training programs (MPhil, PhD, MD, and post-doctoral) expose students to diverse disciplines, with many contributing to public science communication. Graduates often secure prestigious post-doctoral positions worldwide or pursue careers in healthcare, government, or industry.
Our impactful research has attracted funding from major partners including Wellcome Trust, UK Research Councils, NIH (USA), Unilever, and GSK. With comprehensive research facilities and strong academic networks, we're positioned to advance our ambitious goals in ageing and chronic disease research.