Research focus
The overall aim of my research is to investigate discrete aspects of the gut-brain axis at the genetic, anatomical, physiological and behavioural level, evaluating its therapeutic potential for the treatment of obesity.
Background and experience
My primary area of interest is the metabolic syndrome, which developed during my PhD in the Neuroendocrinology Research Group at the University of Nottingham. During my PhD, I ascertained the role of VGF in energy homeostasis. As a postdoctoral research associate at the Medical School, I learned a unique combination of neuroendocrinology and metabolic physiology whilst seeking to gain greater understanding of the central and peripheral roles of FGF21.
Working at the IMS-MRL
I lead on multiple projects within the Gribble/Reimann group at the IMS:
1) We recently demonstrated that selective stimulation of colonic L cells improves metabolic outcomes in mice (Lewis et al., 2020). Building on this, we have shown that manipulation of RXFP4, the cognate receptor for insulin-like peptide-5, alters food intake in mice (Lewis et al., 2022).
2) I was recently awarded a European Foundation for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) research grant to investigate the role of gut-derived GIP in the regulation of food intake and body weight (in mice).
Awards
2022 EASD Research Grant
2019 The Physiological Society satellite support for Physiology of Obesity and Diabetes (PODS) at Physiology 2019, Aberdeen, UK
2016 British Society for Neuroendocrinology Project Grant
