Faculty of Health Sciences & Medicine

Future Research Projects

HERBAL MEDICINES FOR GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS - MECHANISMS OF ACTION

Supervisor

Dr Pete Johnson
Assistant Professor of Physiology

BACKGROUND

The popularity of herbal medicines in Australia is increasing dramatically and they are currently used by over 20% of the population. However, for many herbal medicines, proof of efficacy is lacking and cellular mechanisms of action are unknown. This study will characterise the mechanisms of action of turmeric (Curcuma longa) and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), which are commonly used treatments for gastrointestinal disorders. Pilot studies in our laboratory have shown that extracts of these herbs alter intestinal motility by modulating the function of specific enteric neurotransmitters.

AIMS OF THE PROJECT

Following the characterisation of whole extracts, the effects of the major active phytochemical constituents (eg. curcumin) will be investigated in order to determine those responsible for the pharmacological actions of the extracts. This will provide an evidence base for the quality use of these extracts in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. It will also identify the active constituents of these extracts and facilitate the development of novel therapeutics based on these lead compounds.

METHODS

This Honours project will combine functional studies of motility and water and electrolyte secretion in cultured epithelial cells and animal intestine in vitro, to investigate the effects of turmeric and fennel and elucidate their mechanisms of action.