As a gut physiologist, my research investigates how dietary components, particularly dietary fibres can alter nutrient absorption and affect metabolic stasis. Current research has demonstrated that DF reduced lipid diffusion through intestinal mucus, which is likely to slow absorption.
I use biophysical, cell and molecular biology approaches to assess effects on digestion and mixing in the gut lumen, the influence of secreted compounds such as bile, the role of the microbiome, on mucosal function, contractility and endocrine response particularly in the small intestine. Understanding the physical and molecular mechanisms by which dietary components interact with each other, the microbiome and the host, can provide better strategies for the prevention and treatment of conditions such as obesity and type-2 diabetes.