Assessing the effects of diabetes on gastric electrophysiology and muscle bioenergetics function

New Zealand is currently facing a diabetes epidemic, with diabetic patients experiencing a higher prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction and metabolic disorders. The GI tract, in particular, must maintain an energy-efficient state in order to extract and absorb net positive energy and nutrients to sustain bodily functions. In the stomach and intestines, motility of the smooth muscles is governed by an electrophysiological activity called slow waves, as well as receiving inputs from enteric and central nervous systems. The link between the gut and brain, known as the gut-brain axis, has become a key focus for understanding disease mechanisms and exploring new treatment strategies. In the most recent diagnostic criteria, the diseases have been rephased to the disorders of gut-brain interaction to recognise the importance of myogenic and neurogenic links.

This PhD project aims to investigate how neural degeneration contributes to impaired gastric function in diabetes, focusing on comparing the difference between gastric slow waves and muscle energetics in an induced rat animal model. The study will also explore the therapeutic potential of targeted vagal nerve stimulation in a diabetic rat model.The project integrates cutting-edge techniques, including GI high-resolution mapping and muscle mitochondrial bioenergetics, in order to provide a better understanding of gastric dysfunction and novel treatment approaches in diabetes.

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Engineering, Physics or equivalent
• Experience with data analytics, camera systems, and signal processing
• Experimental physiology would be desirable

This project is eligible for funding but is subject to eligibility criteria & funding availability.

Page expires: 20 December 2025