The focus of the physiology of the organism grouping is to study the metabolism and function of micronutrients and phytochemicals at the cellular, organ and whole body level in order to determine requirements for optimal health and prevention of disease.

Our research interests include:

  • Mechanisms of dietary isothiocyanates in cancer prevention
  • Phytochemical metabolism and human health
  • Micronutrient metabolism in health and disease
  • Mechanisms of airway inflammation and its resolution
  • Clinical assessment of airway inflammation
Prof Aedin Cassidy
identifying novel biomarkers using a metabolomics approach
Comparing biological efficacy of physiologically relevant metabolites of isoflavones
to parent compounds
understanding bioavailability and biological effects of different flavonoid sub-classes in vivo
Dr Sue Fairweather-Tait
Mineral bioavailability and bioactivity
Relationships between genotype, phenotype and the dietary supply of inorganic nutrients
Mineral requirements for optimal health and the prevention of chronic disease
Dr Yongpin Bao
Interactions between isothiocyanates and selenium in gene expression.
Role of isothiocyanates in cancer
Identification of novel anti-cancer biomarkers using microarray and proteomics approaches
Dr Darren Sexton
Role of epithelial cells and granulocytes in airway inflammation.
Role of Innate Immune lectins in airway inflammation & recognition of apoptotic cells, 
fungi, viruses & bacteria. 
Effect of Vitamin D and selenium on epithelial cell function and airway inflammation.