Brain temperature regulation in mammals: mechanisms and consequences [ 2003 - 2005 ]

Research Grant

Researchers Dr SK Maloney Prof D Mitchell Dr DP Blache

Brief description Mammals detect increases in body temperature predominantly in the brain. Counterintuitively many mammals selectively cool the brain during heat stress, which appears to defeat the mechanism for inducing cooling responses. We intend to investigate this apparent anomaly which we believe is concerned with optimizing water use in hot conditions. We will further investigate the source of water for evaporative cooling by panting and discover if there has been convergent evolution in thermoregulatory strategies in the eutherian and marsupial lineages. The data we collect will be used to support a new model for thermoregulation in mammals.

Funding Amount $150,000

Funding Scheme Discovery Projects