La Trobe University > LIMS > Research programs > Cardiovascular Biology > Robyn Murphy group

Robyn Murphy group

Skeletal Muscle biochemistry and physiology

My overall research interest is in the area of skeletal muscle in health and disease. The research of my group focuses on various aspects of skeletal muscle biochemistry in health and disease, using exercise and disease models in humans, as well as animal models. In particular, we measure proteins in segments of individual fibres allowing issues with the heterogeneity of skeletal muscle to be overcome. We also examine movement of proteins following micro-dissection of fibres, allowing us to quantitatively assess the redistribution of proteins following various interventions. We are intersted in understanding changes in metabolites in particular condidtions and stages of life.

Research areas

The absence of dysferlin results in a type of Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy. The role of dysferlin in muscle remains incompletely understood. Using highly sensitive biochemical techniques we examine this, along with the location of dysferlin following reintroduction using AAV technology, where we aim to recapitulate amount and location in muscle.

Creatine supplementation was researched intensively in the 1990's and early 2000's, where we identified the mechanism of how it enhances the ability for muscle to perform better during periods of supplementation. Also, that cycling creatine supplementation has the most effect.

GLP-R1A drugs, such as Ozempic, are being used worldwide to assist people lose weight, which is excellent for addressing the increasing proportion of the population who are overweight or obese, which leads to serious downstream consequences. Studies have shown that the loss of body weight involves loss of adipose tissue, but also loss of muscle mass. Muscle constitutes ~40% of total body mass and is crucial for movement and stability. It is crucial to understand why this occurs and to test drugs that may prevent this muscle loss.

Meet the team

Group leader

Postdoctoral researcher

PhD researcher

Honours researchers

  • Nicholas Whyte
  • Dante Torres

Research assistant

  • Heidy Flores