
Integrating microbes, genetics, and molecular biology to prevent cardiovascular disease
The Hypertension Research Laboratory
About Us
GUT microbiome for Blood Pressure control (GUT-BP)
Our bold vision is to test, develop, and deliver new, ready-to-implement therapeutic opportunities based on the gut and the microbiome for everyone living with high blood pressure.


Our Story
Blood pressure is regulated systemically by several organs and, thus, requires diverse expertise across multiple disciplines. Despite available treatments, blood pressure remains uncontrolled in 68% of Australians. Solving the barriers to better blood pressure control requires rethinking how blood pressure is regulated and applying this to innovative solutions.
We are a team of biomedical researchers passionate about creating and cultivating a diverse and collaborative research community that empowers and supports the next generation of cardiovascular research leaders. Harnessing over 100 years of combined experience in blood pressure regulation, we came together in 2025 to find novel solutions for better blood pressure control and build the next generation of leaders in hypertension research.
Meet The Team

Prof Francine Marques
Steering Committee Chair & Theme Co-Lead
Monash University - Victorian Heart Institute

Prof Kate Denton
Theme Co-Lead
Monash University - Biomedical Discovery Institute

Prof Grant Drummond
Theme Co-Lead
La Trobe University, Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research

Prof Stephen Nicholls
Theme Co-Lead
Scientific Advisory Committee Chair
Monash University - Victorian Heart Institute

A/Prof Antony (Bill) Vinh
Theme Co-Lead
La Trobe University, Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research

Dr Katrina Colafella Mirabito
ECR Theme Lead
Monash University - Biomedical Discovery Institute

Dr Rikeish R Muralitharan
ECR Theme Lead
Monash University - Victorian Heart Institute

Dr Joanne O'Donnell
Theme Co-Lead, Chair of the Capacity Building Committee
Monash University - Victorian Heart Institute

Dr Simona Antonacci
Project Manager

TBD
GUT-BP Fellows
ECR Theme Lead

David Goodbody
Consumer Advisory Panel Chair
