Investigating The Potential Of Human Stem Cells To Repair The Degenerating Auditory Nerve After Deafness
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$310,787.00
Summary
One in four Australians is predicted to experience some form of hearing loss by 2050. Hearing loss is irreversible and the chief clinical treatment available for severe to profound hearing loss is a cochlear implant. However, cochlear implant efficacy is limited by the degeneration of the auditory nerve following hearing loss. Using stem cells, this project will develop techniques to restore function to the auditory nerve through replacement of the specialised cells that comprise it.
Interaction Of TRP Channels And Inflammatory Mediators: A Critical Role In Visceral Pain
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$308,747.00
Summary
Transient receptor potential, or TRP channels, are involved in generating many of the sensations we feel, such as touch and pain. The function of these channels can be altered by substances released by the body during inflammation. Some TRP channels have specialized roles in signalling pain from the colon which can be enhanced during colonic inflammation. Understanding how TRP channels and inflammatory mediators function and interact is essential if we are to find treatments for colonic pain.