Adrenocortical cancers have a poor prognosis. It is essential that patients with adrenocortical cancers be diagnosed early and accurately to enable the initiation of appropriate treatment. Current methods do not reliably differentiate benign adrenal tumours from adrenocortical cancers. The aim of my project is to identify molecular markers which can accurately distinguish benign adrenal tumours from adrenocortical cancers, allowing accurate diagnosis and institution of optimal therapy.
Linking Estrogens, Prostatitis And Prostate Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$291,309.00
Summary
Prostatitis is very common and a significant health issue that affects men from their 20's. Estrogens promote inflammation and inflammation is associated with the development of cancer. If this study links estrogens, prostatitis and prostate cancer, we can provide better treatment for prostatitis, thus preventing progression to prostate cancer
Focimatrix Regulation Of Sex Steroid Hormones In The Ovary
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$291,309.00
Summary
Sex steroid hormones (e.g. oestrogen and testosterone), are important to male and female health. In the ovarian follicle I identified a novel form of extracellular matrix (focimatrix) which develops in the ovary before the synthetic enzymes needed for sex steroids are present. Using evidence from other tissues, I developed ideas on how this matrix regulates the enzymes for hormone synthesis. I will examine a mechanism by which focimatrix could directly affect steroid hormone production.
The Assessment And Treatment Of Cardiovascular Risk Factors,diabetes And Insulin Resistance In Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$304,047.00
Summary
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and Type II Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) are major health burdens in Australia. T2DM is increased and CVD may be increased in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition present in 10% of women and 30% of obese reproductive aged women. We aim to explore risk factors for CVD and T2DM in women with PCOS and to assess the effect of treatment strategies on metabolic and reproductive features in PCOS. This is crucial for reducing disease risk in this common condition.