Cellular Contributions To PAR-2's Essential Role In Periodontal Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$648,786.00
Summary
Periodontal disease is a disease of the gums, which ultimately causes loss of teeth. It is a debilitating condition affecting about 20% of Australian adults. PAR-2, a receptor for protein-degrading enzymes, which is present on cells in the gums, is known to be required for development of the disease. This project will investigate the mechanism of PAR-2’s involvement in periodontal disease and provide ideas for development of treatments.
Does Teriparatide Reverse Osteonecrosis Of The Jaw In Patients With Cancer? A Randomised, Controlled Trial
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$357,412.00
Summary
Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is debilitating and associated with drugs that increase bone strength and reduce the bone remodeling rate (bisphosphonates or denosumab). Up to 15% of patients with bone marrow cancer and 1 out of 952 patients with osteoporosis treated with bisphosphonates may get ONJ. This 8-week trial of subcutaneous teriparatide (a hormone that forms new bone) or placebo injections aims to promote resolution of ONJ, measured clinically and by x-ray, and improve quality of life.
Investigation Into Oral Cancer In Non-drinking And Non-smoking Females
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$109,358.00
Summary
There has been an increase incidence of oral cancer in female non-drinkers, non-smokers. The five year survival following diagnosis can be as low as 15-50% as most cancers are advanced at the time of discovery.Precancerous and cancerous oral lesions may mimic any number of benign oral lesions, and as such may be left without investigation and treatment until well advanced. Further investigations into the cause of oral cancer other than smoking and alcohol will aid in management.
Oral Cancer is a devastating disease that is associated with poor survival and greatly impacts the lives who do survive. This project aims to develop a tool to inspect the changes of molecules called microRNAs, in saliva and skin cells of the mouth, collected using a simple, painless method, which will help to predict the risk of patients developing oral cancer.