Ancestral, conserved and novel mechanisms in marsupial genomic imprinting. Genomic imprinting is the differential expression pattern of some genes depending on whether the gene copy came from the mother or the father. This differential expression is essential for embryonic development and errors lead to disease. To date, most of our knowledge of the control of genomic imprinting comes from the mouse, but much less is known about this process in marsupials. Our comparative approach, using marsupi ....Ancestral, conserved and novel mechanisms in marsupial genomic imprinting. Genomic imprinting is the differential expression pattern of some genes depending on whether the gene copy came from the mother or the father. This differential expression is essential for embryonic development and errors lead to disease. To date, most of our knowledge of the control of genomic imprinting comes from the mouse, but much less is known about this process in marsupials. Our comparative approach, using marsupial mammals that are distantly related to mice and humans, aims to clarify how genomic imprinting mechanisms have evolved, which patterns are conserved across mammals, and which vary. Our proposed research aims to provide new approaches and understanding of this fundamental process essential for the continuation of life.
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Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE120100082
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$180,000.00
Summary
FACSAria III - Fluorescence activated cell sorter. Flow cytometry is a technique for counting and examining microscopic particles, such as cells and chromosomes, by suspending them in a stream of fluid and passing them by an electronic detection apparatus. The FACSAria III cell sorter will be used to establish a core facility for sorting cells. The outcomes from using this technology are a better understanding cellular and genetic understanding of cancer, respiratory diseases, reproduction and ....FACSAria III - Fluorescence activated cell sorter. Flow cytometry is a technique for counting and examining microscopic particles, such as cells and chromosomes, by suspending them in a stream of fluid and passing them by an electronic detection apparatus. The FACSAria III cell sorter will be used to establish a core facility for sorting cells. The outcomes from using this technology are a better understanding cellular and genetic understanding of cancer, respiratory diseases, reproduction and birth. Read moreRead less
Is SPINT1 a key regulator of placental development? . The placenta is an essential organ required for reproduction in placental species. This project aims to elucidate the fundamental biology of SPINT1 in placental development. It will generate new knowledge about whether the spatial and temporal expression of SPINT1 is conserved across several species; cow, sheep, lizard, mouse and human. It will also define the molecular mechanisms by which SPINT1 directs formation, maturation and expansion o ....Is SPINT1 a key regulator of placental development? . The placenta is an essential organ required for reproduction in placental species. This project aims to elucidate the fundamental biology of SPINT1 in placental development. It will generate new knowledge about whether the spatial and temporal expression of SPINT1 is conserved across several species; cow, sheep, lizard, mouse and human. It will also define the molecular mechanisms by which SPINT1 directs formation, maturation and expansion of the placental exchange interface which is critical for offspring survival.
The project will increase understanding of placental development, enhance collaboration and research knowhow, and promote future applied projects in all species that reproduce via placental support.Read moreRead less
Role of Musashi in the regulation of cell cycle proteins. We have identified a protein family that directs cell fate and maintains male fertility. This project will provide new avenues for generation of contraceptives in male animals and to regulate stem cells for production of specialised cell types in biotechnological applications.
The critical role of kisspeptin/neurokinin/dynorphin (KNDy) neurons in gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) release. The brain controls fertility through the secretion of its primary stimulatory factor, gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). Brain cells producing three key peptide hormones, kisspeptin, neurokin B and dynorphin (termed KNDy cells) are vital for the control of GnRH. This project will detail the role of KNDy cells in puberty and reproduction.
Mechanisms of manchette function. This project aims to define the function of the manchette, a poorly understood microtubule-based structure present in haploid male germ cells. This project aims to define key mechanisms underpinning manchette development and movement, and to generate a detailed picture of the dynamics of germ cell development using imaging technologies and unique animal models. Such knowledge should improve the understanding of how male fertility is achieved, the origin of infer ....Mechanisms of manchette function. This project aims to define the function of the manchette, a poorly understood microtubule-based structure present in haploid male germ cells. This project aims to define key mechanisms underpinning manchette development and movement, and to generate a detailed picture of the dynamics of germ cell development using imaging technologies and unique animal models. Such knowledge should improve the understanding of how male fertility is achieved, the origin of infertility and how species-specific differences in sperm form are achieved. Such insights may ultimately lead to improved agricultural efficiencies and job creation.Read moreRead less
Building child health through maternal wellbeing. Chronic diseases partly originate in the health & social circumstances of previous generations, during pregnancy, and in conditions during infancy and childhood. This project will draw from three community studies the researcher established to investigate how aspects of women's health affect their children's health and identify new opportunities for disease prevention.
Chemical principles underpinning a spermostatic-microbiostatic agent capable of preventing pregnancy and the spread of sexually transmitted disease. This project explores the development of a method for simultaneously controlling fertility while preventing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. A novel aspect of the approach, that will dramatically influence product development, is that the active principles will only be generated on contact with seminal plasma.
Discovery Early Career Researcher Award - Grant ID: DE120100796
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$375,000.00
Summary
Androgens and ovarian function. This innovative project aims to identify the role androgens play in the complex processes required for successful ovarian follicle development and ovulation. The project aims to identify androgen regulated pathways that orchestrate follicle development, which will have significance in the control of fertility and the advancement of reproductive technologies.
Reprogramming maternal and paternal genomes during development: new perspectives from marsupials. This project will use marsupials to examine programming of the germ cell lineage (cells that become eggs and sperm) and the evolution of these mechanisms that control their development. Using the unique features of our Australian native animals, this research will contribute to the understanding of the transmission of life.