Using Artificial Synapses To Investigate The Functional Pathology Underlying Epilepsy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$515,256.00
Summary
Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder. Some forms arise from hereditary mutations to GABA-A receptors. To advance our understanding of epileptogenesis, it is necessary to understand how mutations affect GABA-AR function. We will use a novel ‘artificial synapse’ system to characterise these mutant receptors. This will define how epilepsy is caused and inform us how to best tailor drug treatments for different epilepsy conditions.
Unraveling the role of N-acetyl-aspartate in normal brain function and disease. The purpose of this project is to define the role of the predominating brain chemical N-acetyl-aspartate for normal nerve cell function and as toxic agent causing neurological illness and severe mental health problems. Findings of this research will enhance the design of novel therapies involving pharmacological and genetic treatment.
The Alpha5 GABA-A Receptor: Delineating An Emerging Therapeutic Target
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$481,178.00
Summary
GABA-A receptors mediate inhibitory synaptic transmission in the brain. Receptors containing ?5 subunits are therapeutic targets for many neurological disorders. We aim to characterise the functional properties of the main ?5-containing isoforms using high-resolution imaging and whole-cell recording. Our goal is to understand which ?5-containing isoform should be preferentially targeted (and how) when seeking to treat the various disorders in which these receptors have been implicated.
A Novel Mechanism For Therapeutically Modulating Neurotransmitter-activated Ion Channels
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$667,529.00
Summary
This project aims to elucidate the mechanisms by which macrocyclic lactones bind to brain ion channel receptors. This will reveal fundamental new insights into the operation of these receptors and will have important implications for the design of novel treatments for a variety of central nervous system disorders.
Inhibitory Neurotransmitter Receptors As Therapeutic Targets For Chronic Pain And Anxiety Disorders
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$763,409.00
Summary
There are currently few effective long-term treatments for chronic pain and anxiety disorders. Here we propose to develop innovative therapies for both of these debilitating neurological disorders. In addition, we plan to improve our current understanding of how these disorders occur in the first place. This may identify novel potential therapeutic strategies for treating pain, anxiety and a host of other neurological disorders.