P2X7 Mediated Phagocytosis Of Apoptotic Cells: A Common Mechanism Underlies Neurological And Eye Disorders
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$527,033.00
Summary
We have found a strong genetic linkage between a protein called P2X7 and a number of neurological disorders, in line with our recent discovery of a novel function of this protein in clearance of dying cells as removal of unhealthy neurons is essential to keep brain function promptly. Further study using genetic association, cell biology and animal models will lead to a conceptual advance on how neurological diseases are occurred and developed.
Identifying Rare Genetic Variants Conferring Susceptibility To Multiple Sclerosis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$293,898.00
Summary
Recently there has been success in identifying common genetic variants that confer susceptibility to multiple sclerosis. The variants that have been discovered so far have modest effects on risk of disease, and only explain a small proportion of familial aggregation of disease. In this study we aim to identify rarer genetic variants that have stronger effects on risk of disease, using new statistical methods and new methods to sequence very large amounts of DNA.