Common Pathways Influencing Osteoporosis And Atherosclerosis Clinical Risk
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$443,090.00
Summary
It is recognised there are strong inherited effects on bone density and bone turnover as well as cardiovascular markers like serum cholesterol and arterial function. The study will examine the relationship between osteoporosis and atherosclerosis risk using the powerful twin model and two established large twin cohorts in Sydney and Melbourne. The work may lead to better prediction of common risk factors for these two important conditions.
Role Of The Novel TGF-b Superfamily Cytokine MIC-1 In The Pathogenesis And Treatment Of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$309,536.00
Summary
Cytokines are hormone like messengers that mediate the interactions between cells. We have discovered a new cytokine that we have named macrophage inhibitory cytokine 1 (MIC-1). It belongs to a very important family of proteins that are involved in wound healing, development and inflammation. Our data thus far suggests that MIC-1 is an anti-inflammatory factor that is of particular relevance in rheumatoid arthritis. We wish to determine the relationship between the amount of this cytokine in the ....Cytokines are hormone like messengers that mediate the interactions between cells. We have discovered a new cytokine that we have named macrophage inhibitory cytokine 1 (MIC-1). It belongs to a very important family of proteins that are involved in wound healing, development and inflammation. Our data thus far suggests that MIC-1 is an anti-inflammatory factor that is of particular relevance in rheumatoid arthritis. We wish to determine the relationship between the amount of this cytokine in the joint and the blood and the activity of rheumatoid arthritis. To better understand the actions of this molecule, we also want to study the factors that regulate the production of MIC-1 from human blood cells. Finally, to assess whether MIC-1 is useful for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, we will use gene therapy approaches to develop animals that produce increased amounts of MIC-1 and determine whether this prevents or mitigates the development of rheumatoid arthritis.Read moreRead less