Novel Single-chain Antibody-targeted Nanoparticles For Diagnosis Of Vascular Diseases In Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$460,797.00
Summary
The aim of this project is to develop targeted imaging agents that seek out specific markers for various states of cardiovascular disease. These agents would provide a method for detecting the presence and level of atherosclerosis and thrombotic events. The targeted nanoparticles may provide a unique opportunity to detect very early plaques, the vulnerability of existing plaques and difficult to diagnose vessel blockages such as pulmonary embolism.
The Immune Modulatory Function Of Chondroitin Sulphate A In Placental Malaria: Protecting The Fetus, Promoting The Parasite?
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$529,206.00
Summary
Pregnant women and their babies are susceptible to placental malaria infection. Malaria parasites infect the placenta by binding to chondroitin sulfate A (CSA). CSA levels increase in normal pregnancy. Studies suggest that CSA can suppress immune cell function. This study will look at the immune modulating function of CSA during pregnancy and placental malaria. CSA may act as camouflage, hiding the malaria parasite from immune cells. This may be a novel immune evasion pathway.
How Do Bone-active Drugs Increase Patient Survival?
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$613,952.00
Summary
Bisphosphonates are a class of drugs used to prevent bone destruction in diseases such as osteoporosis. Evidence is emerging that these drugs also act on cells outside the skeleton to have additional beneficial effects, for example prolonging patient survival. This project will identify the cells affected and the mechanisms involved. With this knowledge, these drugs could be used more effectively and in different ways for the prevention or treatment of cancer and chronic human illnesses.
Deciphering The Role Of Intron Retention In Monocyte Differentiation And Function
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$511,114.00
Summary
In 2013, we made a breakthrough discovery that certain parts of genes, previously considered “Junk DNA”, are actually carrying signals to control the amount of proteins produced in cells. We now wish to understand the roles of these signals in the development of a key immune cell called monocyte. Monocytes are important to fight infection and inflammation in diseases such as diabetes and cancer. We hope to advance our knowledge on how we can manipulate these cells for therapeutic gain.