Determining The Influences Of Cell Stress And Heat Shock Factor-1 Action In Osteoclast Formation And Pathological Bone Loss.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$657,287.00
Summary
Cancer and rheumatoid arthritis cause painful bone destruction. This occurs due to increased numbers of bone destroying cells called osteoclasts. We found stress responses in bone cells can increase osteoclast numbers by activating proteins inside the bone cells that encourage osteoclasts to form. We will thus study whether cell stress blocking drugs might stop bone loss. As arthritis and cancer both cause stress responses, this work could identify a new way that such diseases affect bone.
Does Teriparatide Reverse Osteonecrosis Of The Jaw In Patients With Cancer? A Randomised, Controlled Trial
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$137,700.00
Summary
Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a debilitating bone condition involving damage and suboptimal healing of bone involving the jaw. This has been associated with bisphosphonate therapy, which is commonly used for the treatment of both cancer and osteoporosis. My research aims to investigate the role of recombinant parathyroid hormone in the stimulation of bone formation and healing and, thus, its potential to reverse ONJ.
Parathyroid Hormone-related Protein (PTHrP), Common Genetic Variants In The PTHrP Gene (PTHLH), And Breast Cancer Risk And Survival
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$120,253.00
Summary
In a partnership between Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, and The University of Melbourne, we are investigating the role of PTHrP, a peptide integral to the growth and spread of Cancer. Initially thought to facilitate cancer spread, recent studies suggest it may actually be protective. In a new approach, we will analyse new DNA databases and patient data from around the world. We hope to extend our understanding of PTHrP, and perhaps find novel drug and therapeutic targets.
Contribution Of MDSC-derived Cysteine Cathepsins In Breast Cancer Metastasis To Bone
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$320,891.00
Summary
Cathepsins are enzymes called proteases that function to cleave specific proteins, a process that is important for many normal cellular functions. Aberrant cathepsin activity can result in a number of pathologies, including cancer and inflammation. We are developing tools called activity-based probes to study the function of cathepsins in disease. Specifically, we will investigate their activity within cells of the immune system with the goal of developing novel therapeutic approaches.