Neurogenic Hypertension In The Spontaneously Hypertensive Mouse : Role Of The Hypothalamic-brainstem Sympathetic Axis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$475,917.00
Summary
In human high blood pressure, particularly in the young, an overactive nervous system is thought to be a major underlying cause. Using a unique mouse model of high blood pressure which closely resembles this aspect of the human disease, we will examine which brain cells and neuro- chemicals are involved, particularly in a small area that is involved in regulating the hormonal and nervous system response to stress. From this we hope to be able to target these chemicals with specific therapy.
Platelet And Endothelial Function In Atrial Fibrillation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$105,825.00
Summary
Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disturbance in the adult population and leads to substantial increased death and disability from stroke. In this research scheme, we will study the contribution of platelet (clot forming cells) and endothelial (lining of blood vessels) dysfunction in atrial fibrillation. The successful outcome of this project will lead to a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of clot formation and may lead to a better target for future drugs.
Influence Of Flavonoid Structure And Function On Cardiovascular Protection
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$571,447.00
Summary
The proposed research will further explore the hypothesis that dietary flavonoids can protect against cardiovascular disease. The importance of flavonoid structure for bioactivity needs further study. In addition, metabolic changes to flavonoid structure could have a profound effect on their bioactivity. Therefore, our overall aim is to investigate the effects of individual flavonoids and their metabolites on bioactivity relevant to cardiovascular disease.
The Effect Of Smoking On The Exacerbation Of Stroke: Oxidative Stress Involvement And Cerebrovascular Response.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$292,216.00
Summary
This grant addresses whether smoking contributes to the severity of stroke outcome. The studies outlined in this proposal will contribute significantly in our understanding of how smoking contributes to the progression of stroke. The understanding of the involvement of smoking in the progression of stroke will be of great benefit in the development of improved stroke patient management.
Iron And Oxidative Stress In Stable And Unstable Coronary Artery Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$86,570.00
Summary
This PhD investigates the key roles iron and insufficient antioxidants play in worsening tissue injury during and following a heart attack, in precipitating blockages in heart arteries, and in impairing blood vessel function in those with heart disease. By using drugs to remove iron from the body, it is possible to compare the detrimental effects of iron (on tissue injury and blood vessel function) in the group treated with the medication and the group treated with placebo.
In Vivo Evaluation Of Coronary Atheroma Burden And Its Association With Focal Coronary Endothelial Function
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$123,736.00
Summary
Heart attacks remain the leading cause of death in the western world. It has been recently identified that the burden of plaque buildup in the coronary arteries is a major predictor of future heart attacks. Furthermore, it also known that impaired relaxation within the coronary arteries also increases the future risk of heart attacks. The dynamic relationship between these two critical factors remains unknown and an understanding of this is important for predicting future heart attacks.
Clinical Utility Of New Non-invasive Assessments Of Left Ventricular Function.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$48,361.00
Summary
This project involves a series of studies that investigate the use of new ultrasound measurements of heart function in order to assess whether or nor they make a meaningful contribution to patient management, both in terms of diagnosis and monitoring of treatments. Major studies include: 1) Detection and prevention of early heart disease in patients who are undergoing toxic chemotherapy for cancer; and 2) Investigation and treatment of patients with a high blood pressure response to exercise.
Assessment Of The Mechanisms Involved And Severity Of Arterial Disease In Insulin Resistant States
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$64,631.00
Summary
Type 2 Diabetes is a major risk factor towards atherosclerosis or blood vessel narrowing. This can lead to vascular complications such as heart attacks, strokes and amputations. This research aim to examine the relationship between some of the mechanisms and their contribution towards vascular disease in the progression from normal health, through insulin resistance to diabetes. This understanding will provide diagnostic tools and treatment targets for diabetic vascular disease.