Determinants Of Tissue- And Ligand-Specific Responses At The Mineralocorticoid Receptor
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$668,485.00
Summary
The steroid hormone aldosterone controls salt balance and hence, blood pressure. It also has been shown to have a significant role in cardiac failure. Although drugs that block the aldosterone receptor are beneficial in the treatment of heart failure, they are limited by potassium retention in the kidney. In order to develop tissue-specific blockers of the aldosterone receptor, it is necessary to identify mechanisms by which the receptor can be activated and/or blocked in specific tissues.
The steroid hormone aldosterone controls salt balance and hence, blood pressure. It also has been shown to have a significant role in cardiac failure. Although drugs that block the aldosterone receptor are beneficial in the treatment of heart failure, they are limited by potassium retention in the kidney. In order to develop tissue-specific blockers of the aldosterone receptor, it is necessary to identify mechanisms by which the receptor can be activated and/or blocked in these tissues.
Mechanisms Underlying Impaired Neuroplasticity In Adolescents Born Preterm
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$528,449.00
Summary
Preterm birth can lead to learning and motor deficits. We have preliminary evidence that these deficits last into adolescence and are due to a limited ability of the brain to reorganise (plasticity). We will confirm and characterise the learning/motor deficits seen in adolescents born preterm and explore if impaired plasticity is responsible. This project will provide vital information for the development of novel interventions to help children born prematurely to achieve best outcomes.
Stress Vulnerability In Youth With Borderline Personality Disorder
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$873,689.00
Summary
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a severe mental disorder with adverse long-term outcomes, including suicide. BPD is characterised by vulnerability to stressful life events and catastrophic responses to stress. This study of youth early in the course of BPD examines the baseline biological characteristics of the stress response system, how these characteristics might be influenced by treatment and how this relates to treatment outcome. The findings will inform early intervention for BPD.
Exploring Modifiable Candidate Risk Factors For Mental Illness In Young Adults: Infection, Vitamin D And Stress
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$857,095.00
Summary
There is evidence to suggest that low vitamin D, chronic stress and certain common infections (e.g. the cold sore virus) may impact on the brain and contribute to an increased risk of mental disorders (e.g. depression, psychotic-like experiences). Using blood and hair samples, and detailed psychiatric interviews, we shall explore these research questions in a large sample of young twins. We hope to find causes of mental illness that can be modified via public health measures (e.g. the use of nut ....There is evidence to suggest that low vitamin D, chronic stress and certain common infections (e.g. the cold sore virus) may impact on the brain and contribute to an increased risk of mental disorders (e.g. depression, psychotic-like experiences). Using blood and hair samples, and detailed psychiatric interviews, we shall explore these research questions in a large sample of young twins. We hope to find causes of mental illness that can be modified via public health measures (e.g. the use of nutritional supplements, counselling, vaccines).Read moreRead less