We have discovered a single tumour factor which causes cancer cachexia, a wasting condition that is one of the worst complications of malignancy, for which there is no current effective treatment. We have developed antibodies which effectively block this condition in preclinical models and have produced human/humanised version of this. This application is to characterise these human antibodies to allow us proceed to clinical trials.
Breathe Well: Improving Cancer Imaging And Targeted Radiotherapy Using Audiovisual Biofeedback
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$606,847.00
Summary
Irregular breathing causes anatomical errors in medical images and consequently cancer targeting accuracy, resulting in poorer clinical outcomes and increased health care costs. We have developed and patented the Breathe Well Audio Visual (AV) biofeedback device, to improve breathing regularity. Our goal is to gather critical scientific information and reach commercial proof-of-concept objectives that will allow us to attract investment to establish a viable medical device enterprise.
Achieving Targeted Delivery Of Drugs To Uterine Muscle In Women For The Prevention Of Preterm Labour
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$469,008.00
Summary
We have patented liposomes targeted to the uterus, which enable us to deliver drugs specifically to the muscle cells of the uterus, increasing safety. The liposomes can be loaded with drugs that either block or promote contractions, creating a versatile drug delivery system that could treat premature labour or postpartum haemorrhage which are major clinical problems. We seek support to demonstrate their effectiveness in mouse and primate models of preterm labour prior to human studies.
Humanisation And Pre-clinical Validation Of A Therapeutic Anti-cancer Antibody
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$699,136.00
Summary
This grant will develop a novel antibody against a protease expressed on cancer cells. Preclinical studies, and antibody humanisation, will be performed. This project will also provide vital information on optimal therapeutic approaches with the antibody that can be ultimately taken into human trials.
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+)-raising Agents For Improving Oocyte Quality
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$445,827.00
Summary
Many women cannot have children because of suboptimal egg quality, often due to aging. Currently, the only option is to use better quality eggs donated from another woman. This project will use pharmacological agents to promote recently discovered pathways in eggs central to determining quality. Importantly, we will investigate a simple and practical approach that can be used in clinics for augmenting these pathways to improve oocyte quality for the first time.