I am a Molecular Biologist who has built up a large set of transgenic animal models based around the NPY system to use them in an integrated physiology approach to investigate important regulatory mechanisms in the interaction of the brain with peripheral
Epilepsy is a devastating disease with many patients poorly treated. We have identified a novel ion channel target in the brain that reduces seizure susceptibility. The aim of this proposal is to fully explore this target in a number of epilepsy mouse models using both pharmacology and molecular techniques.
Analysis Of The Plasmodium Falciparum M18 Aspartyl Aminopeptidase
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$613,683.00
Summary
Malaria remains a major cause of death and disease in many parts of the world. There is widespread resistance to all currently used drugs and an urgent need for new treatmants. We have identified the malaria enzyme, aspartyl aminopeptidase as a new drug target. This proposal will investigate the biological role of this enzyme and has the potential to identify new compounds which may be effective antimalarial drugs.
The Role Of The NPY System In The Regulation Of Appetite And Satiety
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,088,384.00
Summary
Eating disorders that have a causative role in the development of obesity and anorexia present massive health care problems for which current preventive methods and therapies are unsatisfactory. The studies proposed here combine sophisticated molecular techniques with state-of-the-art biochemical and physiological analyses. By utilising a panel of unique mouse models (many of which are only available to us), missing or overproducing key factors in the regulation of appetite and satiety this rese ....Eating disorders that have a causative role in the development of obesity and anorexia present massive health care problems for which current preventive methods and therapies are unsatisfactory. The studies proposed here combine sophisticated molecular techniques with state-of-the-art biochemical and physiological analyses. By utilising a panel of unique mouse models (many of which are only available to us), missing or overproducing key factors in the regulation of appetite and satiety this research will make highly original and internationally competitive contributions to the understanding of these disorders. The results will have a significant impact on the development of novel diagnostics and potential treatments for obesity and anorexia. In addition, funding provided through this grant would not only help to find answers to these important questions but will also provide the basis for the generation of several novel mouse models. These animal models will also be beneficial tools for the wider scientific community here in Australia and worldwide. We have a proven record in the generation and comprehensive analysis of transgenic and knockout mice models making this proposal not only feasible but also highly likely to succeed and provide great new insight into extremely important health problems.Read moreRead less
Identifying Brain Pathways Responsible For Stress Induced Obesity
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$895,663.00
Summary
Obesity-associated diseases are leading causes of death and are expected to increase as the obesity epidemic worsens. New evidence also shows that stress, an ever-increasing factor of life, can when combined with high caloric food lead and accelerate the development of obesity. The results from this study will help to identify new agents that may help reduce body weight and fat mass particular under conditions of increased stress.
Identification Of Cancer Initiating Cells In Small-cell Lung Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$364,420.00
Summary
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Recently a unique mouse model of small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) has been generated that closely mimics the human disease. We will use this model to identify the cells that give rise to SCLC upon genetic alteration. Results obtained will assist in designing more effective intervention strategies aimed at overcoming initial and acquired resistance of these tumours against cytotoxic and targeted drugs.