Mammalian Endotoxin: Characterisation Of Highly Inflammatory Endogenous Material
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$915,859.00
Summary
Inflammation drives development of many common diseases including heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's disease and diabetes. We understand how bacterial molecules initiate inflammation during infections, but the nature of inflammatory stimuli that promote degenerative diseases of ageing has been elusive. In this project we will identify highly inflammatory molecules that have become altered in cells under stress. Knowledge of these pathways will promote new treatments for chronic diseases.
ARX- A Hub Gene For A Common Biological Pathway In Schizophrenia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$707,974.00
Summary
Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder with no cure. I have identified that some people with schizophrenia show variations to a gene called ARX. This project will use preclinical mouse models to explore how variations to the Arx gene affect brain molecules, networks of cells and behavioural outcomes. This biological pathway will provide the framework for the identification of new molecules to target therapeutically to modify the biological course of schizophrenia and improve outcomes.
Targeting The Crosstalk Between Metabolism And Epigenetics To Treat Liver Fibrosis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,032,259.00
Summary
Virtually all liver disease related morbidity and mortality is a consequence of fibrosis that culminates in liver failure or liver cancer. Since anti-fibrotic drugs are not available, new approaches to drug development are required. We have discovered a novel strategy for such drug development by modifying the expression of a specific gene (RARRES1) in a highly targeted manner and thereby interrupting the energy production that is needed by cells to drive fibrosis.