This research proposal will identify changes in liver-secreted proteins during the development of fatty liver, and in the transition from fatty liver to the more advanced form of liver disease, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Understanding the differences in protein secretion between NASH patients and patients with normal/fatty liver will provide the opportunity to identify disease biomarkers that could be determined from a blood sample. This will provide a major shift in clinical care.
Advancing Glycine To The Clinic For Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$248,978.00
Summary
We have identified the therapeutic potential of the amino acid glycine for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), the most common and severe of the muscular dystrophies. To facilitate rapid translation to the clinic, this proposal will; 1) examine the effect of glycine on lifespan and quality of life in mouse models of DMD; 2) determine glycine’s mode of action; and 3) investigate whether these effects represent further benefits to those currently used gold standard treatments.
The Alternate Renin Angiotensin System; A Novel Target For The Prevention And Treatment Of Liver Fibrosis And Portal Hypertension
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$693,950.00
Summary
Cirrhosis of the liver due to chronic hepatitis and other common liver diseases is now a major cause of illness and death in Australia. This project will examine how a hormone system called the renin angiotensin system contributes to the development of liver damage in these diseases. We will study whether drugs targeting this system can be used to reduce liver scarring and prevent the development of cirrhosis and its complications.