Extracellular Acidification And Its Role In Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$371,529.00
Summary
This proposal focuses on the diseases cystic fibrosis and acute pancreatitis for which there are currently no treatments. In both diseases the affected organs become strongly acidic. Furthermore, these acid changes can be causal in disease progression. However, the source of this acidification is remains unknown. We will identify the routes of acid secretion, the causal role of acidification in disease progression and the effectiveness of treatments aimed at restoring acid-base balance.
Fibrosis is a key cause of renal pathology-dysfunction. Relaxin is an endogenous reno-protective factor, and thus has enormous therapeutic potential. However, despite compelling pre-clinical evidence of its efficacy, little is known about relaxin's mechanism of action. These studies will lead to a much better understanding of its signal transduction properties that will allow us to maximise its anti-fibrotic potential; identify new targets for intervention; and design better clinical trials.
Preventing Blindness: Blocking TGF¤-induced EMT And Cataract Development
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$343,824.00
Summary
Cataract, the loss of transparency of the eye lens, is a major cause of blindness. We have identified molecules in the lens important for maintenance of its transparency and plan to characterise their effectiveness in preventing cataract formation.