This study is aimed at identifying genetic variants that influence susceptibility to migraine. We plan to use DNA samples already collected from families with multiple migraine affected individuals and sequence a region on the X chromosome that has previously been identified as harbouring a migraine susceptibility gene. This project will identify gene(s) that contain variants contributing to migraine.
Deaths In Young People Involved In The Youth Justice System: Towards Evidence-based Prevention
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$620,705.00
Summary
Young offenders have complex health needs and are at dramatically increased risk of preventable death due to drug overdose, suicide and injury. In order to inform effective prevention, a more detailed understanding of mortality in these young people is required. This project will examine all deaths in young offenders in Queensland from 1993 to 2015, identify targets for prevention, and recommend policy reforms and interventions that are supported by evidence and are culturally appropriate.
IMPROVE - Investigating Medication Re-Purposing To Reduce Risk Of OVarian Cancer And Extend Survival
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$430,196.00
Summary
Ovarian cancer is the 6th most common cause of cancer death in women and the proportion of women who die from their disease has not improved substantially over time. This large-scale study will use de-identified data from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, the Australian Cancer Database and the National Death Index to investigate whether medications commonly used for other conditions can help decrease the risk of ovarian cancer developing or improve survival from ovarian cancer after diagnosis.
Development And Application Of A Mendelian Randomization Framework Aimed At Dissecting The Biological Basis Of Ankylosing Spondylitis And Other Complex Diseases
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$279,666.00
Summary
Our aim is to identify genes and biological molecules that cause a type of autoimmune arthritis called ankylosing spondylitis. Our approach involves finding combinations of genes that are related to biological molecules of interest and then testing to see whether the gene combination is also related to risk of disease. We hope that our strategy will lead to new drug treatments targeting the condition.
Fall Surveillance: Evaluation Of Patients, Practitioners, And Health Data Sources
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$102,680.00
Summary
In Queensland falls account for the highest proportion of injury-related death and hospitalisation among older people. The project aims to provide a comprehensive picture of falls and related injuries in Queensland and assess the possibilities of linking a range of injury-related data sources in primary and acute care. It is anticipated that harmonisation of data collection practices would facilitate greater understanding of falls and inform improved prevention practices and health outcomes.
Achieving Better Mental Health For Maltreated Children: Translating Population Data Into Policy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$522,706.00
Summary
This project uses linked population data to determine (a) the earliest indicators of risk of harm, and (b) mental health outcomes and health-care costs associated with children receiving child protection services, in partnership with the NSW department of Family and Community Services. The findings will ensure timely and effective responses to the most vulnerable children to mitigate adverse mental health and other outcomes associated with early life adversity.
Developmental Schizotypy In The General Population: Early Risk Factors And Predictive Utility.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$830,952.00
Summary
This study will determine early childhood risk factors for psychosis-proneness in children aged 11 years, and emerging signs and symptoms of mental health disorders of these children, using population data from the NSW Child Development Study. Determining risk for psychosis as early as possible in the life course will enable the provision of preventative interventions to children at critical points in development.
Evaluating The Genetic Contribution To Rheumatic Heart Disease Pathogenesis In Australian Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Communities
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,782,074.00
Summary
Rheumatic heart disease is highly prevalent in Aboriginal people in Australia and leads to early cardiac disease. Despite decades of research, the underlying genetic mechanisms for why it occurs are not well understood. We are conducting a genetic study to better understand why some people are susceptible to RHD and others are not. The study will involve substantial Aboriginal leadership and consultation and will be a model for the conduct of genetic studies in Aboriginal populations.
Novel Ways Of Utilizing Genome-wide DNA Methylation Data From Peripheral Blood Samples In Genetic Epidemiology
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$285,186.00
Summary
The aim of this project is to develop statistical methods and paradigms to better leverage the considerable amount of peripheral blood DNA methylation data that has been collected from large scale epidemiological studies. In particular, our focus is on developing and optimizing statistical methods of using DNA methylation profiles to “tag” environmental exposures, so that this information can be better utilized to investigate the genetic and environmental basis of complex traits and diseases.
Energy Transitions, Air Pollution And Health In Australia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$2,491,229.00
Summary
Emissions from burning biomass (including fossil fuels) are major features of our environment and are the 4th leading global risk factor for premature death. As countries shift their patterns of energy use in response to global warming, new challenges are emerging. Understanding this is crucial to our ability to maintain health and stability in uncertain times. This CRE will examine the health consequences of (1) fossil fuel combustion, (2) landscape fires and (3) alternatives to fossil fuels.