Upper Gastrointestinal Function And Glycaemic Control In Diabetes Mellitus
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$780,872.00
Summary
There is now increasing recognition that the stomach and intestines, by regulating the absorption of nutrients into the body and by releasing hormones that enhance insulin secretion, play a central role in the control of blood glucose in diabetes mellitus. We seek to understand the nature and causes of disturbed gut function in diabetes, so that we can optimise dietary and drug strategies to prevent and treat this condition.
Immunomodulatory Molecules Of Parasitic Helminths As Novel Therapeutics For Allergic Disorders.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$321,532.00
Summary
Australia has one of the highest rates of asthma in the world with almost 3 million Australians are affected by this disease. Previous research has shown that infection with various types of parasitic worms lessens the severity of asthma. The aim of this research is to find out why this happens and to isolate the ingredients from the parasite that suppress asthma. Once found, these molecules can be used to create new drugs for the prevention of asthma and allergies in children and adults.
Targeting The Human Immune Response To Bacterial Superantigens.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$165,424.00
Summary
This research investigates the human immune response to infection with toxin producing bacteria. Toxins activate the human immune system which can lead to serious illness or the development of disease that can progress rapidly and be associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Investigating the harmful effects of infection with toxin producing bacteria in humans and the damage caused by their toxins is essential for the development of effective therapeutic strategies.
Cells recycle old components using a system called the proteasome. Some people are born without parts of the proteasome, and they suffer from a disease associated with inflammation. We have identified the molecular trigger for this inflammation. Our findings are also relevant for patients being treated with proteasome inhibitors. In some of these diseases, such as lupus, inflammation can be a side-effect of proteasome inhibitor therapy, and we can now reduce this and make the treatments safer.