Reprogramming is the conversion of any cell into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). iPSC carry immense clinical potential as they are pluripotent and can hence form any cell of the human body, however, they can also form tumours. We have identified a cell type during reprogramming which is pluripotent but cannot form tumours. It is the aim of this project to determine the molecular differences between iPSC and this cell type in order to facilitate the delivery of cell replacement therapies.
A novel sensory neural circuit has been identified innervating the airways and lungs. The anatomical organisation of this circuit has been described to some extent in previous studies, however there is a significant gap in knowledge with respect to its functional importance. This project will develop methods to address this knowledge gap and in doing so the project will firstly describe how this circuit controls breathing under normal conditions and secondly how this becomes dysregulated during
The Role Of Stem-progenitor Cells In Regeneration Of Mouse Endometrium.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$311,938.00
Summary
The endometrium (lining of the uterus) undergoes breakdown and re-growth each month as part of the menstrual cycle. This restorative process is not well understood. For the first time stem cells have been identified within human endometrium that are likely to be responsible for its remarkable regeneration. The aim of this project is to identify stem cells within the mouse endometrium, to use as a model to understand how the endometrium restores each month after menstruation.
Developing A Pathophysiological Model For Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Path To Biomarker Discovery
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$314,644.00
Summary
Despite the efficacy of stimulant medication in treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), we lack mechanistic accounts of the neuropathology of ADHD. A major barrier is the lack of human disease models representing clinical symptoms. The derivation of a novel, cell-based ADHD model proposed in this project will shed new light on the physiological bases of ADHD and be a rich resource for biomarker discovery
Developing And Evaluating A Multimodal Antibiotic Allergy Strategy To Improve Antimicrobial Stewardship In High-risk Antibiotic Usage Populations
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$303,014.00
Summary
Antibiotic allergies lead to the use of inferior antibiotics and generation of “superbugs”. Antibiotic allergy testing removes up to 90% of allergies, although remains unavailable to many and unreliable in some severe antibiotic reactions. We aim to validate antibiotic allergy bedside tools and programs, and develop laboratory tests that can diagnose and prevent severe antibiotic allergies, to improve appropriate antibiotic prescribing and patient outcomes.
Iron-Infection Interactions: Studies Of The Link Between Iron Metabolism And Infectious Diseases Of Global Significance
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$383,244.00
Summary
Anaemia, malaria and HIV affect millions of people worldwide, but interactions between these conditions are poorly understood. A haematologist with training in public health, my interest is in finding ways to control the enormous global burden of anaemia. My research will focus on how iron status influences infection with malaria and HIV. It will provide evidence for anaemia control guidelines and help improve global policies for controlling iron deficiency where these infections coexist.