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How Does Fra-1 Regulate The Invasive Properties Of Tumour Cells?
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$468,119.00
Summary
Most cancer deaths occur when tumours spread and destroy vital body functions. The invasion of tumour cells into surrounding tissue is a critical step during the spread of cancer. This project aims to unravel the molecular mechanisms that control the ability of tumour cells to invade into surrounding tissue and subsequently spread to other sites in the body. We expect to identify potential targets to better diagnose and treat the spread of cancer.
Regulation Of Actin Polymerization During Malaria Parasite Invasion Of The Human Erythrocyte
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$318,147.00
Summary
Malaria parasites depend on successful invasion of red blood cells for their survival. Invasion is powered by a molecular motor based on two key proteins: actin and myosin. Non-specific drugs that inhibit parasite actin block invasion, demonstrating how important its regulation is to parasite success. This project will study several newly identified malaria actin-regulators, aiming to identify new drug targets that will block malaria actin function, stop motility and as such prevent disease.
Investigating Cytoskeletal Dynamics Across The Lifecycle Of The Malaria Parasite
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$387,741.00
Summary
During its lifecycle the malaria parasite must cross tissues and invade cells in two very different hosts - humans and mosquitos. Although the molecules that drive this process are known, we know nothing about their dynamics in live parasites. Here, we will use state-of-the art microscopy and genetics to dissect parasite motility, tracking proteins in the parasite cell on their journey from human host through to the mosquito - utilising the first Australian malaria-dedicated insectary.
Dissecting The Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome With Complementary Genetic, Proteomic And Biophysical Strategies
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$490,352.00
Summary
Pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) is an eye condition in which flaky material deposits in the eye, greatly increasing the risk of cataract and glaucoma which can lead to blindness. PEX is also associated with heart disease, strokes and aneurysms. Cataract surgery in PEX patients has a higher rate of complications. In this project we will determine the nature of PEX material and why it forms. This knowlege will facilitate better diagnosis and treatment of PEX preventing associated blindness.
Investigating The Role Of The UPF3B Gene And Nonsense Mediated RNA Decay (NMD) Process In Mental Retardation.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$572,710.00
Summary
Intellectual disability is a frequent and important medical problem. Genetic and environmental factors contribute about equally to the aetiology of intellectual disability. Estimated 1-3% of population suffer from a form of intellectual disability. Among the genetic factors contributing to intellectual disability are genes, and their mutations, on one of the human chromosomes, chromosome X. We have been studying human X-chromosome genes for many years and discovered in excess of 20 novel genes c ....Intellectual disability is a frequent and important medical problem. Genetic and environmental factors contribute about equally to the aetiology of intellectual disability. Estimated 1-3% of population suffer from a form of intellectual disability. Among the genetic factors contributing to intellectual disability are genes, and their mutations, on one of the human chromosomes, chromosome X. We have been studying human X-chromosome genes for many years and discovered in excess of 20 novel genes causing various forms of intellectual disability. Surprisingly the number of genes, in which mutations cause various forms of intellectual disability is unexpectedly high. Just on the human X-chromosome we expect in excess of 200 such genes, which is nearly 30% of the gene content of this chromosome. We propose to study a novel gene, UPF3B, we recently identified to be mutated in a form of intellectual disability. The normal function of this gene and its protein is known to a certain extent. The UPF3B protein plays a role of a guardian of other genes in human (and also other species) cells. The role of the UPF3B protein is to prevent erroneous genetic information to be used for the building of proteins with potentially toxic effects to the organism. In our patients this process clearly malfunctions as a consequence of the damaged UPF3B gene. We propose to shed some more light in to the molecular intricacies of this process with the aim to better understand the mechanics of the process. Families, which participate in our studies and have this gene involved will benefit from the availability of direct test. Multiple other families around the world are also likely to benefit, now or in the future.Read moreRead less
Non-HFE Haemochromatosis In Australia: Natural History And Molecular Characterisation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$179,948.00
Summary
Hereditary haemochromatosis (HH) is a disorder characterised by excessive iron absorption and build up of iron in body organs such as the liver. The excess iron can be toxic and cause disease. Most HH is caused by mutations in the HFE gene. Other forms are caused by mutations in other genes. This project will characterise a new form of HH that is unrelated to any of the previously known genes. The project aims to find the gene for this new condition by genetic analysis in a large family.
Understanding Virulence In Staphylococcus Aureus And Impacts On Host Response
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$574,890.00
Summary
Golden Staph remains an important cause of serious infections in Australian patients. New strategies to combat this disease require a better understanding of how Golden Staph causes disease and escapes the natural human response to infection. This study will provide new insights into how Golden Staph causes disease, and provide a platform for developing new strategies to prevent and treat Golden Staph infections.