The Role Of Non-classical MHC Class I Molecules In Adaptive Immunity
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$443,834.00
Summary
Specialised proteins called MHC class Ia molecules (MHC-Ia) stimulate killer T cells to lyse virus infected cells. In contrast, the function of the closely related MHC-Ib is uncertain. Recent findings have demonstrated that MHC-Ib can also be recognised by T cells and this interaction is important in the control of viral infections. However, despite the similarity to MHC-Ia, it is unclear how this interaction occurs. This project aims to investigate how killer T cells recognise MHC-Ib molecules.
PHARMACOGENETICS OF ANTIDEPRESSANT RESPONSE AND REMISSION: TOWARD GENOTYPE-GUIDED PRESCRIBING IN MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$435,524.00
Summary
A “one-size fits all” approach to antidepressant pharmacotherapy in depression is suboptimal. Current technology and scientific data support the transition to a personalised approach to antidepressant pharmacotherapy. My research will (1) develop and test genetic based algorithms for their ability to predict antidepressant response and remission and (2) evaluate the clinical validity and utility of currently available algorithms in clinical practice.
Improving Internet-delivered Psychological Therapies For Depression And Anxiety
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$437,034.00
Summary
Depression and anxiety affect 3 million Australians. While effective psychological treatments exist, even the best only help 50% recover, and relapse is common. My research aims to improve the treatment of adult depression and anxiety, through developing more effective, efficient and accessible internet-delivered psychological therapies and identifying the conditions that promote optimal long-term outcomes.
Mood and anxiety disorders represent a tremendous cause of disability and morbidity. This research will use cutting-edge brain imaging technologies to understand why these disorders typically emerge in young people and whether brain imaging can reliably predict the effectiveness of different treatments for individual patients.
Neuroimaging In Mental Health: The Quest For Clinically Useful Biomarkers
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$437,034.00
Summary
To ultimately improve treatment of mental illness, this research program aims to detect robust and reliable neuroimaging markers that are associated with affective disorders by pooling data from many samples across the world. Moreover, this research aims to develop alternative biological-based classifications of mental illness in young people, and evaluate their clinical value by examining their predictive value for treatment response and disease course.
Integrated Exploration Of Novel Therapies For Depression
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$476,728.00
Summary
There is a clear need for new therapies for psychiatric illnesses, particularly depression. Current antidepressant therapy is useful but leaves many with a shortfall to functional recovery. My research program investigates new therapies for depression, in the context of the biological understanding of depression.
Diet And Mental Health: Translating New Knowledge Into Innovative Prevention And Treatment Strategies
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$463,652.00
Summary
I have pioneered the development of a robust body of evidence demonstrating the important role of diet in mental health and I am now recognised internationally as a research leader in this new field. The next important step is to translate this knowledge into new prevention and treatment strategies in order to address the substantial global burden of illness attributable to mental disorders.
Development And Evaluation Of Health And Residential Care Service Delivery Models For Older Adults And People With Chronic Disease.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$466,492.00
Summary
This fellowship will focus on developing and evaluating new models of health and residential care service provision to meet the impending demands of our ageing population. This research will encompass multi-state health services research in residential aged care, comparison of models of service provision in the hospital setting, and exploration of the intersection of physical and mental health amongst older adults.
Improving Online Mental Health Programs: Tailored Assessment Meets Tailored Therapy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$478,065.00
Summary
The proposed research will develop a personalised mental health program designed to address multiple mental health problems: major depression, anxiety disorders and substance use disorders, and suicidality. The program will increase efficiency and user engagement by tailoring content based on individual needs, context and preferences. Ongoing monitoring using new methods of assessment will allow a responsive and flexible approach to care.