Development And Application Of A Novel Technology, CaptureSeq, To Focus Sequencing To Discover Genes In ‘empty’ Genomic Regions Associated With Disease.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$421,747.00
Summary
Dr. Mercer will develop a new technology, CaptureSeq that is able to focus RNA sequencing on targeted regions of interest. This focus gives CaptureSeq an unprecedented sensitivity to discover new genes and regulatory elements in regions of the genome that have been associated with disease but are otherwise barren and empty. This project will thereby uncover both new genes candidates for further disease research and develop a technology with unique and widespread research and clinical potential.
Using Good Measurement Principles To Examine Musculoskeletal Disease And Improve The Evaluation Of New Diagnostic Tests
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$387,489.00
Summary
This proposal will apply good measurement principles to 2 important but under-resourced areas: 1) To examine risk factors for musculoskeletal disease (particularly osteoarthritis or “wear and tear” arthritis) and to determine how changes in these risk factors in our community will affect the burden of disease, thus identifying new targets for disease prevention. 2) To improve our ability to evaluate how well new diagnostic tests function when introduced into our healthcare system.
Novel Targeted Onco-theranostic Nanoparticles For Personalised Therapy And Real-time Monitoring
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$437,034.00
Summary
I will develop novel specific cancer therapies using next generation nanoparticles. These particles will deliver highly potent drugs to cancerous tissue avoiding damage to healthy organs. My project has the potential to increase the quality of life and survival of patients suffering from the most invasive/malignant cancers, including breast and prostate cancer.
Molecular Epidemiology Of Cancers Of The Pancreas And Skin.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$387,489.00
Summary
Pancreatic cancer is the 4th most common cause of cancer death in Australia. The causes of this disease are largely unknown. I am conducting research designed to understand genetic and environmental causes of pancreatic cancer. Skin cancer occurs more frequently than any other cancer in Australia. Sunlight is the most common cause but it is also possible that human papilloma viruses may play a role. If high risk types of this virus can be identified, new preventive strategies may be developed.