This research program aims to gain a detailed understanding of the organisation of the cell surface at the molecular level. The cell surface is organised into domains with distinct functions. Visualisation of these domains, identifying their important components, and understanding how they form and function will have huge importance for therapeutic strategies aimed at combatting the changes associated with cell transformation in cancer and in other human diseases such as muscular dystrophy.
Translating Membrane Proteins Into Therapeutics; From Bedside To Bench
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$9,466,000.00
Summary
Membrane proteins are the principal gatekeepers for control of cellular response, with G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) the largest family of cell surface proteins. These proteins are critically important for pathophysiological control, and are a major target for drug discovery. Nonetheless drug attrition due to lack of clinical efficacy remains high. We are combining cell biology, clinical management and drug discovery science to enable more effective therapeutic translation.
This proposal is for a team of researchers and clinicians to explore the molecular control of the lymphatic vasculature. This network of lymphatic vessels, located in organs throughout the body, is critical for regulation of tissue fluid and immune function. It will identify new molecular pathways controlling lymphatic vessels and their interactions with other cells in the body and identify new diagnostic approaches and molecular targets for medicines to treat human diseases including cancer.
Molecular Regulation Of Blood Cell Production And Function
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$18,330,902.00
Summary
This Program comprises an established team of investigators that have made world-class contributions to the understanding of blood cell formation and function. Research will combine novel multidisciplinary genetic/genomics approaches, expert biochemistry, cell and molecular biological techniques with translational studies in humans to provide new insights into blood cell control and novel avenues for therapies in blood cell diseases such as leukaemia and autoimmune and inflammatory disorders.
Improved Outcomes For Children With Cancer Through Improved Target Identification And Drug Discovery: Neuroblastoma As A Model
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$6,394,247.00
Summary
The majority of children with neuroblastoma still die of their disease, and survivors have serious side-effects of cancer treatment. We aim to discover better therapies for children with this cancer, conducting clinical trials using existing and new drugs in novel combinations. We will also investigate novel ways of targeting neuroblastoma cells, and study possible prevention strategies for this and other embryonal cancers. This work will have application in other childhood and adult cancers.