Lipid Trafficking At Membrane Contact Sites: The Role Of Oxysterol-Binding Protein-Related Protein 5 And 8 (ORP5 And ORP8)
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$466,400.00
Summary
Abnormal subcellular lipid distribution is associated with a number of common diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. The overall aim of this proposal is to identify and characterize new molecules that regulate the transport of lipids between different cell membranes. Results from the proposed studies will help developing novel therapeutic agents against common human diseases.
The cell is the building block of life. This proposal focusses on the surface of the cell, the plasma membrane, and specialised structures called caveolae that are an abundant feature of animal cells. Altered caveolae are a feature of many human disease conditions. In this proposal we will address the function of caveolae. We will test the idea that proteins are released from caveolae into the cell when cells are stressed forming a novel signalling pathway disrupted in disease.
Function And Molecular Mechanism Of Histidine-rich Glycoprotein In Necrotic Cell And Pathogen Clearance
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$525,957.00
Summary
This research proposal is to investigate the molecular mechanism and function of a blood serum protein, histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG), in protecting against tissue injury caused by inflammation and infection. HRG has been implicated in controlling important aspects of tissue injury by aiding removal of dead cells and pathogens. Understanding the role of HRG in these disease settings may allow the development of approaches for the treatment of inflammatory, autoimmune and infectious disease.
Regulation Of The Signalling Efficiency Of The T Cell Antigen Receptor
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$456,557.00
Summary
An immune response starts with activation of the T cell antigen receptor (TCR). How T cell receptor signalling begins, however, is not well understood. We have developed a novel imaging approach that allows us to directly observe what happens after an antigen binds to the receptor. The research will provide mechanistic insights into how T cells sense and discriminate antigens. This knowledge will aid the development of cancer immunotherapies and vaccines.
Delineating The Mechanism Of Amyloid Beta Toxicity
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$565,242.00
Summary
Alzheimer’s disease and beta amyloid toxicity: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia and is characterized by progressive memory loss, confusion, and cognitive deficits. In 2011, an estimated 269,000 Australians are currently living with dementia and without a significant medical breakthrough soon, it is anticipated that this will rise to about 981,000 by 2050