Disrupted Neurosteroid Synthesis Mediates The Adverse Effects Of Prenatal Stress
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$695,973.00
Summary
Maternal anxiety and related stress in pregnancy influences the fetus causing developmental changes that adversely affect the offspring leading to behavioural problems in childhood. However, mechanisms which transfer maternal changes to the fetus are unclear. We propose that disruption of the fetal-placental neurosteroid system is a major link. We will identify the deficits in this system caused by maternal stress and then examine therapies to reverse these disruptions.
Investigating The Interaction Between BDNF And Sex Steroid Hormones During Adolescent Development: Relevance To Schizophrenia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$449,048.00
Summary
Schizophrenia first appears clinically during late adolescence. Sex hormones as well as growth factors such as Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are involved in shaping the adolescent brain to its adult form. Alterations to these systems may contribute to structural changes seen in schizophrenia. This project will investigate the interaction of BDNF and sex hormones in the development of the adolescent mouse brain, and behavioural responses with relevance to schizophrenia.
The Clinical Significance Of Sex Hormone Crosstalk In Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,009,006.00
Summary
Breast cancer is mainly a disease in which the sex hormone estrogen stimulates uncontrolled growth. We have recently discovered that other sex hormones, including progesterone and androgen, can redirect the actions of estrogen in breast cancers to halt growth or make a tumour disappear. This study will examine the complex interaction between all three sex hormones to develop new, more effective strategies for treating breast cancer.
Menstrual Fluid Factors In The Control Of Progestin Mediated Endometrial Bleeding
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$379,845.00
Summary
Uterine bleeding associated with progestin-only contraceptives is the main reason for discontinuation of these highly effective items. For bleeding to occur the endometrial blood vessels and overlying epithelium must undergo simultaneous breakdown. We do not know the mechanism behind breakdown under progestin exposure. We propose novel directions to understand the molecular cues underlying epithelial fragility/breakdown and novel treatments to stop bleeding thus enhancing contraceptive complianc ....Uterine bleeding associated with progestin-only contraceptives is the main reason for discontinuation of these highly effective items. For bleeding to occur the endometrial blood vessels and overlying epithelium must undergo simultaneous breakdown. We do not know the mechanism behind breakdown under progestin exposure. We propose novel directions to understand the molecular cues underlying epithelial fragility/breakdown and novel treatments to stop bleeding thus enhancing contraceptive compliance.Read moreRead less