The spread of cancer to other organs is responsible for 90% of cancer deaths. This proposal seeks to determine how urological tumours (prostate and bladder) spread around the body. Cancer cell and animal models are an integral component of the research, and together with data obtained in human cancer specimens provide a comprehensive, powerful approach to identify key pathways involved in tumour spread. This is critical for the design of new therapies to treat and-or prevent tumour spread.
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.
Control Of Musculoskeletal Function And Glucose Metabolism By Androgens In Men
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$245,031.00
Summary
Male sex hormone or androgen deficiency (AD) is a common, but under-diagnosed condition. AD decreases general well being and contributes to muscle weakness, bone fragility and weight gain. By using cutting edge imaging and molecular technologies, we will help to explain the underlying mechanisms of how AD leads to these negative effects. This should ultimately lead to reduction of adverse outcomes of AD, which include fractures and cardiovascular events.
Population Health Modelling, With Applicationsto Asbestos-related Diseases, Cervical Cancer And Prostate Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$380,558.00
Summary
Population health modelling can be used to understand complex systems, through bringing together diverse data sources to answer questions of public health importance. We will apply modelling techniques to three public health areas, including: the effects of HPV testing on cervical cancer screening; the impact of the rapid uptake of PSA screening on prostate cancer incidence and mortality; and projections of the incidence of asbestos-related diseases.
Randomised Controlled Trial Of Early Intervention To Improve Sexual And Couple Functioning After Prostate Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$405,000.00
Summary
Treatment for localised prostate cancer has a long term negative impact on the sexuality, quality of life, and relationship quality of Australian men and their intimate partners. This study will trial a remote access couples based sexuality intervention for this patient and carer group that has potential for broader translation into community and acute health care settings. This approach will also have broader application for chronic disease self management for other health conditions.
Exploring The Role Of MiRSNPs In Diagnosis And Prognosis Of Prostate Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$428,065.00
Summary
Genetic variants, when used alongside PSA and family history, could be a better early biomarker to identify men predisposable to develop prostate cancer or/and to distinguish slowly progressive from aggressive disease. We will undertake a comprehensive study on a special class of genetic variants "miRSNPs" in the non-coding region of the prostate cancer related genes and will also identify their mechanism of action, and their potential as a biomarker for prostate cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
Bridging The Fields Of Cartilage, Bone Marrow And Cancer Research
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$470,144.00
Summary
This Fellowship will bring together technologies and expertise in cartilage tissue engineering, in vitro haematopoietic stem cell (HSC) self-renewal, HSC transplantation, and in platform development for the study of prostate cancer bone metastasis. By exploiting the intersection of multiple diseases and tissue platforms, we hope to be able to contribute significantly to improved cartilage repair, bone marrow/cord blood stem cell transplants, and the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer.