I am a molecular and cell biologist with a major research focus on haemopoiesis and leukaemia development. This work principally involves the analysis of mutant mouse models.
I am a structural biologist investigating the molecular control of cell death. Atomic resolution structural data are used to guide the discovery of new drugs.
Molecular Characterisation Of The DBHS Proteins In Telomerase Assembly
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$686,246.00
Summary
Telomerase is an enzyme that is active in over 90% of cancers. Telomerase activity allows cancer cells to divide an indefinite number of times. We have identified a novel role for the DBHS protein family in regulating telomerase activity. We aim to investigate the mechanisms by which these proteins function to assemble and transport telomerase to its site of action in the cell. We then aim to develop chemical inhibitors of these proteins, and test their utility in preventing cancer cell growth.
Characterization Of SgK269, A Master Regulator Of Growth Factor Receptor Signalling
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$623,751.00
Summary
Perturbed signaling within a cell can cause multiple diseases, including cancer. SgK269 is a scaffold protein involved in signaling and implicated in breast, colon and pancreatic cancer. By determining the signaling mechanism and function of the SgK269 scaffold, this work will provide novel and important insights into a key regulator of cell signaling, and reveal potential strategies for therapeutic targeting of the SgK269 scaffold that could be utilized in cancer treatment.
Understanding Age-related Protein Aggregation. The Mechanism Of Cataract And Its Prevention
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$709,333.00
Summary
Cataract arises from clouding of the eye lens due to the aggregation of crystallin proteins whose high concentration and close packing facilitate lens transparency. This proposal will investigate crystallin structure and interactions to understand the reasons for cataract formation and its prevention via the design of aggregation inhibitors. The results will facilitate the development of drugs to prevent cataract and other related protein aggregation diseases, e.g. Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.