Blood clotting is the underlying cause of heart attacks and strokes. We have discovered that the protein, ERp5, is essential for normal blood clotting. Our preliminary findings indicate that ERp5 controls the function of blood platelets in clotting. Our overall aim is to elucidate how ERp5 regulates platelet function. It is crucial that we understand how ERp5 functions in blood clotting if we are to effectively target it in disease.
Thioredoxin Interacting Protein: A Novel Regulator Of Angiogenesis And Impaired Neovascularisation In Diabetes Mellitus
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$292,639.00
Summary
Heart disease is the leading cause of death and treatment options such as bypass surgery are unsuitable for many sufferers, particularly those with diabetes. This project investigates the regulation of new blood vessel growth through the action of antioxidants and also examines the contribution of adult stem cells to this process. Regulating new blood vessel growth provides a novel means to overcome current problems in the management of both non-diabetic and diabetic patients with heart disease.
PYROXD1 - A Novel Myopathy Disease Gene Identifies A Redox Pathway Essential For Life
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,247,992.00
Summary
An Australian family with a rare myopathy has led to the discovery of a new gene called PYROXD1; a gene that all cells need to survive. PYROXD1 plays a critical role in protecting cells from oxidative stress. We are using patient samples and mouse models to find out what PYROXD1 does that is vital for cell and animal life. We will test whether redox therapies developed for neurodegenerative disorders might help patients with rare neuromuscular disorders, for whom there are no treatment options.
The Physiological Role Of Glutathione-S-Transferase In The Intracellular Storage And Transport Of Nitric Oxide And Its Biomedical Effects
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$544,839.00
Summary
The aim of this project is to elucidate the mechanisms behind the intracellular regulation of nitrogen monoxide (NO) levels, which has broad implications for understanding NO activity in many processes which have major vital health implications, including the cytotoxic of macrophages and the control of blood pressure.
Understanding The Contribution Of Iron In Traumatic Brain Injury
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$601,263.00
Summary
Our group has discovered a novel role of amyloid precursor protein (APP) in cellular iron balance similar to another protein called ceruloplasmin (CP). Both, prevalently found in the brain, convert a damaging iron variety into the safer form. Disruption in either protein leads to cell death. We aim to establish how failure in APP and CP response may be detrimental to traumatic brain injury recovery. Understanding the iron role of APP and CP will lead to therapeutics to counter traumatic injury.