This research will push the boundaries of current knowledge in receptor pharmacology and translate this knowledge into clinical outcomes. Receptors are proteins on the surface of our cells that bind hormones, neurotransmitters and pharmaceuticals. By better understanding the complexities of how these receptors work at the molecular level, the objective is to develop improved treatments and better clinical management for a range of medical conditions.
The Structure And Composition Of The T-Cell Receptor-CD3 Complex
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$419,180.00
Summary
My research will use cutting edge imaging techniques to provide a fundamental advance in our understanding of how foreign viruses and pathogens trigger the immune system. Gaining a greater understanding of these central events will facilitate the design of novel therapies to treat immune associated disorders such as transplant rejection, autoimmune disease and some cancers.
Alteration Of Glucose Metabolism By GPCR Activation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$444,796.00
Summary
In type 2 diabetes the effect of insulin to stimulate glucose transport in fat cells and skeletal muscle is impaired so there is great interest in identifying insulin-independent mechanisms that increase glucose transport. Several G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate glucose transport independently of insulin but the mechanisms involved in these effects are largely unknown. This project investigates how GPCRs regulate glucose homeostasis and will evaluate them as potential treatments.
Novel Approaches To The Targeting Of GPCRs Towards Improved Treatment Of Schizophrenia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$415,218.00
Summary
The focus of these studies are two important types of brain proteins that have been implicated in various symptoms associated with schizophrenia. The aim is to exploit two emerging paradigms of drug action at these brain proteins that will allow us to target them in a more selective manner. In particular, these studies will provide a starting point for safer, more effective treatments for schizophrenia.
Understanding Allosteric Modulation And Biased Signalling At Family B GPCRs
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$428,065.00
Summary
Family B GPCRs are therapeutic targets for drugs treating osteoporosis, hypercalcaemia, Paget’s disease, type II diabetes and are being actively pursued for other diseases that represent major global health burdens. Despite huge financial input, there are no orally available drugs that act on these receptors. This speaks to a lack of mechanistic understanding of how they work. My research focuses on addressing this question and how to exploit these receptors to design and identify better drugs.
Improving Pain And Movement Outcomes In Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$431,000.00
Summary
People fear getting painful knee osteoarthritis (OA) more than any other disease – it is seen as progressive and incurable. It often stops people from moving and staying healthy, resulting in an enormous burden on sufferers and the health care system. This program of research aims to understand what brain & nervous system processes might underlie these pain and movement problems and whether new brain-targeting treatment helps. This will allow us to better match treatment to what patients need.