Targeting Collagen Cross-linking To Improve Scar Appearance
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$873,305.00
Summary
Scarring is a significant problem after injury, and the life-long appearance of scar can be very detrimental to peoples’ wellbeing, both psychological and physical. This work will develop a new drug to improve scar appearance. The drug is likely to be effective even after scar has formed, making it possible to improve scarring in many people. This will improve the quality of life for people after injury.
The Role Of The Actin Remodelling Protein, Flightless I, In Tissue Regeneration
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$568,868.00
Summary
Human embryos possess the remarkable capability to repair wounds perfectly with no scarring, unlike adults for whom major trauma can result in life-long disfigurement and immobility. We have identified a method that may be able to reinitiate the ability to repair wounds perfectly and we will test whether this is the case using animal models of fetal repair.
Development Of Monoclonal Antibody Therapy For Treating Wounds
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$573,354.00
Summary
Chronic wounds, diabetic ulcers, injuries in response to trauma, burns and scalds form a medical need which will only expand as the population ages and the diabetic epidemic grows. In our studies, we have shown that Flightless I (Flii), an actin-remodelling protein, is a negative regulator of wound healing. We are developing monoclonal antibodies as a new therapy for reducing Flii levels in wounds which leads to improved wound repair outcomes.
Function Of Flightless I In The Skin Blistering Disorder Epidermolysis Bullosa
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$578,796.00
Summary
Skin blistering disorders are painful and debilitating. They can lead to permanent scarring and may be life threatening within two years of birth. No specific cure exists. Our previous studies have identified the important role of Flii in wound healing. We now aim to investigate the potential function of Flii in skin blistering disorders. We will also determine whether modulating Flii reduces blister formation. This research could lead to new therapies for treating people with fragile skin.
Wounds and burn injuries are frequent injuries which can lead to deformity, disfigurement and loss of movement. The cytoskeleton is integral to the wound healing process and we have shown that a specific cytoskeletal protein, Flightless I (Flii), is an important regulator of wound repair. During the course of this fellowship I plan to further my investigations into the function and regulation of Flii in wounds and aim to develop new therapies for treating wounds and reducing scar formation.