Targeting A Novel Anti-platelet Mechanism For Improved Anti-thrombotic Therapy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$985,938.00
Summary
Blood clots cause heart attacks and most strokes, which are the most common cause of death in the world. Platelets are the cells in the blood that form these clots, and drugs that prevent platelet function are the major approach for heart attack and stroke prevention. However, many patients are resistant to the effects of existing therapies. These studies will develop a unique approach to prevent platelet function that may help overcome the limitations of current drugs.
Redefining The Pro-thrombotic Mechanism Of Von Willebrand Factor
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$750,005.00
Summary
Blood clotting is the underlying cause of heart attacks and strokes. The blood protein, von Willebrand factor, is a critical player in blood clotting and impairment of its function is life threatening. We have discovered that there are three forms of VWF in human blood that have different functions in blood clotting. Characterisation of these different forms will likely lead to new blood clotting diagnostics and improved therapies.