Functional Suicide Of Selected Dendritic Cells By Cytochrome C: An In Vivo Model Lacking Cross-presentation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$597,476.00
Summary
Certain white blood cells (dendritic cells) activate the immune system, especially its T cells. Infection of such cells elicits killer T cell responses. However not all infections infect dendritic cells. In such cases, the infectious material is eaten by dendritic cells and moved to certain areas within the cell. This process is called cross-presentation and how important it is during various diseases remains moot. We now have a model of testing this by eliminating these cross-presenting cells.
Restoration Of The Nigrostriatal Pathway In The Parkinsonian Brain
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$299,431.00
Summary
Many obstacles exist for cell transplantation in Parkinson's disease; namely poor restoration of the host brain circuitry due to incorrect graft placement. This results in incomplete motor function and unwanted side effects. Through iterative studies we endeavor to restore this circuitry by placing grafts in the appropriate location and promoting their survival and growth-integrations. This will require: optimizing the donor tissue and exposure of the graft to growth stimulating factors.
Which Transgenic Pig Will Be Used For Islet Transplantation In Humans?
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$3,031,083.00
Summary
We propose that xenotransplantation of pig islets will cure Type 1 diabetes. This program will generate genetically modified pigs to overcome the molecular differences between pigs and humans by removing a pig gene and inserting several human genes. In addition, we will add immunosuppressive genes and so minimise the need for drug treatment of the diabetic recipient. We will test our hypothesis by transplanting islets from these genetically modified pigs into baboons. We suggest that this will p ....We propose that xenotransplantation of pig islets will cure Type 1 diabetes. This program will generate genetically modified pigs to overcome the molecular differences between pigs and humans by removing a pig gene and inserting several human genes. In addition, we will add immunosuppressive genes and so minimise the need for drug treatment of the diabetic recipient. We will test our hypothesis by transplanting islets from these genetically modified pigs into baboons. We suggest that this will provide an inexhaustible supply of islets for transplantation.Read moreRead less
At least 6 young Australians are diagnosed each day with type 1 diabetes. This Program aims to change the way type 1 diabetes is managed by proactively treating its underlying mechanisms. We will develop safer and more effective immune therapies, develop islet transplantation, look for better markers of disease, and identify ways to preserve insulin-producing cells. The Program aims to propel type 1 diabetes research forward to reach the goals of prevention and cure.
Using Stem Cells And Bioengineered Scaffolds To Promote Regeneration Following Necrotic Brain Injury
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$710,857.00
Summary
A number of injuries, including stroke, result in tissue loss. Consequently promoting repair will require restoration of tissue structure, replacement cells and a supportive environment to promote integration of these new cells. This study will engineer and develop novel scaffolds that can replace tissue whilst additionally providing physical and chemical support for newly implanted stem cells. This work will be conducted in an animal model of stroke.
Testing The Prion Hypothesis In Parkinson’s Disease Using A Novel In Vivo Model Of Α-synuclein Transmission
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$622,555.00
Summary
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a debilitating neurological disease with no cure. Recently it has been discovered that the disease can spread through the brain. We have developed the worlds first animal model to study exactly how the disease propagates inside of neurons during this spread. We will use the model to answer key questions about this critical stage of disease spread, knowledge that is essential for the development of successful therapies to prevent disease progression.
The Role Of Oligodendrocytes In Frontotemporal Dementia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$625,292.00
Summary
Dementia affects 35.6 million people world-wide; this number is projected to double every 20 years. Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is the second most common type and has been found to have similar cause and pathology to common neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We ultimately require treatments to slow, stop and repair the damaged brain of FTD patients and this is only possible by understanding the mechanisms involved in the onset and progression of disease.
Standardising Protocols For The Differentiation And Integration Of Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-derived Neural Transplants In Parkinson's Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$987,664.00
Summary
Clinical trials have shown that transplanting dopamine neurons (specific nerve cells) into the brain of Parkinson’s disease patients can improve symptoms. Trials use fetal tissue for implantation, which is unsustainable and highly variable. This proposal will examine stem cells as an alternative. We will establish a reliable protocol to instruct human stem cells to become dopamine neurons, develop methods to select these cells and, examine the integration of these transplanted cells in the brain