Cellular Regulation Of Tooth Matrix Deposition And Remineralisation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$124,530.00
Summary
Caries is one of the most prevalent of all human diseases. It has a very significant impact on the health budget of a nation apart from its effect on the individual concerned. In recent years there has been a growing recognition that healing or re-mineralisation protocols for the treatment of carious lesions in dentine are possible, rather than just relying on surgical removal of the diseased tissue and placement of restoratives. This project proposes to investigate a strategy for deliberately s ....Caries is one of the most prevalent of all human diseases. It has a very significant impact on the health budget of a nation apart from its effect on the individual concerned. In recent years there has been a growing recognition that healing or re-mineralisation protocols for the treatment of carious lesions in dentine are possible, rather than just relying on surgical removal of the diseased tissue and placement of restoratives. This project proposes to investigate a strategy for deliberately stimulating cellular reparative processes for the treatment of this disease. It is expected that the outcomes from this research will have a major influence on the techniques and materials used to treat this disease. They will potentially have a very broad application from the paediatric to the geriatric sectors of the dental profession.Read moreRead less
Ultraviolet-induced Effector Molecules In Ocular Surface Diseases: Regulation Of Expression In Vitro And In Vivo
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$293,500.00
Summary
Pterygium is a common, recurrent, inflammatory, and sight-threatening complication of the human eye. The disease is characterised by a fleshy vascular growth that gradually covers the ocular surface if left untreated. Limbal dysplasia is a less common disease but in some regards this disease behaves much like a pterygium. We have generated considerable laboratory based data that these ocular surface disorders may be triggered by ultraviolet (UV) radiation and this fits well with the extensive ep ....Pterygium is a common, recurrent, inflammatory, and sight-threatening complication of the human eye. The disease is characterised by a fleshy vascular growth that gradually covers the ocular surface if left untreated. Limbal dysplasia is a less common disease but in some regards this disease behaves much like a pterygium. We have generated considerable laboratory based data that these ocular surface disorders may be triggered by ultraviolet (UV) radiation and this fits well with the extensive epidemiological evidence. To data the only form of treatment is surgical intervention, often with adjunctive topical agents that can cause other more severe complication of the eye. The aim of this investigation is to determine the effectiveness of agents such as retinoic acid and interferons to block or inhibit the down-stream effects of UV radiation. Currently, we have preliminary data that suggests these agents can significantly reduce several molecules that are activated by UV in cultured ocular surface cells. Furthermore, we have clinical evidence that retinoic acid and interferon can resolve both pterygia and conjunctival dysplasia in a small group of patients. If successful, these agents may replace costly and time-consuming surgical approach to treatment.Read moreRead less
The socioeconomic determinants and dynamics of mental health and disorders in Australia and the United Kingdom: evidence from childhood to the elderly years. Poor mental health and specific mental disorders are prevalent in Australia, and have severe consequences for the social and economic functioning of individuals, families and communities. This project will shed new light on the long-term socio-economic determinants and dynamics of mental health, using data that tracks individuals over time.
A Comprehensive Analysis Of Myb Target Genes Involved In Myelopoiesis And Myeloid Transformation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$511,294.00
Summary
The MYB gene is essential for both normal blood cell formation and the growth of leukaemia cells. It acts by switching other genes (target genes) on and off. This project aims to advance our understanding of how MYB functions, by carrying out a comprehensive search for MYB target genes. In particular it will focus on target genes that help explain MYB's ability to control cellular growth and maturation. Some of these target genes may provide leads for future anti-cancer drug development.
Development And Validation Of A Finite Element Model For Orthopaedic Screw Insertion Into Trabecular Bone
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$420,454.00
Summary
Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones that results in reduced bone strength and susceptibility to fragility fractures. Due to the spongy nature of osteoporotic bone, surgeons face major difficulties in obtaining secure fixation of bone screws. Our aim is to develop and validate a computer model of orthopaedic screw insertion into trabecular bone based on micro-computed tomography image data. This will allow an assessment of the most appropriate screw designs for stable fixation of implants.