Understanding The Pathophysiology Of Schizophrenia, Major Depressive Disorder And Bipolar Disorder As A Basis For Improving Treatments
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$804,106.00
Summary
The Applicant seeks to understand the causes of the schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, which affect over 20% of the Australian population. This research is important as drug design, based on chemical remodelling, has not significantly advanced initial breakthroughs in treating psychiatric disorders and there is now a widespread belief that new drugs will only come from understand their causes.
Peripheral Membrane Proteins In Health And Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$640,210.00
Summary
Peripheral membrane proteins are critical for processes such as cell transport, signaling, neurosecretion and development. As such, their dysfunction can lead to many debilitating diseases including cancer, inflammation and neurodegeneration. This project will establish fundamental new knowledge about how peripheral membrane proteins regulate cell function, how their perturbation or mutation results in human disease, and will inform efforts to target them for future therapeutic outcomes.
Detailed images of protein molecules underpin our understanding of biological function and our attempts to find new medicines to counter biological malfunction. Proteins belonging to the so-called Bcl-2 family determine whether a cell lives or dies and, because failure to die on cue is a hallmark of many cancers, high resolution images of these molecules will reveal new targets for cancer therapies.
An inability to resist a temptation or repeated failures of self-regulation can lead to 'impulsive' and 'compulsive' behaviours that relate to a host of personal and social problems (eg., excessive eating, gambling, and substance use). Despite this, very little research has studied the neural and psychological underpinnings of these behaviours. My research will take advantage of recent innovations and approaches to fill this void and have implications for diagnosis and treatment.
Early Childhood Mental Health: Pathways, Treatment, Access, And Community Literacy.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$849,540.00
Summary
Many causes, warning signs, and opportunities for intervention for mental health problems are evident in early childhood. This project will conduct research and innovative practice that will transform our understanding of mental health problems in early childhood, including improved understanding of the environmental/biological mechanisms, methods to best target and disseminate effective early intervention, and improve community literacy and reduce stigma for these children and their parents.
Novel Therapies, Risk Pathways And Prevention Of Mood Disorders
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$863,413.00
Summary
Concordant with the NHMRC priorities, this fellowship will principally focus on the development of novel therapies for mood disorders. We have pilot data that the amino acid, N acetyl cysteine reduces symptoms in unipolar and bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. We will further delineate the spectrum of efficacy, mechanisms of action and tolerability profile of this and related agents. We also will study risk factors and pathways for the development of depression, to develop public health strateg ....Concordant with the NHMRC priorities, this fellowship will principally focus on the development of novel therapies for mood disorders. We have pilot data that the amino acid, N acetyl cysteine reduces symptoms in unipolar and bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. We will further delineate the spectrum of efficacy, mechanisms of action and tolerability profile of this and related agents. We also will study risk factors and pathways for the development of depression, to develop public health strategies.Read moreRead less
I am a neurochemist-clinical research scientist investigating the interaction between, in particular, brain monoaminergic activity, autonomic function and physiological responses. My studies are largely focussed on determining the aetiology and consequenc
Mental Health And Substance Use: Understanding, Preventing And Treating
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$268,065.00
Summary
Mental & substance use disorders account for more years of disability than any other disorder. In young adults the top 10 causes of burden of disease are dominated by mental and substance use disorders. I lead an international program of research in the combined areas of mental health & substance abuse, and am recognised as a leading international expert. My research aims to increase our understanding of drug & alcohol and mental disorders, prevent where possible and improve treatment responses.