Transplantation of pancreatic islets is the only cure for type 1 diabetes (T1D). Unfortunately, many of the transplanted islet cells die quickly due to an inadequate supply of blood. Herein, we investigate a novel cell surface protein for its role in islet and blood vessel survival and function. Furthermore, we use nanotechnology to provide said protein to the islet cells during transplantation for increased survival and function. Ultimately, this work may cure more patients with diabetes.
Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE120100170
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$580,000.00
Summary
Bioaffinity mass spectrometry infrastructure to identify small molecules binding to therapeutic targets. The development of anti-infective therapies is challenging because the underlying biology and biochemistry of pathogen virulence is not yet completely understood. This mass spectrometer facility will be used to identify small molecules suited for development into new therapies for malaria, tuberculosis and HIV.
Modulating Immune Responses By Targeting Dendritic Cells Using Dendritic Cell Specific Markers.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$197,750.00
Summary
The ability to modulate immune responses would have major health benefits. Dendritic cells (DC) are key regulators of the immune system. Different types of DC possess different cell surface molecules and have differing regulatory functions. We have identified four novel DC surface molecules that can be used to target different types of DC. We aim to use antibodies against these molecules to either enhance the effectiveness of vaccines or to suppress autoimmune diseases.
Understanding allosteric modulation and functional selectivity at G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs). GPCRs are an important superfamily of proteins that are involved in a myriad of physiological processes and a wide range of serious illnesses. This project seeks to gain a more detailed understanding of new mechanisms of GPCR modulation and function that will be of direct relevance to drug discovery.
New methodology for the manufacture of opioid pharmaceuticals and the discovery of novel opiate receptor ligands. Semi-synthetic opiates are important analgesic agents and are used in the treatment of alcohol and opiate dependence. This project will focus on the application of new, greener and more efficient methods for the preparation of these medicinal agents.
Subtype selectivity and functional bias of receptor positive allosteric modulators for understanding models of pulmonary disease. G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are an important superfamily of proteins that are involved in a myriad of physiological processes and a wide range of serious illnesses. This project seeks to gain a more detailed understanding of new mechanisms of GPCR modulation and function that will be of direct relevance to drug discovery.
Discovery Early Career Researcher Award - Grant ID: DE180100418
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$365,058.00
Summary
Novel chemical tools to study cathepsin X activation. This project aims to develop new chemical tools that can measure the specific activation of cathepsin X in cells, tissues, and live animals, as well as specific inhibitors for cathepsin X. The cysteine protease cathepsin X mediates basic biological functions that are essential for life, including cell communication, phagocytosis, immune maturation and neuritogenesis. The outcomes should benefit the wider research community. They could have lo ....Novel chemical tools to study cathepsin X activation. This project aims to develop new chemical tools that can measure the specific activation of cathepsin X in cells, tissues, and live animals, as well as specific inhibitors for cathepsin X. The cysteine protease cathepsin X mediates basic biological functions that are essential for life, including cell communication, phagocytosis, immune maturation and neuritogenesis. The outcomes should benefit the wider research community. They could have long-term implications for health and disease, and deliver economic benefits through commercialisation of the novel tools.Read moreRead less
Dissecting catalysis and inhibition of a unique endo-acting mannose-processing glycosidase. Defects in the attachment of carbohydrates to proteins are a hallmark of diseases such as cancer and viral infection. This project will dissect the molecular details of the bond-making and breaking steps that occur during the synthesis of glycoproteins assisting in the development of innovative new drugs.