Role of micro-RNAs in learning and memory of insects. This project will investigate how small molecules in the brain, so-called micro RNAs, regulate processes underlying learning and memory formation. The outcomes will provide new knowledge on the specific function of these molecules in the brain, and help us understand their role in cognitive disorders such as autism and schizophrenia.
The role of gene isoforms in human brain development. This project aims to investigate how genes vary their products to control human brain development, by creating new methods to study gene activity in individual brain cells. Using these innovative methods, this project expects to generate fundamental new knowledge of how the human brain forms. Expected outcomes of this project include widely applicable techniques, strengthened international (UK) research collaborations and highly trained perso ....The role of gene isoforms in human brain development. This project aims to investigate how genes vary their products to control human brain development, by creating new methods to study gene activity in individual brain cells. Using these innovative methods, this project expects to generate fundamental new knowledge of how the human brain forms. Expected outcomes of this project include widely applicable techniques, strengthened international (UK) research collaborations and highly trained personnel in genomics and neuroscience. This should deliver many benefits, including a better understanding of how the brain forms, training of higher degree by research students, as well as tools and methods of benefit to the academic research and biotechnology sectors.Read moreRead less
Discovery Early Career Researcher Award - Grant ID: DE140101033
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$315,220.00
Summary
Genomic Diversity in the Human Brain: the Functional Role of Expandable DNA Repeats. Neuronal cells accumulate genetic changes during development and adult life, and recent evidence suggests that the resulting genomic diversity may underlie neuronal functional diversity. To date only a few types of somatic genetic variation have been characterised in the human brain. Trinucleotide repeats (TNR) are hotspots of genomic instability and TNR expansions at specific loci cause dozens of brain disorder ....Genomic Diversity in the Human Brain: the Functional Role of Expandable DNA Repeats. Neuronal cells accumulate genetic changes during development and adult life, and recent evidence suggests that the resulting genomic diversity may underlie neuronal functional diversity. To date only a few types of somatic genetic variation have been characterised in the human brain. Trinucleotide repeats (TNR) are hotspots of genomic instability and TNR expansions at specific loci cause dozens of brain disorders, suggesting that the human brain is particularly vulnerable to this type of genetic variation. This project aims to investigate, for the first time, TNR somatic instability in the human brain on a genome-wide scale, therefore, addressing the genetic diversity of the brain from a novel and highly relevant angle. Read moreRead less
Investigating insect neuronal plasticity under genetic and chemical stress. This project aims to study receptors that translate chemical signals into electrical signals in animal brains. These receptors are targeted by insecticides used to control the major pests that afflict agriculture and domestic pets. The project aims to establish the functions of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in several behaviours and in insecticide responsiveness in the model insect, Drosophila melanogaster, using mut ....Investigating insect neuronal plasticity under genetic and chemical stress. This project aims to study receptors that translate chemical signals into electrical signals in animal brains. These receptors are targeted by insecticides used to control the major pests that afflict agriculture and domestic pets. The project aims to establish the functions of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in several behaviours and in insecticide responsiveness in the model insect, Drosophila melanogaster, using mutations that knock out the function of receptor subunits. Prior research has pointed to plasticity in the expression and transport of these receptors in response to genetic and environmental change. This project aims to identify the underlying mechanisms that provide the insect with resilience, to provide better options for pest control.Read moreRead less
Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE110100068
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$240,000.00
Summary
Mass spectrometry platform for high throughput genotyping, epigenetic analysis and validation of genome wide sequencing studies. This facility will provide a platform for Australian researchers to quantitatively measure genetic information in a rapid, accurate and cost-efficient manner. This technology will enhance Australia's ability to perform basic research into the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of cellular function.
Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE140100116
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$400,000.00
Summary
Western Australian Zebrafish Facility. Zebrafish facility: The zebrafish as a model vertebrate organism is fast approaching the importance of the laboratory mouse. This facility will enable the research community to fully embrace the zebrafish as a powerful research tool.