Investigating Polarity Proteins In Thymocytes- A Potential Role In Asymmetric Cell Division?
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$69,684.00
Summary
To protect us against infection, surveying immune cells will launch an attack against foreign cells by using complex signalling process to communicate with each other. A novel method in which immune cells differentiate to defend the body against infection has been recently discovered this year and this project will involve dissecting how this occurs. It will involve using state-of-the-art laser-based technologies, combined with studying immune events in cells and intact organs.
To Describe The Regional Differences In The Innate Immune System Of The Skin Using Intra-vital Multiphoton Microscopy And Understand Its Functional Consequences In A Cutaneous Parasite Infection Model.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$97,182.00
Summary
This study is the first of its kind to map the innate immune system, the body's first line of defence, in the skin - coined the "immune atlas". Researchers have shown regional differences in innate immune cells which could explain how infections develop at different sites of the body. Although they have shown this in a cutaneous leishmaniasis model, a parasite endemic in most parts of the world, it may have implications also for inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
Evaluation Of Circulating Endothelial Cells In Prostate Cancer Detection, Prognosis And Treatment Response
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$32,628.00
Summary
A current shortfall in clinical medicine is tests which discriminate different forms and severity of cancers. The project will aim to identify useful strategies based on blood factors of angiogenesis, a fundamental process in tumour growth and dissemination. Development of such tests may permit better delineation of prognosis, act as a surrogate marker of treatment efficacy and aid in developing and optimizing new treatments, key areas of need in prostate cancer.