Thalamic inputs and cortical microcircuitry underlying the functional architecture of the visual cortex. This project seeks to reveal the fundamental circuitry of the visual cortex that enables visual perception. Such understanding is essential not only for explaining many perceptual disturbances, but also for providing a neuronal basis for developing functionally useful prostheses for the blind.
The role of immune cells in controlling blood flow. The project aims to increase our understanding of how neurons in the central nervous system alter blood flow to meet their metabolic needs. Tight control of the retinal vasculature is crucial for maintaining normal vision. Unlike most blood vessels in the body, those in the retina and brain receive no direct neural control. Rather, they rely on support cells to communicate the needs of neurons. This project aims to examine whether resident immu ....The role of immune cells in controlling blood flow. The project aims to increase our understanding of how neurons in the central nervous system alter blood flow to meet their metabolic needs. Tight control of the retinal vasculature is crucial for maintaining normal vision. Unlike most blood vessels in the body, those in the retina and brain receive no direct neural control. Rather, they rely on support cells to communicate the needs of neurons. This project aims to examine whether resident immune cells called microglia regulate blood vessels in response to neural activity. This knowledge would improve our understanding of how blood vessels are controlled in the retina and brain. The results may guide the development of novel ways of examining blood vessel function.Read moreRead less
Translating Genetic Determinants Of Glaucoma Into Better Diagnosis And Treatment
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$9,466,000.00
Summary
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. By 2020, it will affect 80 million people, and in Australia over the next decade, the overall cost of glaucoma will reach $4.3 billion per annum. This Program will use genetic advances to personalise treatment. Blindness will be prevented in individuals at highest risk, new ways to treat patients will be developed, and better outcomes for patients will result from less treatment and monitoring of low risk cases.
The Role Of Microglia In Early Diabetic Retinopathy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$665,582.00
Summary
Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most feared complications of diabetes. This project will examine the role that retinal immune cells called microglia have in causing early changes in the vasculature. We will examine whether diabetes changes the way neurons communicate with blood vessels, opening up a possible treatment target that could prevent the progression to more advanced disease.
Young Adult Myopia: Genetic And Environmental Associations
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$809,271.00
Summary
Myopia affects 80% of school leavers in the cities of East Asia, 45% of Asian Australian school leavers and is probably on the rise in European Australian adolescents. Increased levels of education and lack of time outdoors are known to increase the risk of myopia. We will examine 2,000 young adults to find the genes that interact with these risk factors. In addition to confirming when these risk factors are most important, identifying molecular pathways opens the avenue of new treatments.