Physiological Function Of The Novel Vitamin D Receptor Isoform
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$465,750.00
Summary
Vitamin D regulates a wide range of physiological systems including those involved in control of calcium blood level and bone health as well as regulation of the immune system and of cell growth. Vitamin D action is mediated through the vitamin D receptor (VDR), a member of a large family of proteins that regulate the activity of specific target genes that control numerous biological functions. A novel, larger form of the human VDR has recently been described in our laboratory. This novel form s ....Vitamin D regulates a wide range of physiological systems including those involved in control of calcium blood level and bone health as well as regulation of the immune system and of cell growth. Vitamin D action is mediated through the vitamin D receptor (VDR), a member of a large family of proteins that regulate the activity of specific target genes that control numerous biological functions. A novel, larger form of the human VDR has recently been described in our laboratory. This novel form shows differences in activity from the shorter VDR form (VDRA) and also has an unusual distribution within the nucleus of the cell that may relate to its function. The present project focuses on further analysis of the relevance of this novel VDR isoform to normal physiology. We hypothesise that the larger VDR isoform has unique characteristics that may modify how vitamin D works in different cells and tissues, on specific target genes and in response to different active forms of vitamin D. These differences depend on this novel isoform s interaction with specific nuclear proteins that regulate the actions of other hormone receptors. The specific aims of this project are to study the functions of the novel VDR isoform in comparison to VDRA: * On different target genes that are either activated or inhibited in response to vitamin D, and on different cell lines from tissues where vitamin D has important roles, like intestine, kidney and bone * In their response to natural and synthetic vitamin D compounds, because of their possible therapeutic applications * In their interactions with intranuclear regulatory proteins, to understand the underlying mechanisms The study of these two forms of the VDR will help to clarify their potentially different cellular roles and their contribution to the wide range of physiological processes regulated by the vitamin D endocrine system. This understanding may open new paths for treatments of human bone and calcium-related diseases.Read moreRead less
Novel Approaches For Activation And Expansion Of Genetically Modified T Cells In Vivo
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$115,660.00
Summary
Killer T lymphocytes can penetrate tumors and their propagation and transfer into cancer patients has demonstrated some encouraging results, but this form of adoptive immunotherapy remains ineffective in most cancer patients. We propose to improve the tumor trafficking and anti-tumor activities of killer cells by genetically engineering them with proteins that will enable them to recognise and destroy cancer cells. Our previous work has indicated that killer T lymphocytes can be genetically engi ....Killer T lymphocytes can penetrate tumors and their propagation and transfer into cancer patients has demonstrated some encouraging results, but this form of adoptive immunotherapy remains ineffective in most cancer patients. We propose to improve the tumor trafficking and anti-tumor activities of killer cells by genetically engineering them with proteins that will enable them to recognise and destroy cancer cells. Our previous work has indicated that killer T lymphocytes can be genetically engineered in culture with tumor recognition receptors. When transferred into mice, these genetically engineered cells can release toxic and inflammatory proteins that cause tumor destruction. In this proposal we wish to further test this approach in mice by enginneering the mouse killer T cells with (i) receptors that provide stronger signals for killing and proliferation; and (ii) with receptors targeting other structures on tumor cells including the tumor vasculature as a means to overcome tumor escape. In addition, we wish to test a novel approach of combining both genetic engineering and vaccination strategies for expanding gene-modified cells after adoptive transfer. These studies will allow the best receptor genes to be transferred to human white blood cells and examined for anti-tumor effects in immune-deficient mice.Read moreRead less
Abalone Council Australia Ltd Management Of The National Wild Catch Abalone Research, Development And Extension Program (2024 To 2029)
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$760,000.00
Summary
Implementing an Industry Partnership Agreement (IPA) was necessary to provide a more coordinated approach to RD&E and ensure that research funds were utilised in the more cost effective and strategic manner. It also “quarantined” funds to be overseen by the ACA for investment in Abalone specific research, giving the industry greater opportunity for input into the research that was funded and greater relevance of project outputs.
The second ACA/FRDC IPA expired in early 2024 and the AC ....Implementing an Industry Partnership Agreement (IPA) was necessary to provide a more coordinated approach to RD&E and ensure that research funds were utilised in the more cost effective and strategic manner. It also “quarantined” funds to be overseen by the ACA for investment in Abalone specific research, giving the industry greater opportunity for input into the research that was funded and greater relevance of project outputs.
The second ACA/FRDC IPA expired in early 2024 and the ACA Board and FRDC are now establishing a new IPA for the period 2024 to 2029.
Historically, industry’s focus has been on management and stock sustainability, although the potential for growth through higher harvest levels via upward quota adjustment is limited. Indeed, since 2011/12, the total annual harvest has fallen from 4,450t to 1965 t in 2023/2024 (a reduction of 56%). The decreasing productivity of Australian abalone fisheries may be attributed to a number of “complex” causes of which fishing mortality is but one; others include: habitat loss due to Centrostephanus urchin, environmental change & marine heat waves, disease outbreak (AVG, Perkinsus), and reduced natural recruitment, all of which reduce fishery productivity.
Please refer to the below table which clearly shows the decreasing productivity of all abalone fisheries in Australia.
State TACC in tonnes 2011/2012 TACC in tonnes 2017/2018 TACC in tonnes 2022/2023 TACC in tonnes 2023/2024 Tasmania 2366 1333.5 794.5 756 South Australia 834 717.5 564.4 544 Victoria 806 595.3 610.9 457 Western Australia 349 143.4 123.5 108 New South Wales 94 100 100 100 TOTAL 4450 2889.70 2193.3 1965
Notwithstanding the lower harvest levels, the industry remains a significant exporter with a total GVP around $135 million in 2023/24.
Objectives: 1. To coordinate the planning, implementation, and reporting of abalone related R&D projects funded by the FRDC to achieve the outcomes specified in the third ACA Strategic Plan. Specifically, this must be at both the National level and regionally across WA, SA, VIC, NSW and TAS. 2. To facilitate the abalone industry participation in FRDC projects and the extension and utilization of the project results. 3. To deliver resources and processes that consolidates and coordinates Abalone related RD&E planning and funding so that overall RD&E outcomes are delivered in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Read moreRead less
SCRC: The SIPP Program - Connecting Early Career Researchers With The Australian Seafood Industry Through Meaningful Coaching Partnerships: Year 2
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Summary
Disconnection between research and commercial sectors are a real challenge for the seafood industry as a whole. This disconnection leads to lack of communication about research needs from industry and poor adoption of research outcomes. Consultation with industry has identified a need for more industry ready graduates who have a deeper understanding and connection with the Australian seafood industry and understand more thoroughly the nature and the challenges commercial facilities face in all f ....Disconnection between research and commercial sectors are a real challenge for the seafood industry as a whole. This disconnection leads to lack of communication about research needs from industry and poor adoption of research outcomes. Consultation with industry has identified a need for more industry ready graduates who have a deeper understanding and connection with the Australian seafood industry and understand more thoroughly the nature and the challenges commercial facilities face in all facets of their business.
In addition, there is a need to enhance two way communication and cooperation between industry and research providers. The CRC SIPP program will assist in improving that process by enabling opportunities for industry and researchers to understand each other’s views, challenges and promote better communication on ideas and projects.Read moreRead less
Review the preconditions and the underpinning industry and government structures necessary for the successful implementation of co management Objectives: 1. To investigate the resilience of the various co-management approaches to a changing fishing operational environment (biophysical and socio-governance) 2. To look at the lessons learnt, and the challenges arising from, the implementation of co-management in all jurisdictions; with a view to identifying positive and negati ....Review the preconditions and the underpinning industry and government structures necessary for the successful implementation of co management Objectives: 1. To investigate the resilience of the various co-management approaches to a changing fishing operational environment (biophysical and socio-governance) 2. To look at the lessons learnt, and the challenges arising from, the implementation of co-management in all jurisdictions; with a view to identifying positive and negative drivers 3. To assess the skill sets needed to successfully implement co-management 4. To assess how to resource co-management once the fishery has moved past the RD&E phase 5. To identify the relevant RD&E questions to inform future investment 6. To document recommendations for the future implementation of co management Read moreRead less
Developing And Testing A Cultural Change Process In The NSW Wild Harvest Sector: A Case Study To Facilitate A Process Towards Co-management In The NSW Northern Fish Trawl
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$201,339.23
Summary
In a scan of FRDC projects with “co-management” in the title five projects identify a need for a culture change to allow co-management, but none provided a process by which such culture change could occur.
The NSW wild harvest industry needs support with culture change skills to allow the Industry Vision to become real. The Industry Vision speaks to fisheries management built on co-management and stakeholder consultation. The current culture of the fishing industry is limiting the indus ....In a scan of FRDC projects with “co-management” in the title five projects identify a need for a culture change to allow co-management, but none provided a process by which such culture change could occur.
The NSW wild harvest industry needs support with culture change skills to allow the Industry Vision to become real. The Industry Vision speaks to fisheries management built on co-management and stakeholder consultation. The current culture of the fishing industry is limiting the industry from being an active participant to this vision. Unless this is urgently addressed the combative relationship between industry and Government will not change.
We focus on developing a process of culture change involving both the seafood sector and government. A new culture will underpin and support initiatives between government and the seafood sector. Co-management provides a tangible goal for the participants in this project, but the need being addressed is testing and developing of a process of culture change explicitly for seafood industry and government agencies.
The Industry Vision needs stakeholders to adopt new ways of thinking, relating, and working so they are receptive to the Industry Vision. Significant growth in this sector is possible, in NSW landings of fish could grow as much as 30% (Smith et al 2019). Unless the industry has confidence to commit to the long-term future of the fishing industry and encourage young fishers to see this future this value will never be realised.
This project will pilot an culture change approach never tried in the seafood industry to: • identify and explain the current relationship dynamics between industry and regulators ; • design and implement a suite of projects to transform the relationships to build a trusting and collaborative culture; • develop the framework and practices that will enable and support self-perpetuating culture change.
There is goodwill and intent by NSW Government to move forward to strong working relationships with industry eg Harvest Strategy Working Groups, and a culture change process will provide the confidence to invest in building relationships and being engaged.
Objectives: 1. To establish a group of industry and government leaders/mentors to provide an enduring resource to assist the NSW Northern Fish Trawl sector to facilitate cultural and strategic change to move towards an agreed co-management model and a profitable fishery 2. To design a set of activities/projects to assist industry and government stakeholders to embark on a journey of shifting their beliefs and behaviours to support a viable and highly functional co-management process for the NSW Northern Fish Trawl sector 3. To enable stakeholders from government and from the NSW Northern Fish Trawl sector to participate in a co-management process that guides a stewardship framework to navigate the management, research, and compliance of aquatic resources Read moreRead less
Aquatic Animal Health Subprogram: Technical Guidelines For The Translocation Of Live Aquatic Animals
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$18,000.00
Summary
There is an existing National Policy for the Translocation of Live Aquatic Organisms. published by the Ministerial Council of Forestry, Fisheries and Aquaculture (1999). This provides the policy basis for translocation within Australia. Industry concern about the practical processes for achieving translocation approval lead to the funding of FRDC 2002/080. In addition, recent concern among jurisdictions over VER outbreaks has emphasised the need to develop technical guidelines to underpin test ....There is an existing National Policy for the Translocation of Live Aquatic Organisms. published by the Ministerial Council of Forestry, Fisheries and Aquaculture (1999). This provides the policy basis for translocation within Australia. Industry concern about the practical processes for achieving translocation approval lead to the funding of FRDC 2002/080. In addition, recent concern among jurisdictions over VER outbreaks has emphasised the need to develop technical guidelines to underpin testing, as well as policy guidelines, for finfish. Objectives: 1. To progress a common approach to the translocation of live finfish across Australia for aquaculture and restocking purposes. Read moreRead less