Copper Pathways Are Altered In Parkinson’s Disease: Implications For Cell Vulnerability
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$341,398.00
Summary
The cause of brain cell death in Parkinson’s disease is unknown but we have shown that copper levels are reduced in the vulnerable brain regions in this disorder. As copper is vital for the normal function of key brain proteins we suggest that reduced copper contributes to cell damage in vulnerable brain regions. This project investigates why brain copper levels are reduced in the Parkinson’s disease brain and the consequences of this change for brain cell function and survival.
The Role Of Metals In Healthy Brain Aging: Identification Of Novel Compounds To Prevent Age-related Cognitive Decline
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$789,733.00
Summary
This grant will explore the basic mechanisms that underlie normal learning and memory. Specifically, we are focussing on how the modulation of metal levels may occur with age, and how this may cause or at least contribute to age-related cognitive impairment. We are also examining a novel therapeutic compound for the treatment of cognitive dysfunction. This work will have implications for both normal and pathological ageing.
Modulating Cellular Copper Levels To Prevent The Effects Of Excitotoxicity In Neurodegenerative Diseases
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$434,652.00
Summary
Exitotoxicity has been implicated in many neurological disorders incluing Alzheimer's and Huntington's disesaes. This toxicity can be inhibited by modulated intracellular copper levels. Here we will ascertain the therapeutic potential of strategies designed to increase cellular copper levels.
Investigations On Copper Regulated Trafficking Of Amyloid Precursor Protein Of Alzheimer's Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$296,212.00
Summary
Sufferers of Alzheimer's disease have excessive levels of a particular protein (Abeta) as well as a copper imbalance in the brain. It is widely accepted that high Abeta content contributes to the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Copper imbalance in the brain also plays a major role in the pathology of the disease. This research aims to investigate the interplay between copper and the protein which gives rise to Abeta, with the view to developing targeted treatments for Alzheimer's patients.
Copper-ionophores As A Treatment For Prostate Cancer?
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$314,154.00
Summary
The overarching aim of this project is to evaluate a potential therapy for prostate cancer, which targets a distinct characteristic of the disease 'elevated copper'. Our copper-based drugs in the laboratory selectively destroy cancerous prostate cells without harming normal cells. We will verify whether these drugs work in the body where the environment is more complex. Proof of this principle will open up a new area of research and provide a novel therapeutic approach for prostate cancer.
Impaired Mitochondrial Energy Metabolism And The Therapeutic Activity Of Cu(atsm) In Age And Age-related Neurodegenerative Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$689,823.00
Summary
Cognitive function and locomotor ability decline due to advanced age and disorders such as motor neuron disease, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. We have identified a treatment that attenuates these symptoms of age and disease in mice, thus extending the healthy lifespan of the animals. This project will investigate the mechanisms by which the treatment works, thereby advancing our understanding of the causes of cognitive and locomotor decline and the development of preventative treatments.