The Role Of The Chaperone NASP In Regulating Histone Dynamics During DNA Replication And Repair
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$371,602.00
Summary
To fit inside our cells, DNA is intricately packaged with histone proteins into chromatin. All aspects of cell function are regulated by this packaging. My research will help us to understand how the cellular life of histones is controlled by a protein called NASP to ensure the packaging is correctly maintained and reorganised during normal genome function.
Long Noncoding RNA In Space And Time, And The Regulation Of Fear Extinction
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,012,245.00
Summary
Most of our genome is made up noncoding RNA; however, nothing is known about why a special class of noncoding RNA would be expressed in synapses, and how this affects learning and memory related to neuropsychiatric disorders. Understanding the fundamental molecular machinery underlying the formation of fear extinction memory will enable the development of new treatment approaches for anxiety-related disorders that are characterised by memory deficits.
Inflammation Drives TFF2 Epigenetic Silencing In Gastric Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$618,909.00
Summary
Over one million deaths from stomach cancer will occur annually in the next decade. This often fatal disease can be caused by infection from childhood by the bacterium H. pylori. We will study a new link between the inflammation caused by H. pylori and a type of mutation known as epigenetic silencing that switches off a gene which normally prevents stomach cancer. Understanding this process will help us to discover approaches for early detection of stomach cancer and lead to the development of n ....Over one million deaths from stomach cancer will occur annually in the next decade. This often fatal disease can be caused by infection from childhood by the bacterium H. pylori. We will study a new link between the inflammation caused by H. pylori and a type of mutation known as epigenetic silencing that switches off a gene which normally prevents stomach cancer. Understanding this process will help us to discover approaches for early detection of stomach cancer and lead to the development of new drugs that prevent disease.Read moreRead less
Deciphering The Epigenetic Code Of T Lymphocyte Stability In Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$662,785.00
Summary
T lymphocytes defend against invading pathogens and establish immunological memory to protect us if the infection returns. As there are many different types of pathogens, T lymphocytes must be flexible in the way they respond to infection but also stable once they have decided on the appropriate type of response. This complex decision-making appears to be dictated by epigenetic changes to the chromatin state of the cell. This work will uncover epigenetic factors that maintain this balance to pro ....T lymphocytes defend against invading pathogens and establish immunological memory to protect us if the infection returns. As there are many different types of pathogens, T lymphocytes must be flexible in the way they respond to infection but also stable once they have decided on the appropriate type of response. This complex decision-making appears to be dictated by epigenetic changes to the chromatin state of the cell. This work will uncover epigenetic factors that maintain this balance to protect us against disease.Read moreRead less
Analysis Of The Osteoclast Methylome For Characterisation Of Epigenetic Mechanisms Underlying Metabolic Bone Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$299,018.00
Summary
A large number of genetic variants have been identified that have a role in osteoporosis, however for many of these, the mechanism by which they influence the disease remains to be determined. This study will fill a critical knowledge gap by investigating the epigenetic control of gene expression in osteoclasts (bone resorbing cells). This research will generate a unique international resource that will provide foundation data to understand and treat this prevalent and debilitating bone disease.
Developing An In Vitro Model Of A Human Blastocyst
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$890,062.00
Summary
Using novel cellular and molecular technologies we propose to develop an artificial model of an early human blastocyst. This will allow us to study the first initial steps in human development without the use of real embryos. Such a model will not only help us decipher the first steps in human development, but we anticipate it will be essential to study how gene mutations and the environment affect this initial step in human development.
Epigenetic Signatures Of Abnormal Adult Neurogenesis In Rett Syndrome
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$869,332.00
Summary
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental condition arising in early childhood. In Australia, RTT affects an estimated 1/8500 females. The vast majority of RTT patients carry a single mutation in the gene MeCP2. Recent advances in genetic engineering may allow MeCP2 mutations to be corrected in patients. This study will assess whether other molecular factors are involved in the RTT phenotype in patient neurons, and whether these factors are likely to be corrected by MeCP2 gene therapy.
Uncovering Sex Specific, Epigenetic Biomarkers Of Healthy Ageing For Targeted Exercise Interventions
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,449,800.00
Summary
The aged population accounts for a significant, and increasing, amount of Australia’s health budget. We aim to uncover novel molecular biomarkers that slow the ageing process and maintain good health for longer. We will use innovative DNA and protein analysis to study the molecular ‘clocks’ of young and old populations and to test whether exercise can slow the ageing process. This will underpin the development of evidence-based biomarkers to be used in personalised health interventions.
Epigenetic Predictors Of Outcome In Malignant Glioma
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$697,720.00
Summary
Human high grade gliomas (HGG) present as heterogeneous disease, primarily defined by the histologic appearance of the tumor cells.Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common illness and continues to have a very poor prognosis, despite the use of multimodality therapy including surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. We will use our existing biobank of specimens, clinical information and molecular investigation to identify factors that determine outcomes.