Integrative Properites Of Intrinsic Sensory Neurons Of The Intestine
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$211,681.00
Summary
For the neuronal control of the intestine to be appropriate to the constantly changing state of the organ, it is essential that there is feedback concerning, amongst other things, distension by its contents and its contractile state. These properties of the intestine are monitored by intrinsic sensory neurons, which are very special sensory cells, because they are embedded in the wall of the organ that they control. They have only very recently been identified, and thus surprisingly little is kn ....For the neuronal control of the intestine to be appropriate to the constantly changing state of the organ, it is essential that there is feedback concerning, amongst other things, distension by its contents and its contractile state. These properties of the intestine are monitored by intrinsic sensory neurons, which are very special sensory cells, because they are embedded in the wall of the organ that they control. They have only very recently been identified, and thus surprisingly little is known about how they perform their functions. It is clear, however, that they have special ways of integrating information about their environment, and the activities of other neurons, that are not shared by any other sensory neurons identified to the present time. Thus investigation of these neurons will provide information that is almost completely lacking about how the intestine performs its tasks. This information will be valuable in defining targets for development of therapeutic compounds and in analysing disorders of intestinal motility.Read moreRead less
Over 80 million people have chronic constipation. It affects over 1/5 older people and is a major problem in aged-care. We have found that a painless method of electrical stimulation across the abdomen can overcome chronic constipation in children and adults. We will test the method to see what types of constipation it can help, including constipation caused by pain-medication and irritable bowel syndrome. This treatment is given at home and could improve life for many people around the world.
Bridging The GAPP Between The Laboratory And Clinic To Prevent Gastric Adenocarcinoma And Proximal Polyposis Of The Stomach (GAPPS).
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$724,877.00
Summary
Gastric Adenocarcinoma and Proximal Polyposis of the Stomach (GAPPS) is an inherited form of gastric cancer. Affected patients develop a large number of gastric polyps and are at risk of gastric cancer in their 30s. The only effective treatment is to surgically remove the stomach. Gastrectomy is, however, associated with significant post-operative complications. We will use laboratory and mouse models of GAPPS to identify acceptable new approaches to prevent cancer in these patients.
My major goal for the past 20 years has been to understand how hormones such as gastrin stimulate the development of gastrointestinal cancer. One approach has been to define the intracellular signalling pathways by which gastrins enhance cell growth. Our discovery that iron is essential for the biological activity of gastrins may allow the development of novel therapies for colon cancer and iron overload.
My research focuses on mechanisms of intestinal iron absorption and its regulation, with a particular emphasis on understanding human disorders where iron homeostasis is perturbed.
Endoscopic Removal Of Lesions In The Gastrointestinal Tract
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$71,855.00
Summary
Barrett's oesophagus and flat colonic polyps are premalignant lesions with potential for progression to oesophageal and colorectal cancer, respectively. These cancers make up a signifiant portion of the burden of cancer disease in Australia. This research aims to improve outcomes of patients with Barrett's oesophagus and flat polyps by establishing the most appropriate treatment approach to Barrett's oesophagus, identifying risk factors that cause disease progression and by novel ways of enhanci ....Barrett's oesophagus and flat colonic polyps are premalignant lesions with potential for progression to oesophageal and colorectal cancer, respectively. These cancers make up a signifiant portion of the burden of cancer disease in Australia. This research aims to improve outcomes of patients with Barrett's oesophagus and flat polyps by establishing the most appropriate treatment approach to Barrett's oesophagus, identifying risk factors that cause disease progression and by novel ways of enhancing the technique of removal of polyps.Read moreRead less