Hemoglobin is the major protein in red blood cells and is essential for the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues. The disorders of hemoglobin production are the commonest genetic diseases world-wide. These diseases can be markedly improved with elevation of the form of hemoglobin produced by the developing fetus, fetal hemoglobin. We have identified a key factor important for fetal gene expression. We will now determine whether manipulation of this factor can cure hemoglobin disorde ....Hemoglobin is the major protein in red blood cells and is essential for the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues. The disorders of hemoglobin production are the commonest genetic diseases world-wide. These diseases can be markedly improved with elevation of the form of hemoglobin produced by the developing fetus, fetal hemoglobin. We have identified a key factor important for fetal gene expression. We will now determine whether manipulation of this factor can cure hemoglobin disorders.Read moreRead less
A Novel Genetic Element Controlling Adult Hemoglobin Production
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$493,907.00
Summary
Disorders of the blood protein hemoglobin are the commonest genetic diseases worldwide, and include thalassemia and sickle cell disease. In this proposal we study two novel mouse lines that exhibit thalassemia, but lack any of the known genetic mutations that cause this disease. These mice afford us the opportunity to make unique observations into how hemoglobin is produced, and thereby provide a platform for new therapeutic approaches in these devastating diseases of the blood.
Identification Of Novel Mechanisms Governing Stage-specific Regulation Of The Human Globin Genes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$577,889.00
Summary
Hemoglobin is the major protein in red blood cells and is essential for the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues. The disorders of hemoglobin production are the commonest genetic diseases world-wide. These diseases can be markedly improved with elevation of the form of hemoglobin produced by the developing embryo, embryonic hemoglobin. We have identified a key factor important for fetal gene expression. Our goal is to translate these findings into therapies for the globin disorders.
Genetic Analysis Of Drug Resistance In Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$227,036.00
Summary
Treatment for childhood leukaemia fails in approximately 25% of children owing to resistance to the drugs being used. Our recent evidence suggests that only a few rare leukaemic cells are initially resistant at the commencement of treatment. This project aims to isolate these rare cells and to look for genetic changes in them which might account for their resistance. Hopefully an understanding of the genetic basis for drug resistance will lead to better means of overcoming it.