This project will test the proposal that rising follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in ageing females directly accelerate reproductive failure and bone loss , major public health issues due to delayed childbearing and our rising ageing population. We have developed a unique mouse model with elevated FSH levels that cause premature female infertility. We will now use this model to determine the direct effects of high FSH upon ovarian and uterine function, as well as bone loss with age.
Impact Of Beta Adrenergic Antagonsim On Energy Metabolism And Body Composition
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$118,557.00
Summary
Beta-blockers are drugs commonly used to treat high blood pressure, anxiety, migraines and irregular heart rhythms. They work by blocking the action of chemical messengers called catecholamines which increase metabolic rate, fat utilisation and heart function. The aim is to determine whether ?-blockers impair metabolic function of the body which may lead to obesity and a loss of fitness. Judicious use of these medications and consideration of alternatives may lead to better health outcomes.
Regulation And Functional Roles Of ADAM 10 Protease In Prostate Cancer.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$465,750.00
Summary
Prostate cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death among western males. Most deaths from prostate cancer are due to the development of secondary tumours (metastases) in other body organs. Metastasis involves actions of enzymes, (called metalloproteinases) which can break down the tissue structure surrounding tumour cells, and actions of a family of proteins (called integrins)that control how cells stick to each other or to other tissue components. Both these actions allow tumour cel ....Prostate cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death among western males. Most deaths from prostate cancer are due to the development of secondary tumours (metastases) in other body organs. Metastasis involves actions of enzymes, (called metalloproteinases) which can break down the tissue structure surrounding tumour cells, and actions of a family of proteins (called integrins)that control how cells stick to each other or to other tissue components. Both these actions allow tumour cells to break free from their original tissue positions, walk through surrounding tissue and deposit themselves at distant sites to form a secondary tumour. In this research we are looking at a protein, called ADAM-10, which belongs to a family of proteases, the ADAMs, which contain both A Disintegrin And Metalloprotease activity, hence their name. Our data suggest ADAM-10 is produced in large quantities by prostate cancer cells but can be differently located within these cells it sits on the outer membrane of normal or benign prostate glands but re-locates to the cell nucleus in high grade prostate cancer cells. We have also identified ADAM-10 protein in small membrane fragments that are commonly shed from prostate cancer cells. Preliminary evidence suggests that levels of ADAM-10 in each of these locations is regulated by growth factors and-or the male sex hormone, androgen, key hormones involved in prostate cancer growth and progression. We do not yet know what actions ADAM-10 has when it occurs in these different locations but believe the membrane form will be involved in metastasis, with the nuclear form being involved in regulating events within the nucleus, the control centre for the cell. This grant application aims to build on our novel observations and investigate the underlying mechanisms of ADAM-10 hormonal regulation and function. If proven, these issues may be important for the development, progression and future treatment of prostate cancer.Read moreRead less