Investigation Of 5-methylcytosine And MicroRNA Function In Eukaryotic RNA
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$311,991.00
Summary
It is hypothesised that 5-methylcytosine in RNA represents a novel regulatory code affecting transcriptome utilisation in ways currently hidden from view. To unravel this code and its (patho)- physiological role(s), this study proposes to generate and interpret comprehensive transcriptome-scale maps of 5-methylcytosine in a range of cellular contexts chosen to reveal links to cellular differentiation, growth, and malignant transformation.
Understanding The Role Of Circular RNAs In Neuronal Biology Using RNA-targeting CRISPR/Cas9
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$398,097.00
Summary
The regulation of gene expression through a process known as RNA splicing has been shown to be at the heart of a number of processes required for brain development, memory and learning, and is often dysregulated in a number of neurological diseases. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been recently shown to be a relatively abundant class of spliced RNA that are specifically enriched in brain tissue. In this project, I aim to understand the roles of circRNAs in neuronal development.
The Role Of Nalp1 In Autoimmune Disease And Innate Immune Defense As Determined By Murine Genetic Deletion.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$320,237.00
Summary
The innate immune system is a critical barrier against invading microorganisms, however when improperly regulated it can lead to autoimmune disease. Nalp1 is a protein that is important for innate immune recognition of anthrax infection, and is also involved in susceptibility to vitiligo and associated autoimmune diseases. This project seeks to create mice that are deficient for the gene encoding Nalp1 so as to further study the role of this protein in innate immune defense and autoimmunity.
Intercellular RNA Transport In Mammals: Function And Significance
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$384,213.00
Summary
It was recently discovered that the nucleic acid RNA can turn genes off very potently. This raises the exciting possibility of using RNA as a new treatment for a wide range of diseases including cancer and infection. However, it is not known how RNA enters cells in our body. This project aims to understand how RNA is transported across cell membranes, will explore the significance of this process, and should ultimately assist efforts to develop more effective RNA-based therapeutics.
Structural And Functional Studies On RNA Nuclear Retention Mediated By Paraspeckles: A Novel Gene Regulation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$290,978.00
Summary
Dynamic interactions between proteins and nucleic acids are essential process in gene regulation, where aberrant regulation leads to various diseases including cancers. The project aims to examine the interactions between paraspeckle proteins and nucleic acid molecules via determination of the structures of protein-nucleic acid complexes at the atomic level. The results will provide a better understanding of a recently discovered gene regulation mechanism and a basis for new gene therapy.
Understanding The Role Of RAS Mutations In Thyroid Cancer.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$463,854.00
Summary
My fellowship will examine the association of RAS mutations in thyroid cancer. RAS proteins are the most mutated in cancer and I will investigate how they work in thyroid cancer. RAS mutated thyroid cancer is more likely to cause death. This grant will be based in the pioneering lab of Prof Fagin at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the Garvan Institute of Medical Research. It is hoped by understanding these mutations, new treatments for thyroid cancer can be developed.
The Effect Of Follicular Helper T Cells (TFH) On AID Regulation And Selection Of High Affinity Germinal Centre B Cells.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$430,964.00
Summary
An integral component of an immune response to foreign pathogens is the production of antibodies by B cells. However, if antibodies react to self-antigens (human molecules rather than bacteria or viruses) they may also cause autoimmune diseases such as lupus. This research project is investigating the mechanisms that control antibody generation by B cells, and how these are dysregulated in autoimmune diseases, such as lupus.