The Molecular Basis For The Initiation Of Squamous Differentiation And How It Is Disrupted In Oral Cancers
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$64,631.00
Summary
Squamous cancers of the mouth, nose and throat occur due to defects in the cells that line these regions. We have shown that a major defect is that the lining cells are unable to stop growing and mature into cells that provide a barrier against the environment. In this proposal we will undertake studies to identify why these cancers cells do not mature properly. In doing so we will be able to identify new strategies that may be used to treat patients with this frequently deadly cancer.
Developmental Potential Of Murine Keratinocyte Stem Cells
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$212,036.00
Summary
The stem cells of the epidermis or outer lining of the skin are an important group of cells with a role in normal cell replenishment, in wound healing and in skin disorders such as psoriasis and cancer. These primitive cells remain in the skin during the lifetime of an individual and are responsible for the production of mature, functional cells that form a protective barrier against the environment and pathogens. We have recently developed a strategy for the isolation of stem cells of the skin ....The stem cells of the epidermis or outer lining of the skin are an important group of cells with a role in normal cell replenishment, in wound healing and in skin disorders such as psoriasis and cancer. These primitive cells remain in the skin during the lifetime of an individual and are responsible for the production of mature, functional cells that form a protective barrier against the environment and pathogens. We have recently developed a strategy for the isolation of stem cells of the skin which places us in a unique position to further study these cells and determine possible therapeutic approaches for the future. The aims of this project encompass testing the potency of skin stem cells (i) to reform complex structures such as a mature epidermis, hair follicles and sebaceous glands; and (ii) to give rise to cells from other tissues such as muscle and liver. A final aim of this project is to dissect the complexity of the stem cell compartment further to gain insights into how normal skin growth is regulated.Read moreRead less
A Novel Tumour Suppressor Function Of E2F7 In Squamous Cell Carcinoma Formation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$524,124.00
Summary
squamous cell carcinomas of the skin are the second most common skin cancer. In this proposal we present data showing that a new gene, E2F7, may play an important role in the development of squamous cell carcinoma. If true, these studies will identify a new therapeutic target that could be exploited in developing novel anticancer therapies.
The Role Of Keratin End-domains In Filament Biology
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$139,235.00
Summary
The skin is the largest organ in the body and is the main interface between the organism and the external environment. It protects us from UV radiation, microbial invasion and chemical attack. It is able to repair itself and in fact, is continually renewing itself. In this study, we propose to examine the biology of keratins and the filament networks they form. Keratins are the most abundant proteins present in the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. Keratins form a cellular skeleton that re ....The skin is the largest organ in the body and is the main interface between the organism and the external environment. It protects us from UV radiation, microbial invasion and chemical attack. It is able to repair itself and in fact, is continually renewing itself. In this study, we propose to examine the biology of keratins and the filament networks they form. Keratins are the most abundant proteins present in the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. Keratins form a cellular skeleton that reinforces skin cells to help them withstand mechanical trauma. Mutations in these proteins result in a much weaker skeleton and ultimately in disease. We will examine how the keratin building blocks are transported around the cell to where they are needed. We will also determine the effect of mutations in this transport process on the biology of the cell. These studies may provide important clues into certain inherited skin disorders.Read moreRead less