PCSK9 is an inhibitor of the receptor that is responsible for removing LDL (the bad cholesterol) from the circulation. We will study the molecular mechanisms that inhibit PCSK9 at the protein level. This study is needed to understand if drugs that inhibit PCSK9 will diminish the risk of developing heart disease in patients who do not respond well to existing treatments, for example those who already had a cardiovascular event or those with familial hypercholesterolemia.
How Does The LRP Receptor Megalin Promote Regenerative Neuronal Growth?
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$408,739.00
Summary
Promoting the regenerative growth of neurons to allow recovery from traumatic brain injury or Alzheimer's disease is a major goal of neuroscientists. This project continues the Chief Investigators' work in which they have discovered the regenerative potential of a protein and focuses on how this protein interacts with a key neuronal receptor, megalin, which appears to drive the regenerative process. This work will identify new targets for therapies for a range of nervous system disorders.
Enhancing The Blood-brain Barrier Efflux Of ?-amyloid: A Novel Approach For The Treatment Of Alzheimer’s Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$291,274.00
Summary
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia and is associated with the accumulation of a toxic protein in the brain. This project will investigate whether enhancing the removal of this toxic protein from the brain (by shuttling it into the blood) will restore the memory deficit associated with AD. The outcomes of this project have the potential to lead to novel strategies for the treatment of this debilitating disorder.