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Growth factors are essential molecules for normal brain development. Variations in the amount of the different growth factors have been implicated in such diseases as AlzheimerÍs and ParkinsonÍs disease. This project will study the precursor of a growth factor known as brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and what specific roles the precursor might play in brain development.
Nerve And Muscle Excitability In Inclusion Body Myositis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$81,294.00
Summary
Our study will use recently developed neurophysiological techniques to study nerve and muscle excitability in sporadic inclusion body myositis, a poorly understood progressive muscle disease for which no effective treatment is known. We will determine whether the electrical properties of nerve and muscle cell membranes are affected and obtain clues as to where this dysfunction may occur. This may aid development of effective therapies through a better understanding of disease mechanisms.
Mechanisms Of Ion Channel Dysfunction In Hereditary And Acquired Neuropathies
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$404,869.00
Summary
Nerve function is dependent on ion channels, which provide the basis for neurotransmission. Inherited or acquired abnormalities in ion channel function are important in diseases including epilepsy, pain disorders, neuromuscular diseases and toxic neuropathy. This project will use a combination of techniques to study mechanisms underlying nerve dysfunction to compare genetic nerve problems and acquired nerve damage to understand how damage occurs and develop new therapies and diagnostic tests.
Electrophysiological And Neuroanatomical Determination Of Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis With The C9ORF72 Mutation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$77,490.00
Summary
Motor Neuron Disease (MND) is a rapidly progressive neurological illness. A new genetic mutation C9ORF72 has recently been identified as a cause of MND. Little is known about the neurophysiological properties in these patients. We wish to better characterise the nerve function in these patients, using a new technique; 'Threshold tracking transcranial magnetic stimulation' and other existing neurophysiological techniques.
AUSSPRINT:Australian Study Of The Effects Of Strict Potassium Restriction On Neuropathy In Chronic Kidney Disease.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$252,653.00
Summary
Patients with chronic kidney disease, when compared to healthy controls, are weaker, less active and have reduced exercise capacity. These physical limitations have in turn been linked to low quality of life and higher mortality rates. Studies have shown that high blood levels of potassium may cause nerve damage in chronic kidney disease patients.This study explores the benefits of strict potassium restriction as a means of reducing neuropathy rates in patients with chronic kidney disease.
The Distribution And Spread Of Motor System Dysfunction In Early Motor Neurone Disease.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$107,287.00
Summary
At present, motor neurone disease remains an incurable, fatal neurodegenerative condition with few disease-modifying treatments. There is ongoing uncertainty around the mechanisms of onset and disease propagation. This research aims to clarify the onset and pathophysiological mechanisms of motor neurone disease using novel neurophysiological and neuroimaging techniques, the results of which will contribute to the search for early diagnositc markers and new treatments.