Improving neuronal cell function with cell permeable copper complexes. Metal-based drugs offer an exciting new approach to treatment of neurodegeneration. However, little is known about how cells metabolise these drugs and this information is critical for further drug development. This project will determine how metal-based drugs are metabolised by neuronal cells and how this may result in therapeutic benefit.
Electrical properties of human dendrites. This project aims to determine the electrical properties of dendrites in human neurons. Dendrites are the primary site of synaptic input to neurons and their electrical properties play a key role in information processing in the brain. While we know much about the electrical properties of dendrites in other species, primarily rodents, little is known about the electrical properties of human dendrites. This project aims to address this gap in knowledge fo ....Electrical properties of human dendrites. This project aims to determine the electrical properties of dendrites in human neurons. Dendrites are the primary site of synaptic input to neurons and their electrical properties play a key role in information processing in the brain. While we know much about the electrical properties of dendrites in other species, primarily rodents, little is known about the electrical properties of human dendrites. This project aims to address this gap in knowledge for the first time. The results obtained will shed light on the mechanisms the brain uses to process information, and therefore will bring us a step closer to truly understanding ourselves.Read moreRead less
Resolving the Structures of Human Muscarinic M1 and M4 Receptors. Muscarinic receptors are vital for most basic human brain functions. These receptors are changed in schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. This project will determine the structure and localisation of two of these receptors in order to i) understand their roles in brain disorders and ii) develop drugs to treat disorders involving them.
Renewable energy generation from flow-induced vibration. Much engineering effort has been expended to eliminate vibration of marine structures. This project seeks to provide the basis for the development of tidal energy harnessing, by deliberately amplifying and harnessing vibration. This technology offers the promise of capturing clean, zero-emissions energy, while presenting no risk to marine life.
The social determinants of childhood injury. Child hood injury is a preventable problem of major importance. This project will provide a comprehensive, research-based policy solution that will minimise death and disability among children zero to three years of age.
Role of the superior colliculus in sensory processing. The ability of an organism to attend to, and orient towards, stimuli in the environment is critical for survival. In the mammalian brain, the principal brain region performing this function is the superior colliculus. Despite its importance, little is known about the role the superior colliculus plays in sensory perception. This project addresses this issue by leveraging revolutionary new recording techniques to determine how the superior co ....Role of the superior colliculus in sensory processing. The ability of an organism to attend to, and orient towards, stimuli in the environment is critical for survival. In the mammalian brain, the principal brain region performing this function is the superior colliculus. Despite its importance, little is known about the role the superior colliculus plays in sensory perception. This project addresses this issue by leveraging revolutionary new recording techniques to determine how the superior colliculus codes sensory information and ultimately drives behaviour. The outcomes will be of immediate benefit to scientists studying sensory processing and perceptual decision making, and will help keep Australia at the forefront of brain-inspired engineering and the neuroscience-based knowledge economy.Read moreRead less
Engineering functional nerves using microtailored culture systems. The aim of this work is to develop new culture systems for developing and growing nerves outside of the body. The project will generate knowledge and engineering technology for production of neural implants suitable for medical applications. The availability of engineered nerve grafts to repair neural injuries will improve patient health outcomes.
Development of Control Methodologies for Drug Dosing in Biomedical Engineering. This research proposal is very relevant to the National Research Priorities in the areas of Frontier Technologies and Breakthrough science. At a broader level, we aim to assist in the development of a national competence in what has been an emerging and promising discipline. The research will develop fundamental and enabling laws and techniques for drug administration to regulate physiological variables such as blood ....Development of Control Methodologies for Drug Dosing in Biomedical Engineering. This research proposal is very relevant to the National Research Priorities in the areas of Frontier Technologies and Breakthrough science. At a broader level, we aim to assist in the development of a national competence in what has been an emerging and promising discipline. The research will develop fundamental and enabling laws and techniques for drug administration to regulate physiological variables such as blood pressure and degree of consciousness in critical care patients.Read moreRead less
Modelling human brain development with stem cells and biomaterials. With limited resources to directly study and advance our understanding of human neural development, this
proposal will establish models of 4 key stages. Employing innovative, interdisciplinary approaches, biomaterials will be fabricated to provide structural and chemical support for human stem cells during: (i) neural induction, (ii) specification into neuronal progenitor subpopulations, (iii) neuronal maturation and integration ....Modelling human brain development with stem cells and biomaterials. With limited resources to directly study and advance our understanding of human neural development, this
proposal will establish models of 4 key stages. Employing innovative, interdisciplinary approaches, biomaterials will be fabricated to provide structural and chemical support for human stem cells during: (i) neural induction, (ii) specification into neuronal progenitor subpopulations, (iii) neuronal maturation and integration into complex neural networks as well as, (iv) the organisation of neurons into larger 3-dimensional brain structures, namely folding of the human cortex. Further, biomaterials developed here have commercialisation potential, targeted at standardizing the culturing of human stem cells to defined neural populations.
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Using nanostructured biomaterials and stem cells to repair spinal cord injuries. There is currently no effective cure for spinal cord injuries and the consequences to the patient are devastating. Spinal cord injuries affects limb, bowel, bladder and sexual function, and many people with these injuries strugle to maintain their independence. Because people can live for many years after spinal cord damage, the financial and social costs are immense, as many are dependent on the help of others for ....Using nanostructured biomaterials and stem cells to repair spinal cord injuries. There is currently no effective cure for spinal cord injuries and the consequences to the patient are devastating. Spinal cord injuries affects limb, bowel, bladder and sexual function, and many people with these injuries strugle to maintain their independence. Because people can live for many years after spinal cord damage, the financial and social costs are immense, as many are dependent on the help of others for their survival. This proposal tackles this urgent problem by applying advanced nanostructured materials with stem cells, to assist the body in the repair of the spinal cord following injury. Read moreRead less