Understanding How The E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Parkin Dictates Neuronal Survival
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$947,560.00
Summary
Parkinson's disease is the fastest-growing neurodegenerative disorder, and the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's disease. The disease arises due to the loss of specific neurons in the brain that control motor function. We aim to understand what triggers these neurons to die and to resolve how inflammation promotes disease. This information will underpin the development of the first, and much needed, drugs that slow or stop Parkinson's disease progression.
Finely Tuned Glutamate Receptor Inhibitors As Novel Therapeutics For Neurodegenerative Disorders
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,168,829.00
Summary
Neurodegenerative disorders are among the leading causes of death and disease burden. New drugs are needed to treat both symptoms and disease progression. This project aims to understand the properties of different drug-like compounds to inhibit proteins on the surface of brain cells (glutamate receptors) to impact disease progression and symptoms in a preclinical disease models. The project will yield a better understanding of how best to target glutamate receptors for therapeutic effect.