Understanding The Role Of Circular RNAs In Neuronal Biology Using RNA-targeting CRISPR/Cas9
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$398,097.00
Summary
The regulation of gene expression through a process known as RNA splicing has been shown to be at the heart of a number of processes required for brain development, memory and learning, and is often dysregulated in a number of neurological diseases. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been recently shown to be a relatively abundant class of spliced RNA that are specifically enriched in brain tissue. In this project, I aim to understand the roles of circRNAs in neuronal development.
Investigation Of 5-methylcytosine And MicroRNA Function In Eukaryotic RNA
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$311,991.00
Summary
It is hypothesised that 5-methylcytosine in RNA represents a novel regulatory code affecting transcriptome utilisation in ways currently hidden from view. To unravel this code and its (patho)- physiological role(s), this study proposes to generate and interpret comprehensive transcriptome-scale maps of 5-methylcytosine in a range of cellular contexts chosen to reveal links to cellular differentiation, growth, and malignant transformation.
Intercellular RNA Transport In Mammals: Function And Significance
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$384,213.00
Summary
It was recently discovered that the nucleic acid RNA can turn genes off very potently. This raises the exciting possibility of using RNA as a new treatment for a wide range of diseases including cancer and infection. However, it is not known how RNA enters cells in our body. This project aims to understand how RNA is transported across cell membranes, will explore the significance of this process, and should ultimately assist efforts to develop more effective RNA-based therapeutics.
Structural And Functional Studies On RNA Nuclear Retention Mediated By Paraspeckles: A Novel Gene Regulation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$290,978.00
Summary
Dynamic interactions between proteins and nucleic acids are essential process in gene regulation, where aberrant regulation leads to various diseases including cancers. The project aims to examine the interactions between paraspeckle proteins and nucleic acid molecules via determination of the structures of protein-nucleic acid complexes at the atomic level. The results will provide a better understanding of a recently discovered gene regulation mechanism and a basis for new gene therapy.
Understanding The Role Of RAS Mutations In Thyroid Cancer.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$463,854.00
Summary
My fellowship will examine the association of RAS mutations in thyroid cancer. RAS proteins are the most mutated in cancer and I will investigate how they work in thyroid cancer. RAS mutated thyroid cancer is more likely to cause death. This grant will be based in the pioneering lab of Prof Fagin at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the Garvan Institute of Medical Research. It is hoped by understanding these mutations, new treatments for thyroid cancer can be developed.
Translating Advances In Cell-free Fetal Nucleic Acids Into Better Perinatal Care
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$187,322.00
Summary
My overall aim is to translate advances in biotechnology into better care for pregnant women. My first aim is to study brain development by analyzing the fluid that surrounds the unborn baby. This work may provide more information to women about their baby’s expected outcome. My second aim is to evaluate the impact of new DNA technologies on the detection of genetic conditions in the baby before birth. This work will confirm if this new generation of tests is fulfilling our high expectations.