Clinical Research Translation In Fluorescence-guided Surgery Of Brain Cancer: Developing A Surgical Endoscope With Enhanced Contrast
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$318,768.00
Summary
This proposal aims to improve the life expectancy of brain cancer patients by developing a new neurosurgical optical imaging device. The technology will transform the recently developed fluorescence-guided surgery procedure, where the tumour is endowed with artificial fluorescence. Our state-of-the art technology will enhance the fluorescence detection beyond visual perception to help remove hard-to-detect small cancer cell clusters, resulting in more accurate surgical removal of tumours.
Evaluating Coronary Stents Using High-resolution Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging In Patients With Coronary Artery Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$217,274.00
Summary
A stent is a device made of metal that is placed inside an artery to prop it. Recently, the applicant introduced into Australia a novel technology to examine these stents once inside the body. This information may help make stents safer for patients
The superior colliculus is a brain centre which uses visual information from the eyes and other sensory information, such as sound, to direct the head and eyes towards objects of interest. This project will use current advancements in optogenetics to activate connections to this brain region in order to understand its role in coordinating head and eye movements. This will advance our understanding of how the brain collects and processes visual information to subserve behavioural functions.
Imaging Of Acute Ischemic Stroke – Improving Patient Selection For Thrombolysis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$367,946.00
Summary
Stroke is a major cause of death and disability in our community and is most often due to a blocked blood vessel. Powerful treatments are available to open blocked blood vessels but there are restrictions on eligibility and some risks. This research aims to improve doctors' understanding of stroke in the individual patient to aid treatment decisions by identifying those with potentially salvageable brain tissue and avoiding those with high risk of bleeding complications.
Improving Methodolgies For The Early Detection Of Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$317,860.00
Summary
Early detection of tumours and diseases is vital for an effective and successful treatment. Current early detection methods are invasive and use toxic or radioactive chemicals. This project focuses on understanding how non-toxic, non-invasive ‘smart’ polymeric devices would work for early disease detection. It will provide next generation early detection devices which will reduce the cost of treatment, and increase the effectiveness of therapy.
Functional Neuroimaging In Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$176,719.00
Summary
Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) represents a significant public health issue in Australian communities. Complications can include prolonged symptoms, depression and progressive deterioration of brain function. Clinical management of mTBI hinges on accurate assessment of recovery. The aim of the current study is to investigate the role of novel functional brain imaging techniques such as diffusion tensor imaging and connectivity studies, in the assessment of brain disturbance following mTBI.
The Clinical Features, Causes And Diagnosis Of Severe Epilepsies Of Infancy: A Population-based Study
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$227,261.00
Summary
Severe epilepsies of infancy (SEI) are characterised by frequent seizures and are often resistant to treatment. The prognosis is typically poor. The cause is unknown in many infants. This study will identify genes and brain malformations causing SEI, determine the frequency and clinical features of each cause, and measure the diagnostic yield of genetic testing and brain imaging. The findings will improve timely diagnosis of SEI and guide research priorities for development of novel therapies.