The Bcl-2 family of proteins is crucial for apoptosis (a form of programmed cell death) regulation. They target the mitochondrial outer membrane where they interact to determine cell fate. We will evaluate the membrane interactions of the Bcl-2 proteins in complementary biophysical and cellular experiments to redefine our understanding of the mechanism of apoptosis and provide new avenues for the development of compounds to selectively modulate diseases in which apoptosis is unregulated.
Myo1b Bridges The Actin-membrane Interface During Osteoclastic Bone Resorption
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$429,387.00
Summary
Osteoporosis is a debilitating bone disease which features progressive bone loss. Bone loss (resorption) is driven by the bone resident cell the osteoclast. Identifying molecules that regulate bone resorption by osteoclasts is a crucial first step towards developing new targets for theraputic intervention. This proposal explores the role of Myo1b, a novel protein that appears to facilitate osteoclastic bone resorption and thus represents an attractive new candidate to target bone loss.
Mechanism Of Bacterial Resistance To Antimicrobial Peptides
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$675,585.00
Summary
Bacterial resistance to antibiotics continues to emerge and intensify. While antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising alternative to current antibiotics, bacteria have also evolved resistance mechanisms to them through changes in their cell membrane. This application will apply a range of analytical and biophysical tools to understand how bacteria change their cell walls in response to AMPs. The results will allow us to design new combination therapies to treat bacterial infections.