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Investigating MicroRNAs As Key Regulators In A Novel Communication Pathway Driving Retinal Degeneration.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,189,692.00
Summary
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the developed world. The absence of current therapies has resulted in a significant economic burden associated with this debilitating and irreversible disease. This project will investigate the therapeutic potential of the body's own natural delivery vehicles called extracellular vesicles (EV). Along with the molecular cargo contained in EVs we will harness this as a treatment to slow down the progression of AMD.
The Role Of Purines In Age Related Macular Degeneration
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$682,434.00
Summary
Age Related Macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindess. In this project we will examine a possible cause for the development and progression of early AMD. In particular we will determine whether signaling of immune cells via receptors called purinergic receptors influences the removal of cellular debris as we age, predisposing people to the disease.
Novel Photoreceptor Bioenergetics: Basic Science And Clinical Translation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$701,088.00
Summary
In this project we will investigate how the light-sensitive cells in the eye (the photoreceptors) use energy and make special pigments that convert light to electrical signals. We will test novel treatments that enhance the energy supply of the photoreceptors in individuals with age-related macular degeneration.
Novel Mechanisms Of Early Age Related Macular Degeneration
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$933,953.00
Summary
Age Related Macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness in Australia. In this project we will examine a novel mechanism by which the cells at the back of the eye, called retinal pigment eptihelial cells contribute to vision loss early in the disease. In addition we will examine the potential for two currently used drugs as well as a novel laser treatment in slowing the progression of disease.
The Role Of Estrogen Signalling In The Development And Progress Of Neovascularisation In Macular Degeneration
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$318,768.00
Summary
Age-related macular degeneration is a common eye disease. In the advanced stages of the disease, abnormal and leaky blood vessels form, causing permanent and severe vision loss. A novel treatment is the application of the sex hormone, estrogen, which could halt abnormal blood vessel growth in the eye. This project aims to confirm the protective effects of estrogen on eye health and whether mutations in estrogen-related genes alter the risk of vision loss due to abnormal blood vessel growth.
The Role Of Microglia In Regulating Photoreceptor Integrity
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$556,405.00
Summary
This project will examine a novel way that photoreceptors in the eye are regulated. In particular, the communication between resident immune cells and photoreceptors will be examined. The results will form an important foundation on which to develop novel treatments for diseases like Age Related Macular Degeneration.
Abnormalities in cells at the back of the eye called photoreceptors are associated with at least 50% of all cases of blindness in this country.This project will examine a novel mechanism of photoreceptor death. In particular, whether abnormalties in support cells at the back of the eye cause photoreceptors to lose contact with their nutrient source and die.
Understanding the structure of the human retina is important for understanding normal visual function. The goal of this study is to supply data on the distribution, density and connectivity of nerve cells in the human retina. Our study will provide a foundation for areas of clinical investigation of the human retina.
A Study Of The Role Of Voltage-gated Potassium Channels In The Process Of Phototransduction, In The Setting Of Photoreceptor Sensitivity Levels And Response Times, And In The Progression Of A Distinctive Form Of Inherited Retinal Dystrophy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$360,371.00
Summary
Inherited retinal disease is a major cause of blindness but the genetic basis is extremely heterogeneous. One such disorder, cone dystrophy with supernormal rod ERG, arises from mutations in KCNV2 that encodes a potassium voltage-gated channel protein. The objective of the project is to use animal models of the disease to determine the role of this channel protein in normal visual function and to assess the impact of loss of function on retinal development and function.