Exploring Non-canonical Roles For The Ribosomal RNA Genes Critical For Malignant Transformation And Cell Fate
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,972,669.00
Summary
Genes are encoded by linear DNA sequences, and whether they are expressed or silenced will depend on modifications and 3D interactions with other genomic regions. We aim to identify genes that interact with the a subnuclear body called the nucleolus during cancer development and differentiation. Understanding how these 3D genomic interactions are altered for the coordinated expression of a suite of genes may provide the basis for novel strategies to manipulate gene expression in disease.
Impact Of Fetal Growth Restriction On Skeletal Muscle Development, Mitochondrial Biogenesis And The Effect Of Exercise.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$58,182.00
Summary
Being born small is associated with the development of adult diseases. Mitochondria generate energy within cells and impaired function is implicated in disease development. This project aims to define the impact of fetal growth restriction on skeletal muscle development and mitochondrial function in early life and the responsiveness to lifestyle interventions such as improved nutrition and exercise. The outcomes could provide the rationale for clinical and subsequent intervention trials.
Novel Regulation Of RDNA Transcription By MTOR/S6K Signalling
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$393,750.00
Summary
Increased cellular growth requires a number of important processes to occur, the most fundamental of which is protein synthesis. Successful synthesis of proteins requires a large number of efficient ribosomes, the protein synthesis machinery. mTOR is a central cellular signalling molecule that directly regulates growth via modulating the efficiency of the ribosomes. It does this by regulating an enzyme called S6 kinase. Interestingly for long term or sustained increases in the rates of growth an ....Increased cellular growth requires a number of important processes to occur, the most fundamental of which is protein synthesis. Successful synthesis of proteins requires a large number of efficient ribosomes, the protein synthesis machinery. mTOR is a central cellular signalling molecule that directly regulates growth via modulating the efficiency of the ribosomes. It does this by regulating an enzyme called S6 kinase. Interestingly for long term or sustained increases in the rates of growth an increase in the number of ribosomes in addition to an increase efficiency of protein synthesis is required. This proposal will test the hypothesis that the mTOR-S6 kinase signalling pathway regulates protein synthesis both at the level of ribosome efficiency and capacity. This will be extended to determine the mechanism by which such regulation occurs. Furthermore recent studies have demonstrated that S6 kinase is involved in tumor growth. We propose that S6 kinase will contribute to the regulation of both normal or tumor growth at least in part via modulation of the number of ribosomes. Accordingly, S6K is upregulated in a segregated proportion of breast tumors. Outcomes from this project have the potential to provide targets to which specific therapies for particular breast tumors can be developed. Overall this information will also extend our basic knowledge on normal growth regulation.Read moreRead less