Mechanism Of Interaction Of VWC Domains And Consequence For Protein Function
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$516,803.00
Summary
More than 1000 proteins contain a type of module known as the VWC domain. These domains are discreet sections of the protein that are very important for how the protein works. Proteins containing this domain are involved in normal functioning of the human body and in diseases of the nervous system and blood, among others. The main function of the VWC domain is to link proteins together in complexes. How this is achieved is not known and is what we aim to discover.
Insulin-regulated Aminopeptidase, Glucose And Memory
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$555,693.00
Summary
We have previously shown that inhibitors of IRAP improve performance in memory tasks in normal and memory impaired animals and are currently developing new treatments for memory loss using IRAP as a target. In this study, we will investigate the physiological roles of IRAP and its association with intracellular proteins. The knowledge obtained will provide insights of how the brain process memory and confirm the suitability of IRAP inhibitors as drugs for treating memory deficits.
Function Of The S100A1 Ca2+-binding Protein Under Physiological And Pathological Conditions
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$452,545.00
Summary
The S100A1 protein is one of the most abundant proteins in human heart muscle cells. It binds calcium ions and may play a role in the regulation of heart function. S100A1 levels are reduced in human heart failure, but it is unclear whether this reduction contributes to worsening of the disease. To study this, we have generated a genetically modified mouse strain that cannot make the S100A1 protein. We will use these mice to study how important the protein is for heart function under normal condi ....The S100A1 protein is one of the most abundant proteins in human heart muscle cells. It binds calcium ions and may play a role in the regulation of heart function. S100A1 levels are reduced in human heart failure, but it is unclear whether this reduction contributes to worsening of the disease. To study this, we have generated a genetically modified mouse strain that cannot make the S100A1 protein. We will use these mice to study how important the protein is for heart function under normal conditions, and how it contributes to the development of heart failure. Preliminary data indicate that adult mice with reduced S100A1 protein levels develop a form of heart disease that significantly reduces the efficiency of the pump function of the heart.Read moreRead less
Characterisation Of Novel Cilia Proteins And Roles In Human Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$339,410.00
Summary
Cilia and flagella are tiny hair-like structures attached to the surface of most cells in the body. They perform different roles in many different organs including the brain and play key roles in our sensory systems. This project aims to identify and characterise components of cilia in order to better understand the causes of disorders where the cilia do not function properly.