A Cluster RCT Of A Novel Psychological Intervention To Reduce Depression Among At-risk Older Adults Transitioning To Residential Aged Care
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$893,152.00
Summary
Depression is common in aged care facilities, with many older adults finding the transition extremely difficult. We have developed a simple intervention to help new residents, including those with dementia, to adjust to life in aged care. This program focuses on key aspects of psychological wellbeing, and is designed for widespread use in aged care. We will evaluate the intervention to determine if it is superior to current care approaches in reducing depression and improving quality of life.
Quantifying The Role Of Epigenetic Factors In Neurocognitive Outcomes: A Twin Study
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,516,790.00
Summary
We aim to identify the environmental factors in early life that contribute towards an individual brain development using MRI brain scans and related psychological skills measured in late childhood. We are using twins to better understand differences in their early life environments independent of genetics.
Large-scale Data To Understand Person-centred Outcomes In Cancer Survivors
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,163,471.00
Summary
Although the majority of people with cancer in Australia now survive long-term, little is known about long-term “person-centred outcomes” for cancer survivors - including mental health, disability, pain and quality of life. This project will use data from >70,000 cancer survivors and >190,000 people without cancer from the general population to generate new knowledge on person-centred outcomes, for different cancer types and over time, to inform and improve health and healthcare.
RZR-alpha In The Control Of Proliferative Vascular Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$521,706.00
Summary
Four million Australians have cardiovascular disease accounting for 35% of all deaths. CVD is the most expensive disease burden and a National Health Priority. Smooth muscle cell growth is a cause of CVD. However, the mechanisms controlling SMC hyperplasia are poorly understood. This project will provide key insights on the role of RZR-alpha in the pathogenesis of blood vessel disease, and develop novel gene-targeting approaches for new opportunities to control complications of CVD.
Improving Outcomes For People With Depression In Community Settings: A Cluster RCT
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$803,554.00
Summary
Depression affects 350 million people worldwide. Given the pivotal role of primary care in the management of depression, effective strategies are needed to assist GPs in the delivery of patient-centred depression care. This study will test the effectiveness of providing GPs with education; as well as feedback about patients’ self-reported depressive scores using a standardised instrument and perceived need and preferences for help. This cluster RCT will be the first Australian trial of its kind.
Preventing Relapse Of Major Depressive Disorder In Youth: RCT Of A Novel Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Online Social Therapy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,713,093.00
Summary
Youth depression is a serious illness that will afflict one in four young people. Despite the initial effectiveness of modern treatments, 52% to 85% of young people with depression will suffer repeated depressive episodes. The recurrence of youth depression makes it the greatest cause of disability during youth worldwide. The aim of this project is to assess the effectiveness of a novel mindfulness-based cognitive online social media intervention in preventing relapse in youth depression.
Therapeutic Potential Of Transforming Growth Factor-beta Proteins For The Diagnosis And Treatment Of Female Infertility
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$942,961.00
Summary
We discovered and manufactured a growth factor produced uniquely by the egg. We named this growth factor cumulin. It is a powerful regulator of ovarian function and egg quality. This project will study the basic mechanisms of how cumulin works in the ovary. We will then develop an assay to measure it as a biomarker of human egg quality and quantity. New approaches in fertility preservation for cancer survivors will be developed using cumulin.
Mapping The TNF Pathway: A Qualitative And Quantative Molecular Analysis Of The Components And Post-translational Modifications Involved In Physiological And Pathological TNFR1 Signalling
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$636,258.00
Summary
TNF is a master regulator of the inflammation response and dysregulated TNF signalling causes many human diseases. We will use a cutting edge mass spectrometry technique that we have developed to analyse molecules required for TNF signalling. Understanding how the TNF signalling works in all cell types and with different forms of ligands will open up therapeutic opportunities to selectively target TNF signalling in inflammatory diseases, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and Cancer.
Activation Of GDF9 Regulates Human Folliculogenesis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$531,690.00
Summary
GDF9 is a key regulator of fertility in female mammals, as it controls the process of folliculogenesis. In this grant, we will demonstrate the importance of GDF9 in human folliculogenesis, determine the mechanisms that activate GDF9 and show why aberrant GDF9 activation leads to ovarian disorders. Collectively, the outcomes of this proposal will increase our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms that regulate ovarian folliculogenesis and provide new avenues to manipulate this process.
Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) is a debilitating psychological condition that affects at least 10% of bereaved people. There is limited knowledge on treating PGD. At present only 50% of affected people benefit from the treatment of choice. This project will test an augmented treatment that attempts to increase the efficacy of treatment for bereaved people suffering PGD. This program will shape more effective programs for assisting the 100's of thousands of Australians who suffer PGD.