A Bispecific Antibody To Synergise Checkpoint Blockers In Oncology
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$636,492.00
Summary
Cancer hides from the immune system in its earliest stages by evading immune surveillance and a cell type named myeloid derived suppressor cell (MDSC) has been identified as the main accomplice in this evasion. Currently, there is no drugs able to specifically target those cells. Here, we will develop a new drug that will prevent their recruitment to the tumors. We believe that when use in synergy with recent immunotherapies, it will dramatically improve survival in cancer patients.
Development Of A Humanised Antibody For Treatment Of Cancer And Stroke
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$242,800.00
Summary
This grant explores the ability of novel monoclonal antibodies to inhibit cancer cell growth, and to prevent complications in patients with brain injuries. The results of this work will enable the development of new strategies for antibody-based therapy of many types of cancer, and improve outcomes in patients suffering from acute stroke.
Development Of A Novel MicroRNA Mimic For Cancer Treatment
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$534,179.00
Summary
Liver cancer is a major health burden globally, with a very poor prognosis. New treatments are urgently needed. We have developed proof-of-concept data showing that a tiny RNA, called a microRNA, is a powerful inhibitor of liver cancer growth. We will use this grant application to further develop the microRNA with novel chemistry so that it can be readily translated into early phase clinical trials in the near future.
Non-invasive Therapy For Keratoconus – Ultrasound Enhanced Delivery Of Riboflavin To Cornea For Transepithelial Corneal Collagen Crosslinking
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$600,658.00
Summary
Keratoconus is a degenerative eye disease which causes corneal thinning. The disease causes visual distortions & loss of vision, and is commonly treated with Corneal Cross-Linking. This involves scraping off the outer protective layer of the cornea so that treatment can be applied. This is painful for patients and carries many risks. This grant assists in the development of a device that is able to deliver the reagent in a painless, non-invasive, effective and safe way.
Low-Cost Portable Inhalation Therapy Platform For Needle-Free DNA-Based Influenza Vaccination
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$524,644.00
Summary
Influenza affects a large proportion of the global population and can result in many deaths in a pandemic. A DNA influenza vaccine overcomes the possibility of severe side effects associated with commonly used vaccines based on weakened viruses and can be rapidly produced and easily transported without refrigeration. DNA vaccines are however unstable and difficult to deliver. We propose to address this with a low-cost and portable handheld device which allows the vaccine to simply be inhaled.
Achieving Targeted Delivery Of Drugs To Uterine Muscle In Women For The Prevention Of Preterm Labour
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$469,008.00
Summary
We have patented liposomes targeted to the uterus, which enable us to deliver drugs specifically to the muscle cells of the uterus, increasing safety. The liposomes can be loaded with drugs that either block or promote contractions, creating a versatile drug delivery system that could treat premature labour or postpartum haemorrhage which are major clinical problems. We seek support to demonstrate their effectiveness in mouse and primate models of preterm labour prior to human studies.