A Novel Role For Proteolysis In Promoting Inner Ear Cell Injury And Hearing Loss
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$972,818.00
Summary
Nearly 40% of hearing loss is attributable to traumatic noise exposure. This project will test a new idea that cells in the inner ear are damaged and die via noise-induced proteolysis, and investigate whether a similar mechanism operates during age-related hearing loss. It will open new avenues for therapies to preserve hearing where trauma is unavoidable, or has occurred through accident or incident.
Investigating The Role Of SERPINB6 In Cochlear Function And Deafness
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$570,803.00
Summary
In 2010 a novel genetic mutation was identified that causes progressive hearing loss in humans, however, it was not established why this mutation leads to the disease. We propose that the mutation renders cells of the inner ear more susceptible to death caused by noise trauma. We will investigate this in a mouse model of the human condition. This could lead to the development of therapies that prevent hearing loss.
Mechanisms Responsible For Pancreatic Beta Cell Death And Dysfunction
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$314,644.00
Summary
Diabetes is the fastest growing chronic disease both in Australia and worldwide. Current treatments are lacking effectiveness. Therefore, there is an urgent need to revolutionise diabetes therapy. Diabetes is caused by the failure of cells within the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin, resulting in uncontrolled blood sugar levels. This research proposal aims to investigate the processes and factors leading to this phenomenon in order to develop new strategies to overcome them.
Cancer is constantly being suppressed in our bodies by a process that stops damaged cells from growing: 'senescence'. The mechanism that translates the damage stimuli into this state of permanent cell arrest is only partially known. We have identified a protein that appears to drive this restraint. The possibility of manipulating this process to prevent and cure cancer makes it in important target to study.
The role of a novel protein, interferon epsilon, in reproductive tract immunity. This project aims to develop a world-first description of a new protein that has a protective role against female reproductive tract infections. This unique protein, called interferon epsilon, was discovered in our laboratory. This project will facilitate development of new therapeutic approaches of benefit in diseases such as Chlamydia and Herpes Simplex Virus.