Thyroid hormones are regulators of development and metabolism. The lack of concordance of thyroid function and disease in identical twins suggests that environmental effects have a significant role. Quantifying epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, has the potential to identify causal effects from the environment. This research will provide a comprehensive database of DNA methylome alterations that will contribute important insights into thyroid function in health and disease.
Thyroid cancer is the commonest endocrine malignancy, and typically affects younger adults. Despite low mortality rates, local recurrence is not uncommon and re-operative surgery can cause significant morbidity. We are studying genetic variants in thyroid transcription factors associated with thyroid cancer predisposition. Our work will determine the mechanism of this association, and provide new strategies for early diagnosis and prevention of thyroid cancer.
Identification Of Genetic Variants Regulating Thyroid Function In Health And Disease By Next Generation Sequencing
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$316,433.00
Summary
Small differences in thyroid function are associated with important clinical outcomes including longevity and cardiovascular disease. We recently completed a Genome Wide Association Study and identified a novel locus associated with blood levels of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone. In this project we will extend that research to study rare genetic variants and examine their association with thyroid function in health and disease.
Understanding The Role Of RAS Mutations In Thyroid Cancer.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$463,854.00
Summary
My fellowship will examine the association of RAS mutations in thyroid cancer. RAS proteins are the most mutated in cancer and I will investigate how they work in thyroid cancer. RAS mutated thyroid cancer is more likely to cause death. This grant will be based in the pioneering lab of Prof Fagin at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the Garvan Institute of Medical Research. It is hoped by understanding these mutations, new treatments for thyroid cancer can be developed.