Generating multi-component scaffolding to influence the differentiation of embryonic stem cells. Nervous system diseases are debilitating and will develop in over 50 per cent of people at some time in their life. This project will develop strategies so that stem cells can be utilised to encourage brain repair for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. The technology developed will also be of benefit for the treatment of other nervous system disorders.
How ribosomal protein loss affects cell fate. This project aims to challenge the dogma that the ribosome behaves only as a ‘‘house-keeper’’. Ribosomal protein (RP) mutations should, and often do, result in reduced cell growth and stunted animal development. Depletion of RPs in Drosophila blood cells impair stem cells and cause massive tissue overgrowth. This suggests RPs are involved in cell fate determination, which this project will research using genetic models. As ribosomal function is funda ....How ribosomal protein loss affects cell fate. This project aims to challenge the dogma that the ribosome behaves only as a ‘‘house-keeper’’. Ribosomal protein (RP) mutations should, and often do, result in reduced cell growth and stunted animal development. Depletion of RPs in Drosophila blood cells impair stem cells and cause massive tissue overgrowth. This suggests RPs are involved in cell fate determination, which this project will research using genetic models. As ribosomal function is fundamental to the development of all living organisms, this work could have wide implications for understanding all biology – from microbes, insects and plants to humans.Read moreRead less
Mediator: a new concept for controlled gene expression in plant biotechnology. The Mediator protein complex is a new control point for the activation of all genes in higher organisms and the purpose of this project is to understand how three Mediator subunits regulate disease resistance in plants. The outcomes provide a new concept to direct natural gene expression towards robust crop plants able to cope with climatic variations.