High throughput engineering of genetically encodable fluorescent sensors of intracellular signalling networks. Understanding of biochemical processes in living organisms is central to biological research and drug discovery. At present, the field suffers from a chronic paucity of adequate observation methods. The proposed project represents an interdisciplinary effort to create approaches for real-time monitoring of complex cellular chemistries. This work will deliver novel technologies for use i ....High throughput engineering of genetically encodable fluorescent sensors of intracellular signalling networks. Understanding of biochemical processes in living organisms is central to biological research and drug discovery. At present, the field suffers from a chronic paucity of adequate observation methods. The proposed project represents an interdisciplinary effort to create approaches for real-time monitoring of complex cellular chemistries. This work will deliver novel technologies for use in diagnostics and drug development. It will provide vital information on the changes in cellular processes induced by malignant transformation, viral infection and aging. This work will generate both health and economic benefits for the community and have a positive impact on the international visibility of Australian biomedical research.Read moreRead less
Membrane interactions and neurotoxicity of Amyloid Abeta peptides from Alzheimer's disease. A consequence of the increase in human life span is that age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) are more prevalent. Currently there are limited therapeutic treatments and no cure for AD. The key protein causing AD is Abeta and characterization of the toxic species of this peptide is critical towards identifying potential therapeutic targets. This proposal aims to study mut ....Membrane interactions and neurotoxicity of Amyloid Abeta peptides from Alzheimer's disease. A consequence of the increase in human life span is that age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) are more prevalent. Currently there are limited therapeutic treatments and no cure for AD. The key protein causing AD is Abeta and characterization of the toxic species of this peptide is critical towards identifying potential therapeutic targets. This proposal aims to study mutant peptides made synthetically and to identify a membrane-binding site. By establishing which lipid is critically involved in membrane binding of Abeta and mediating subsequent cell death, drugs may be developed to prevent the binding of Abeta to membranes resulting in neuronal survival and prevention of memory loss in AD patients.Read moreRead less