Epithelial cell surface mucins are large complex proteins found on the surface of all mucosal epithelial tissues, for example in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, reproductive and urinary tracts. Most bacterial and viral pathogens enter the body via mucosal tissues. We have recently demonstrated that mucin proteins are a vital component of initial defence against mucosal pathogens. Defects in these proteins probably predispose individuals to common chronic infective and inflammatory diseases. T ....Epithelial cell surface mucins are large complex proteins found on the surface of all mucosal epithelial tissues, for example in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, reproductive and urinary tracts. Most bacterial and viral pathogens enter the body via mucosal tissues. We have recently demonstrated that mucin proteins are a vital component of initial defence against mucosal pathogens. Defects in these proteins probably predispose individuals to common chronic infective and inflammatory diseases. The proposed research aims to explore the mechanims by which mucins protect from infection, with a focus on the gastrointestinal tract. Gastrointestinal infections remain one of the major causes of mortality in children in undeveloped countries. We believe that these proteins are a critical hereto unrecognised element of immunity and that the proposed studies will have broad significance for treatment and prevention of infection. Additionally, understanding the function of mucins could lead to the development of new drugs to treat epithelial inflammation such as that seen in inflammatory bowel diseases and respiratory diseases such as asthma and cystic fibrosis.Read moreRead less
The Role Of The ABCA12 Transporter In Epidermal Lipid Homeostasis And Atherosclerosis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$516,401.00
Summary
We have shown that a protein called Abca12 can control the transport of lipids in our bodies. If the function of this gene is attenuated both human and mice develop severe skin disease. Our preliminary results indicate the Abca12 protein regulates cholesterol transport in particular, and this grant will investigate how this might affect normal skin function and contribute to the heart disease atherosclerosis, one of the most common causes of death in the western world.
Developing The Epidemiological Evidence Base For Eczema Prevention
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$476,728.00
Summary
Eczema, food allergy, asthma and hay-fever are all common conditions that are a substantial burden for individuals and families. To prevent them, we need to know their causes, but these are not yet well understood. We need better studies to identify what is causing our children to develop these allergic diseases, and rigorous studies to prevent them. In this fellowship, I will explore the causes and consequences of these conditions and test ways to prevent children from developing them.
Simulating And Stimulating The Blood-Brain-Barrier: A Platform For Investigating Non-pharmaceutical Alzheimer's Therapy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$680,758.00
Summary
Alzheimer's disease is a looming public health threat worldwide. Despite the widespread acknowledgement of this issue, there are a lack of effective drugs that can slow disease progression. This project aims to investigate a new class of non-pharmaceutical treatment methods based on controlled acoustic, electrical and optical stimulation methods to treat and reverse the base causes of Alzheimer's disease.
The Interactive Effects Of Dietary Saturated Fat And Apolipoprotein-E Genotype On Peripheral Metabolism Of Lipoprotein-amyloid And Neurovascular Integrity.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$637,536.00
Summary
This project is based on a remarkable discovery which suggests that in some individuals, Alzheimer's disease may be a consequence of corruption of microscopic blood vessels that supply brain, damaged as a consequence of exaggerated exposure in blood to a protein produced principally in liver. The project will explore this pathway further in subjects at heightened risk of Alzheimer's disease and in humanised animal models. The findings may provide new opportunities for prevention and treatment.
The Role Of SPARC In Regeneration And Neurogenesis In The Central Nervous System.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$324,870.00
Summary
Stroke is a leading cause of disability in the elderly. Although the brain has built-in mechanisms for repairing itself, these processes are slow and incomplete. We are investigating how these natural repair mechanisms work and how to stimulate them to improve recovery. Our initial results suggest that a protein called SPARC, which is involved in wound healing outside the nervous system, may be able to recruit new nerve cells and blood vessels to damaged brain tissue.
Improving Clinical Translation In Stroke: Targeting Cerebral Oedema In A Large Animal Model
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$637,530.00
Summary
A common and life-threatening complication of stroke is brain swelling which is the leading cause of death within one week of stroke and a predictor of poor outcome. Current treatments for brain swelling are inadequate. We have developed a drug that blocks the action of the neuropeptide substance P, which is involved in the development of swelling. We will assess the efficacy of this treatment to reduce brain swelling and improve long-term outcome in a relevant pre-clinical model of stroke.