Electric field induced surface attachment and detachment of proteins. Microarrays are revolutionising the diagnosis of disease by enabling large amounts of data on genetics and protein expression to be obtained from one sample. Biosensors for diseases and toxins rely on the same mechanism, namely attachment of biological macromolecules to a surface. We propose a new method for controlling the attachment by micromachining an electrode system to apply an electric field to chosen sites. Ultimately ....Electric field induced surface attachment and detachment of proteins. Microarrays are revolutionising the diagnosis of disease by enabling large amounts of data on genetics and protein expression to be obtained from one sample. Biosensors for diseases and toxins rely on the same mechanism, namely attachment of biological macromolecules to a surface. We propose a new method for controlling the attachment by micromachining an electrode system to apply an electric field to chosen sites. Ultimately microelectronic engineering methods will be used. This will give control over the attachment process with potential benefits of orienting attaching molecules, minimising non-specific attachment and enriching diagnostics by enabling interrogation of the force of attachment.Read moreRead less
Engineering quantum-size bioceramics: Photocatalytic / sonocatalytic ceria. This project aims to design and engineer photocatalytic ceria of systematically controlled grain sizes and morphologies, using doping methods to achieve pure and mixed quantum confinement (which enhances performance). The intended outcomes of the computation, fabrication, and validation approach are a fundamental knowledge of the processing-performance matrix and reproducible photocatalysts of optimised performance. Whil ....Engineering quantum-size bioceramics: Photocatalytic / sonocatalytic ceria. This project aims to design and engineer photocatalytic ceria of systematically controlled grain sizes and morphologies, using doping methods to achieve pure and mixed quantum confinement (which enhances performance). The intended outcomes of the computation, fabrication, and validation approach are a fundamental knowledge of the processing-performance matrix and reproducible photocatalysts of optimised performance. While these ceramics will be applied as bioceramics, which can be activated by ultraviolet light, X-rays and ultrasound, the benefits will be applicable in energy (solar cells, photoelectrodes) and the environment (air and water purification).Read moreRead less
Methods To Improve Detail Reproduction Of Elastic Impression Materials
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$96,656.00
Summary
If a dental prosthesis is to fit precisely in the mouth, an accurate impression must be taken of the teeth and surrounding tissues. This research aims to evaluate variable surface conditions which may be taken into consideration to achieve an accurate impression, such as moisture, temperature, and the presence of contaminants. Although any distortions as a result of material interactions would be limited to the surface interface, inaccuracies here may ultimately compromise treatment success.
Soft carbon nanotube materials. There is no doubt that the realisation of new bionic materials will dramatically improve quality of life for many individuals. The new soft conducting materials proposed will impact on several areas of bionics, including the development of the next generation Bionic Ear, conduits for spinal cord regeneration as well as muscle regeneration and other applications. This project will further enhance the international profile of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Electro ....Soft carbon nanotube materials. There is no doubt that the realisation of new bionic materials will dramatically improve quality of life for many individuals. The new soft conducting materials proposed will impact on several areas of bionics, including the development of the next generation Bionic Ear, conduits for spinal cord regeneration as well as muscle regeneration and other applications. This project will further enhance the international profile of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science in the field of Bionics. The end-user network already in place will ensure all opportunities are fully exploited.Read moreRead less
Regulating Astrocytosis For Appropriate Defence And Repair Of The Brain After Injury
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$562,742.00
Summary
An inflammatory process, designed to clean up cell debris and maintain tissue integrity following brain insult, also results in an astrocytic scar that biochemically impedes nerve repair. After 8 weeks astrocytes switch to become supportive, however once a scar is formed repair is permanently inhibited. Here, we will test the ability of biomaterials to optimise the timing of the necessary inflammatory phase, to encourage repair by converting astrocytes to their tropic phase more rapidly.
Improving Therapeutic Delivery By Understanding Nanoparticle Interactions With Cells
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$553,152.00
Summary
Nanotechnology has the potential to transform the way we treat many diseases. This project will investigate how nanoengineered particles can be used to improve the effectiveness of vaccines. Nanoparticles can protect the delicate vaccine cargo from degradation, and will be targeted specifically to the cells in the body that most effectively induce the maximum theraputic response. This study will improve our understanding of how nanovaccines work and develop new ways of delivering vaccines.
Nanostructured Degradable Polymer for Drug Delivery. The success of synthesising nanostructured degradable polymers will position Australia at the world forefront in the field of nanotechnology, bioengineering and healthcare sectors in both fundamental and applied research. This multi-disciplinary research has the potential to generate patentable technologies with economic benefits to Australia. The project also involves fundamental research into surface chemistry, nanostructure, polymer science ....Nanostructured Degradable Polymer for Drug Delivery. The success of synthesising nanostructured degradable polymers will position Australia at the world forefront in the field of nanotechnology, bioengineering and healthcare sectors in both fundamental and applied research. This multi-disciplinary research has the potential to generate patentable technologies with economic benefits to Australia. The project also involves fundamental research into surface chemistry, nanostructure, polymer sciences and will be a meaningful contribution to the advancement of scientific knowledge in Australia. All these will enhance the international competitive profile of Australia in the field of nanotechnology for drug delivery.Read moreRead less
Treating Parkinson's Disease Dementia With Nanoscaffolds
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$665,144.00
Summary
Several diseases, including Parkinson’s disease (PD), result in dementia. Currently, pharmacological therapy is the only treatment for PD dementia, which only offers symptomatic relief with diminished efficacy. Therefore, there is a need to develop new strategies that prevent or slow the onset of dementia. This study will utilize nanoscaffolds that facilitate the controlled delivery of therapeutic proteins to prevent or slow the death of neurons associated with dementia in PD patients.
Tissue Engineering Approach To Musculoskeletal Regeneration
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$622,655.00
Summary
Over the next few decades there is an anticipated steady increase in surgical intervention for bone, cartilage and tendon damages due to trauma or osteoporosis as a consequence of an aging population. These damages cause chronic pain, immobility, restricted activities, and, sometimes, death and are a considerable financial burden to the Australian Health System.