The Collagen-rich Matrix As A Driver Of Breast Cancer Progression And Resistance To Therapy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$702,230.00
Summary
The extracellular matrix or 'matrix' surrounds all cells and is very important in controlling cell behaviour. In cancer, the matrix is dramatically altered, making cancer more aggressive. We recently developed a new way to study the matrix in breast cancer, and have analysed the matrix at different stages (Early/Mid/Late). We have uncovered exciting new matrix targets associated with more aggressive tumours. This project will validate their potential as therapeutic targets in breast cancer.
Harnessing Extracellular Matrix Remodelling By Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts To Increase T Cell Infiltration Of Solid Tumours
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$923,407.00
Summary
The ability of killer T cells to find and eliminate tumour cells is the basis for adoptive transfer immunotherapies, which thus far only work well with blood-borne cancers. There is limited success with solid tumours, which T cells do not readily infiltrate, notably because of remodelling by fibroblasts. We have discovered that T cells migrate in tunnels dug in the tumour matrix by fibroblasts. Here, we will harness this discovery to improve tumour infiltration and rejection of solid tumours.
This project will develop a smart bone healing gel to bridge fragments of bone defects leading to stem cell recruitment, reduced inflammation, and blood supply for fracture healing. The design of the smart bone healing gel is based on the structures and properties of functional tissue healing hematoma in wound healing.
This study aims to elucidate central pathways which can be manipulated to drive the storage of excess energy away from fat and instead directing it into the production of bone mass. Having identified leptin-responsive NPY neurons as important in the control of energy partitioning, we will focus on manipulating these neurons in the hypothalamus using innovative technology to alter body composition. This research has the potential to result in novel treatments for obesity and osteoporosis.
Sickle Cell Disease was the first molecular disease described in man, and is the most prevalent. In some African countries, India and the Middle East, up to 20% of the population carry the sickle gene mutation. In developing countries, 90% of children die before 5 years of age. In developed countries, patients suffer a lifetime of chronic pain and die ~20 years early. We will employ new gene editing approaches to repair the mutation or recruit fetal hemoglobin to cure SCD in human samples.
Casting The Net: A New Approach To Identify Therapeutics To Treat Type-2 Diabetes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,068,283.00
Summary
The discovery of treatments for type-2 diabetes (T2D) is a national health priority. In T2D, cells in the brain become 'insulin resistant' resulting in dangerously high blood sugar levels. There are no treatments for brain insulin resistance. The extracellular structures that surround brain cells undergo change in T2D, resulting in insulin resistance. By furthering understanding of these extracellular brain structures, this proposal will identify new drug targets to treat T2D.