Contribution Of MDSC-derived Cysteine Cathepsins In Breast Cancer Metastasis To Bone
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$320,891.00
Summary
Cathepsins are enzymes called proteases that function to cleave specific proteins, a process that is important for many normal cellular functions. Aberrant cathepsin activity can result in a number of pathologies, including cancer and inflammation. We are developing tools called activity-based probes to study the function of cathepsins in disease. Specifically, we will investigate their activity within cells of the immune system with the goal of developing novel therapeutic approaches.
The Importance Of RUNX3 In Preventing Gastrointestinal Diseases And Tumour Metastasis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$113,322.00
Summary
Stomach cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. It is estimated that in 2010, more than 1 million people will die of stomach cancer with an increase of 19%. Studies have revealed that RUNX3 has the ability to suppress the growth of stomach cancer. However the role of RUNX3 in preventing metastasis is yet unknown. Therefore, an understanding of the factors that govern metastasis will inform the design of effective therapies to prevent mortality which is high for this disease.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-associated death in the world. We aim to understand why some CRC patients stop responding to EGFR therapy. In particular, we will study small molecules called cytokines that are produced by the tumour microenvironment and determine if the inhibition of these cytokines can over-come the acquired resistance to therapy. Our goal is to identify new ways to improve the current treatment options for CRC patients.
ADAM Metalloprotease Inhibition For Treatment Of Colorectal Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$770,925.00
Summary
Colorectal cancer (CRC) causes over 4000 deaths/year, typically from developing drug resistance and spreading to other organs (metastasis). These processes involve tumour cells called cancer stem cells (CSCs), which rely on specific cell surface proteins for survival and function. We are developing antibodies against one of these type of proteins, to test in mouse models of CRC. These already show promise in targeting CSCs and inhibiting drug-resistance and metastasis in mice.
Using Mouse Models To Identify Better Therapies For Acute Leukemia And Myelodysplasia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Summary
Despite great advances in the understanding of the genes that cause cancers of the blood, cure rates for patients with acute leukemia, or a more indolent form called myelodyspslaia, has not improved significantly over the last 20 years, with the majority of patients dying from resistant or recurrent disease within 5 years. Our research will use mouse models of acute leukemia and myelodysplasia to identify the critical genetic pathways that drive these diseases and to design and test new therapie ....Despite great advances in the understanding of the genes that cause cancers of the blood, cure rates for patients with acute leukemia, or a more indolent form called myelodyspslaia, has not improved significantly over the last 20 years, with the majority of patients dying from resistant or recurrent disease within 5 years. Our research will use mouse models of acute leukemia and myelodysplasia to identify the critical genetic pathways that drive these diseases and to design and test new therapies that can be taken into clinical trials.Read moreRead less
Role Of Lamin A-C In Osteoblastogenesis And Age-related Bone Loss
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$475,515.00
Summary
Osteoporosis prevalence in Australia has increased, especially in the older population. Patients with accelerated aging (Hutchinson Gilford) suffer from severe osteoporosis. A mutation in lamin A-C was identified as the cause of this disease. Therefore it could be the link between aging and bone loss. We will identify the role of lamin in bone biology. We will generate a new understanding of the connection between aging and bone loss and a new potential therapeutic target for senile osteoporosis
Inhibiting Tumour Growth By Targeting EphA3 And Disrupting Tumour Stromal And Vascular Microenvironment
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$645,136.00
Summary
Tumours consist of cancer cells, tumour blood vessels and connective tissue, all of which are different to normal tissues. Many of the cells making up tumour vessels and connective tissue are recruited, during initial growth and subsequent spreading of tumours, from the bone marrow. Our research will examine the presence and function of the EphA3 receptor on these cells during tumour development and assess how our anti-EphA3 antibody inhibits tumour growth by targeting stroma and vasculature.