Biomarkers Of Phenotype, Prognosis And Response To Therapy In Pancreatic Cancer.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$105,845.00
Summary
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is the 4th leading cause of cancer deaths in our society. This research is aimed at the discovery of novel biomarkers with the ability to forecast prognosis and response to treatments in patients with PC. Ultimately, this will lead to the “individualisation” of the treatment for each patient, so that the most appropriate therapy could be given to an individual patient. This would significantly improve the overall survival and the quality of life for patients.
The Role Of FHL Proteins In The Pathology Of Muscular Dystrophies: Identification Of Novel Therapeutic Targets
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$61,355.00
Summary
Scientists at Monash University have recently identified a protein called FHL1 which promotes skeletal muscle repair-growth and may reverse the muscle degeneration seen in inherited muscular dystrophies. This study will investigate whether FHL1 expression can improve muscle mass in mouse models of muscular dystropy. In doing so, this research improve out understanding of the molecular processes that cause muscular dystrophies and thereby lead the way to new therapies for this family of diseases.
Transient Receptor Potential Calcium Channels In Breast Cancer Cell Proliferation, Apoptosis And Invasiveness
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$104,018.00
Summary
Calcium is a highly regulated signal used by cells to control processes such as growth and division, cell death and motility. Calcium channels let calcium into the cells, and specific calcium channel types are overexpressed in cancers, including those of the prostate and breast. In this research, we will assess the role of specific calcium permeable channels known as TRPs in breast cancer and the consequences of their inhibition on breast cancer cell growth and survival.
The Effects Of Estrogen-Responsive B Box Protein On Retinoid Sensitivity In Cancer And Its Significance In Development
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$82,421.00
Summary
Although effective, many cancer drugs often lead to side effects, especially in children. New therapies are needed that specifically target cancer cells while leaving normal cells unaffected. I am studying a novel protein (EBBP) which I believe has an important role in cancer cell growth. By studying EBBP I aim to be able to increase the effectiveness of the low toxic chemotherapy retinoic acid without increased side effects, as well as understand the functional role of EBBP in cancer cells.
Molecular Mechanisms That Mediate The Anti-osteosarcoma Properties Of Pigment Epithelium-derived Factor (PEDF)
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$123,453.00
Summary
Cancer results from a sequence of alterations to genes which lead to abnormal cells dividing without control. Osteosarcoma is a cancer involving bone and can rapidly spread to surrounding and distant tissues. A number of mediators have been identified as being able to provide some regulation of this abnormal cell division. Pigment epithelium-derived factor is one such protein and further understanding of how it achieves this could be used for the development of targeted osteosarcoma treatment.