The Vestibulo-collic Reflex In Humans And Its Use In Diagnosis Of Vertigo
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$278,691.00
Summary
This project will investigate the vestibulo-collic reflex (VCR): a head-stabilising reflex of the neck muscles. The VCR plays an important role in human balance, but is not well-understood. A form of the reflex is used to test vestibular (balance) function in patients with dizziness and vertigo, however the accuracy and interpretation of the test as it is currently used is not optimal. This project aims to improve the accuracy of the VCR in the diagnosis of balance disorders.
Neural Control Of Behavioural State And Cognition - Role Of Nucleus Incertus And Relaxin-3
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$600,771.00
Summary
Dementia and mental illness are significant social and economic burdens worldwide and knowledge of underlying causes and more effective therapies are required. Our research is using preclinical models to characterize a little studied neural network in the control of arousal states, rhythmic brain activity, and learning and memory. Our findings could advance the development of improved treatments for cognitive deficits in degenerative, age-related and psychiatric disorders.
Characterising The Topology And Function Of The Human M5C RNA Methylome
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$602,537.00
Summary
The role of the modified base 5-methylcytosine (m5C) as an epigenetic mark in DNA is well appreciated and intensely studied. By comparison, the cellular functions of the same base modification in RNA molecules, which function as working copies of the DNA genome, are poorly understood. This project will apply next generation sequencing technology to chart the occurrence of m5C in eukaryotic cellular RNAs and endeavour to unravel its function(s) in human biology and cancer.