Targeting The Inflammasome To Treat ANCA Associated Glomerulonephritis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$122,686.00
Summary
Anti neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) vasculitis is a type of kidney disease which causes significant morbidity and mortality in the Australian population. Current treatments are toxic and are associated with significant side-effects. This research focusses on a pathway of immune activation which is of emerging importance, called the inflammasome, which may be a target for future therapies in this disease.
The Pathogenesis Of PR3-ANCA Associated Vasculitis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$128,224.00
Summary
ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a rare but severe cause of autoimmune renal disease, which can lead to renal failure and death. Our research and understanding of AAV until now has been largely limited to MPO-AAV. This proposal provides a unique opportunity to further understand PR3-AAV by utilising a new mouse model of the disease. This knowledge will inform further research regarding therapeutic targets, thereby improving care of patients affected by PR3-AAV.
Long Term Sequelae Of Acute Kidney Injury: Identifying The Optimal Model Of Care And Intervention To Enhance Patient Outcome
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$128,224.00
Summary
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with significant morbidity, mortality and health care costs. It is increasingly recognised as a key driver of progressive kidney disease, and no intervention has been shown to improve the long-term outcome of AKI survivors. This project identifies risk factors for chronic kidney disease, dialysis dependence and death after an episode of AKI, and examines the feasibility, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness of early nephrology review in high risk individuals.
End Stage Kidney Disease In The Elderly: Understanding Patient-Centred Outcomes To Improve Delivery Of Renal Services
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$122,774.00
Summary
There are an increasing number of elderly Australians with kidney failure. Some of these people choose to have dialysis whilst others do not. There is little evidence on which to base this decision and a lack of dedicated services for patients who choose not to have dialysis. This research aims to understand the complete experience of older kidney failure patients by examining survival, quality of life, symptom burden, impact on carers and factors behind treatment decisions. It will also explore ....There are an increasing number of elderly Australians with kidney failure. Some of these people choose to have dialysis whilst others do not. There is little evidence on which to base this decision and a lack of dedicated services for patients who choose not to have dialysis. This research aims to understand the complete experience of older kidney failure patients by examining survival, quality of life, symptom burden, impact on carers and factors behind treatment decisions. It will also explore the effect of specialised services on outcomes.Read moreRead less
The Effect Of Renal Transplantation And Extended Hours Haemodialysis On Cardiac MRI And Biomarkers.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$107,750.00
Summary
Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Asymptomatic patients demonstrate changes in cardiac imaging and elevation of cardiac biomarkers which predict outcome. This study will investigate serial cardiac imaging and cardiac biomarkers in patients undergoing live donor renal transplantation and extended hours haemodialysis. Results will enhance our understanding of cardiovascular disease in CKD leading to improved patient outcomes.
Understanding The Interplay Between The Gut-kidney Axis In People With Chronic Kidney Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$63,721.00
Summary
In chronic kidney disease (CKD), uremic toxins are believed to alter the biochemical setting, causing trouble in gut microbiota and intestinal barrier. 30% of transplant recipients experience gastrointestinal (GI) intolerance. We aim to understand the role of gut microbial biomarkers, food, and probiotics, for predicting progression of CKD; describe patient experiences; and discover the relationship between GI symptoms, faecal microbial diversity, and bacteria in kidney transplant and dialysis.
Renal Artery Denervation Performed With Noncontact Circumferential Endovascular Ablation Using A Novel Microwave Catheter
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$90,967.00
Summary
High blood pressure is a common medical condition leading to death and disability. Some people with high blood pressure do not respond to medical treatment due to abnormal signals from the kidneys that tell the body to increase the blood pressure. We have designed a microwave catheter that can be placed inside the kidney artery and used to heat the kidney nerves around it to stop the relay of these messages. This will lower blood pressure for people who cannot control it with medications alone.
The Effect Of Androgen Replacement Therapy On Bone And Muscle Health In Men With Chronic Kidney Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$122,714.00
Summary
Low testosterone (T) levels are common in men with poor kidney function. Low T is known to cause reduced energy, decreased strength and low libido. Normal T is also needed for healthy bones and muscles. Men with kidney disease are already at risk of fractures, poor strength and quality of life. However, there are few studies that look at replacing T to men with kidney failure. We will investigate how low T affects bone and muscle and assess how giving T can benefit bone, muscle and function.
The Role Of Th1 Immune Responses & Inflammatory Cytokines On Cardiovascular Disease & Arterial Function In End-Stage Renal Disease & Their Response To Different Dialysis Modality
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$48,787.00
Summary
The immune system and inflammatory molecules are important factors in cardiovascular disease in the general population. These inflammatory molecules are also present in patients with end-stage kidney disease, a condition in which cardiovascular disease is excessively prevalent and the leading cause of death. We aim to use laboratory, animal and clinical studies to demonstrate the role of inflammation in cardiovascular disease in patients with kidney failure, and their response to dialysis.
Risks Of Using A Central Venous Catheter For Haemodialysis In Australia And Opportunities For Improvement
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$132,743.00
Summary
Patients with permanent or temporary severe kidney failure require dialysis treatment to remain alive and well. Commonly this is performed using a catheter (plastic tube) inserted into a large vein of the body. The use of these catheters, while life saving, is prone to complications. By assessing health data from multiple sources, this project will provide an understanding of the frequency and risk factors for such complications, and improve the lives of patients requiring such treatment.