Novel Functional Imaging For Age-related Macular Degeneration
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$564,848.00
Summary
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye condition which affects the central retina (the macula) resulting in a loss of central vision. The lack of appropriate clinical tests to monitor the progression of AMD at the early stages of disease hampers the discovery of novel interventions aimed at preventing the development of advanced vision-threatening AMD. In this project, we will investigate the use of a quick and non-invasive imaging technique for monitoring AMD progression.
Glial-neuronal-vascular Interactions In A Novel Transgenic Model Of Muller Cell Dysfunction
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$626,585.00
Summary
Muller cell disfunction is a feature shared by many retinal diseases. This project aims to study the contribution of Muller cell dysfunction to retinal neuronal damage and blood-retinal barrier breakdown in a novel transgenic model we recently generated. Results of this study will also be of interest to scientists and clinicians seeking to understand better and treat diseases of the central nervous system in general.
Developing Personalised Treatment For Retinal Degeneration
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$262,220.00
Summary
Dr Chen seeks a clinical CDF1 to support his ambition in combining his expertise in clinical management of retinal diseases with a growing track record of clinical trials and laboratory science to develop treatment for retinal degeneration. This is achieved through a patient-centred translational platform that he has established. In the next 5 years, He will identify the most suitable method for measuring progression and develop personalised therapy for a phase I clinical trial.
Novel Photoreceptor Bioenergetics: Basic Science And Clinical Translation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$701,088.00
Summary
In this project we will investigate how the light-sensitive cells in the eye (the photoreceptors) use energy and make special pigments that convert light to electrical signals. We will test novel treatments that enhance the energy supply of the photoreceptors in individuals with age-related macular degeneration.
The Contribution Of Aberrant Wnt Signalling To Neuronal And Vascular Pathology In Retinal Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$561,342.00
Summary
Neuronal damage and vascular abnormalities are features shared by many retinal diseases. We will use a novel transgenic model to study the contributions of aberrant Wnt signalling in retinal neuronal and vascular pathology, and also, to test strategies for neuroprotection and inhibition of vascular abnormalities. Success in the project may identify novel therapeutic targets leading to safer and more effective treatments for retinal diseases.
Investigating The Mechanisms Underpinning The Dynamic Vessel Response In People With Diabetic Retinopathy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$18,808.00
Summary
Endothelial dysfunction has been well-hypothesised as one of the key players in the pathogenesis of DR. However, there is strong evidence suggesting a neurovascular coupling mechanism in the retinal circulation during flicker. It is therefore unclear whether reduced flicker light induced vasodilation observed in diabetes and DR is associated with endothelial dysfunction, an impairment of neurovascular coupling or both. This project aims to address this important knowledge gap.
A Fibroin-based Prosthetic Bruch's Membrane For The Treatment Of Age-related Macular Degeneration
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$538,080.00
Summary
Our aim is to develop a new therapy for the treatment of patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in our ageing population. The novelty of our therapy resides in using a protein derived from silk fibers (fibroin), to rebuild a healthy barrier between the outermost layer of the retina and adjacent blood vessels. We expect that the findings from this study will eventually lead to better outcomes for patients with AMD.
Modelling Age-related Macular Degeneration Using Patient Specific Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$86,117.00
Summary
It is now possible to induce patient own skin cells to become stem cells. These cells can then be guided to become any cell of the body. This technique allows the study of disease cells without the need of obtaining biopsies from diseased tissue, such as the retina. This project aims to study age-related macular degeneration using patients’ stem cells, which will be differentiated into cells affected in AMD. The role of specific genetic risks in the biology of these cells will be investigated.
Targeting The De Novo Serine Synthesis Pathway In Macular Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$628,084.00
Summary
We have found a significant difference in de novo serine metabolism between the human primary Müller cells isolated from macular and peripheral retinas. We will study whether and how this difference contributes to redox homeostasis in these areas. The outcomes will help us to gain a better understanding of why the macula is more prone to develop disease than the peripheral retina.
A Nanosecond Laser Based Surgical Treatment To Prevent Progression To Vision Loss In Early Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$813,481.00
Summary
We aim to conduct a trial of a new nano-laser based treatment for Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) which, if successful in slowing progression of AMD, will lead to a dramatic reduction in vision loss in our community. AMD is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in people 50 years and older in Australia. The successful outcome will postpone vision loss, benefiting many thousands of Australians, and result in substantial healthcare savings.