I have discovered particular factors produced by our white blood cells have the ability to shut down or boost protein production in the gut, pancreas and lung. My vision is to harness these to devise new strategies for treatments for infectious and non-infectious diseases (inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes) that have a high burden on our healthcare system.
This proposal aims to examine central mechanisms important in stress related hypertension. My team will focus on the role of tissue plasminogen activator in mediating inhibitory effects of chronic stress on neural plasticity and examine inhibitory dysfunction in GABAergic and nitric oxide pathways that lead to increased sympathetic activity and elevated blood pressure. Importantly, we will investigate the potential of three interventions directed at each as therapies for hypertension.
Innovative And Multi-disciplinary Treatment Strategies For Secondary Degeneration Following Neurotrauma
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$455,452.00
Summary
Following injury to the central nervous system the damage spreads into nearby areas, leading to worse outcomes for the patient. The research conducted during this Fellowship will ensure that promising treatment strategies to prevent spreading damage are used in the best way, and will determine the mechanism of action of these treatments.
Targeting The Class IIa Histone Deacetylases In Metabolic Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$408,388.00
Summary
Dysfunctional metabolism in skeletal muscle is integral in the development of metabolic diseases, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. This project will examine proteins that alter the way genes are expressed for their role in dysfunctional metabolism in muscle. This project could uncover new therapies for the treatment of metabolic diseases.
Trauma And Recovery: Understanding And Treating Posttraumatic Stress Disorder In Refugees
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$431,000.00
Summary
Refugees report high rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), however, a lack of understanding of the processes underlying refugee mental health has limited the effective treatment of this disabling disorder. My research program will overcome these barriers by uncovering core mechanisms and developing a targeted intervention to reduce PTSD symptoms in refugees. My research will advance knowledge about refugee mental health, and inform best-practice clinical care of refugees.
Understanding The Link Between Mitochondrial Biogenesis And Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$421,055.00
Summary
As the predominate energy producers of our cells, mitochondria are implicated in a variety of diseases. To function properly, these dynamic organelles rely on protein components that regulate their structure and distribution throughout the cell. My work aims to expand our knowledge of the way these components control mitochondrial shape and trafficking. By understanding the correlation between mitochondrial morphology and function, we will gain insight into related diseases.
Cellular Mechanisms Underlying Neurodegenerative Disease And The Neuronal Response To Trauma
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$406,264.00
Summary
Brain and spinal cord injury are major causes of death and disability, with degenerative diseases similarly affecting large proportions of the population. The singular objective of my research proposal is to increase our understanding of the molecular and cellular processes by which nerve cells respond to trauma and diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, and to identify new therapeutic approaches aimed at encouraging the repair of damaged cells.
Developing An Evidence Base For The Psychological Care Of Children And Families Affected By Congenital Heart Disease.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$415,218.00
Summary
Heart disease affects 1 in every 100 babies, making it one of the most common illnesses in infancy. Diagnosis and treatment of childhood heart disease often causes significant stress and trauma for children and their families. If support is not provided early, children can experience ongoing physical, emotional, and developmental problems. This program is built on a successful history of work and will improve child and family outcomes associated with heart disease through national and internatio ....Heart disease affects 1 in every 100 babies, making it one of the most common illnesses in infancy. Diagnosis and treatment of childhood heart disease often causes significant stress and trauma for children and their families. If support is not provided early, children can experience ongoing physical, emotional, and developmental problems. This program is built on a successful history of work and will improve child and family outcomes associated with heart disease through national and international research collaborations.Read moreRead less