Regulation Of Synaptic Vesicle Biogenesis For Synaptic Transmission
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$339,115.00
Summary
The overall aim is to better understand the molecular processes of nerve cell communication during learning, memory and abnormal brain activity that cause neurological diseases. The supply and generation (biogenesis) of synaptic vesicles (SVs) in nerve cells is critical to sustain neurotransmission. It requires complex protein interactions and signalling. Thus modulation of SV biogenesis at the molecular level will allows future development of new targeted treatments for neurological diseases.
Investigations Of Mechanisms Underlying Autonomic Cardiovascular Regulation In Medial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$311,860.00
Summary
People with epilepsy often show disturbed cardiovascular function which may increase mortality risk. This may reflect seizure related disturbances in the autonomic circuitry regulation of the cardiovascular system. We apply advanced brain imaging analysis of altered neural structure, circuit connectivity and function within medial temporal lobe and mid brain, combined with clinical assessment of autonomic function to provide important new insights into cardiac disturbances in epilepsy.
The Role Of Dendritic MRNA Decay In Synaptic Plasticity & Cognition
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$417,193.00
Summary
Schizophrenia is characterized by abnormal contacts between brain cells, known as synapses. Maintenance of synapses requires the translation of gene products, termed mRNA, into protein. Schizophrenia has been associated with genes involved in the degradation of mRNA, which buffers translation and thus protein levels. My research therefore seeks to study the role of mRNA decay in synaptic structure, synaptic function and cognition.
The Role Of Stargazin And TARP Phosphorylation In Synaptic Plasticity
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$423,305.00
Summary
A constant change in the strength of synaptic communication between neurons is critical for higher brain functions such as learning and memory. Synaptic strength is determined in part by the number of receptor ion channels at the synapse. This project will characterise how key interacting proteins regulate the synaptic targeting of these receptors in vivo. This research aims to understand the mechanisms of synaptic plasticity that may ultimately lead to new therapies for various brain disorders.
Functional Integration Of Transplanted Neural Stem Cells In Huntingtons Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$373,360.00
Summary
The proposed study investigates important questions related to restoration of brain functions in a neurodegenerative disease, Huntington's disease, using neural stem cells (precursors of nerve cells). It will expand our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the development of Huntington's disease, and provide insights into potential therapeutic use of neural stem cells for the currently incurable Huntington's disease.
Investigating Molecular Mechanisms To Better Understand The Recent Rise In Food Allergy Prevalence In Australian Children
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$316,449.00
Summary
The prevalence of food allergies in Australia and abroad has risen drastically posing a major preventable public health burden. Further basic research is required and this program aims to make a substantial contribution towards understanding the underlying mechanisms of pediatric food allergy.
Bench To Beside Translational Studies To Develop Treatments For Preeclampsia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$265,138.00
Summary
Preeclampsia is a common, devastating complication of pregnancy responsible for the loss of countless mothers and babies. There is no medical treatment. Excitingly we have identified 2 medications, safe in pregnancy: metformin and sulfasalazine that may treat this disease. We plan to introduce these medications into the clinic to see whether they may be an effective treatment for preeclampsia. If successful, these medications have the potential to improve the lives of women and babies globally.