Effective Sensory Rehabilitation After Stroke: Targeting Viable Brain Networks.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$767,525.00
Summary
New therapies have been developed to help the brain recover after stroke. We will compare brain networks involved in recovery of touch sensation under two new training conditions and in individuals with interruption to different parts of the network. Brain imaging will identify the functional and anatomical connections between brain regions. Our findings will guide therapists in choosing the best therapy for the right individual, based on knowledge of brain networks that have capacity to adapt.
Brain Adaptation Associated With Spontaneous And Training-induced Recovery Of Touch Sensation Post-stroke.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$339,950.00
Summary
Brain networks may reorganize to optimise stroke recovery. However, little is known about brain mechanisms underlying natural and training-induced recovery after stroke, particularly following loss of body sensations. Knowledge of the experiences that may facilitate brain reorganisation is a prerequisite for the development and evaluation of optimal stroke rehabilitation strategies. We aim to provide novel information on the potential benefits of specific training in facilitating reorganisation ....Brain networks may reorganize to optimise stroke recovery. However, little is known about brain mechanisms underlying natural and training-induced recovery after stroke, particularly following loss of body sensations. Knowledge of the experiences that may facilitate brain reorganisation is a prerequisite for the development and evaluation of optimal stroke rehabilitation strategies. We aim to provide novel information on the potential benefits of specific training in facilitating reorganisation of the brain after stroke. Specifically we will: (i) locate areas of brain activity associated with natural and training-induced recovery of touch sensation following stroke and (ii) investigate the relationship between brain activation, sensory recovery and intervening experience. Site and extent of brain activation associated with recovery of touch sensation will be investigated over time using serial functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), a controlled sensory task and clinical measures of recovery. Thirty stroke patients with impaired touch sensation of the upper limb will be studied at 2-6 weeks and 6 months post-stroke to investigate changes in brain activation associated with natural recovery (Study 1). Ten healthy controls will also be studied over 6 months. Those patients who still have sensory loss at 6 months will then receive specific sensory training or placebo intervention to study the effect of training-induced recovery on brain activity (Study 2). The whole brain will be studied and activation sites will be interpreted relative to individual and standard brain maps. We expect that the findings will advance our knowledge of the relationship between clinical recovery, training and neural plastic changes in the brain. This information will provide direction for the development of scientifically based treatments designed to maximise recovery and help identify patients who are likely to show natural recovery and-or benefit from training.Read moreRead less
I am a neuroscientist using robust statistical methods to identify effective neuroprotectants for stroke. I am examining the use of neuroprotection and novel imaging approaches to extend the utility of thrombolysis, and testing the hypothesis that neuropr
Neuroanatomical Correlates Of Susceptibility In A Model Of Genetic Epilepsy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$329,275.00
Summary
Genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE) is the most common form of epilepsy, but our understanding of the pathogenesis, in particular anatomical effects of genetic mutations, is incomplete. This project represents the first quantitative study of anatomical changes caused by a human GGE mutation. Pilot data show that the fundamental wiring of the cortex is different in GGE brains with obvious implications for epileptogenesis. This study is expected to inspire improved treatment and diagnosis.
Mechanisms Of Glutamate Receptor Maturation In Chicken Brain
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$418,980.00
Summary
In the brain, many key proteins involved in signalling change during development as part of the fine tuning of the network of connections between nerve cells. Disorders of this fine tuning are thought to result in a number of neurological or psychiatric conditions such as epilepsy and schizophrenia. This project will investigate the maturation of signalling molecules in the brain (receptors for the neurotransmitter glutamate, key enzymes called protein kinases and protein phosphatases that contr ....In the brain, many key proteins involved in signalling change during development as part of the fine tuning of the network of connections between nerve cells. Disorders of this fine tuning are thought to result in a number of neurological or psychiatric conditions such as epilepsy and schizophrenia. This project will investigate the maturation of signalling molecules in the brain (receptors for the neurotransmitter glutamate, key enzymes called protein kinases and protein phosphatases that control the activity of receptors and scaffolding proteins that bind the whole lot into a signalling complex). The project uses chickens as a novel animal model because chicken brain has a slow maturation that occurs well after the initial wiring of the brain is complete. This enables the maturation changes to be clearly identified and experimentally modified. The project combines investigations at the molecular, physiological and behavioural levels. The effects of hormones and drugs on maturation will be investigated. Because brain maturation in humans is also slow an understanding of the way in which this maturation is controlled may provide insights into what causes some neurological-psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents and how to treat or prevent them.Read moreRead less
Ischaemic Stroke And Atrial Fibrillation: Development Of A Novel Artificial Intelligence System Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$92,335.00
Summary
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an abnormal heart rhythm which is a common cause of stroke. AF can often go unrecognized as patients may have no symptoms. This project aims to develop computer software which can automatically detect underlying AF based on MRI brain scan pattern, in patients who have had an acute stroke. This project has the potential to offer several benefits, including reduced need for costly investigations, improved AF detection and a larger pool of patients being treated for AF.
Epilepsy And Stress: An Explanatory Electrophysiological Model
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$100,233.00
Summary
Epilepsy is one of the most common recurrent neurological disorders worldwide, affecting between 1 and 2% of the population. The cascade of events culminating in epilepsy, or the role of seizures in altering brain structures and circuits has been difficult to define. Previous work from our group has shown that stress markedly accelerates the process of epilepsy development. I am developing a model of brain functioning from observed brain cells to chart the changes associated with seizures, stres ....Epilepsy is one of the most common recurrent neurological disorders worldwide, affecting between 1 and 2% of the population. The cascade of events culminating in epilepsy, or the role of seizures in altering brain structures and circuits has been difficult to define. Previous work from our group has shown that stress markedly accelerates the process of epilepsy development. I am developing a model of brain functioning from observed brain cells to chart the changes associated with seizures, stress, and potential treatments.Read moreRead less
Using Stem Cells And Bioengineered Scaffolds To Promote Regeneration Following Necrotic Brain Injury
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$710,857.00
Summary
A number of injuries, including stroke, result in tissue loss. Consequently promoting repair will require restoration of tissue structure, replacement cells and a supportive environment to promote integration of these new cells. This study will engineer and develop novel scaffolds that can replace tissue whilst additionally providing physical and chemical support for newly implanted stem cells. This work will be conducted in an animal model of stroke.