Role Of Microbiota In The Developing Enteric Nervous System
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$661,979.00
Summary
The correct development of neurons in the gut is vital for digestive functions. This project will provide novel insights into how environmental factors such as the bacteria that reside in the gut and changes in diet affect maturation of the gut’s nervous system. The data will improve knowledge of the effects of widely used antibiotics and probiotics, which will facilitate strategies to improve human health and quality of life.
Imaging The Activation Of Sensory Nerve Endings That Detect Pain In The Colorectum
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$570,334.00
Summary
Within the gastrointestinal tract are sensory nerve endings that detect painful stimuli. In this project a new technique has been developed that allows us to monitor and record the activation of the particular sensory nerve endings that detect painful stimuli. This project will determine how these sensory nerve endings detect pain and how drugs might be used to relieve these unpleasant sensations arising from the gut wall.
Central Nervous Pathways For The Sympathetic Control Of Immune Function
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$300,741.00
Summary
The nervous system regulates immune system function by a special set of nerves that are part of the sympathetic nervous system. This project aims to work out which brain pathways control them.
Neural Control Of Colorectal Function And Identification Of Sites Of Drug Action
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$375,489.00
Summary
Constipation is a considerable problem, especially in the elderly; it occurs in 20-25% of people over 65 and in about 50% of people in nursing homes. It is also a significant concern for children, with up to 30% being affected. There are no adequate treatments and the majority of people are dissatisfied with their management. We have discovered a class of compounds that stimulate defecation. In this project we will test the effectiveness of these compounds to relieve constipation.
Unravelling The Neuropathological Basis Of The Gastrointestinal Manifestations Of Parkinson’s Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$822,957.00
Summary
Parkinson’s Disease occurs in about 1% of the population. It is a distressing, progressive disease that places a severe burden on patients, families and carers. 80-90% of Parkinson’s Disease patients have constipation which causes substantial distress to patients, their families and carers. We have a rational path to therapy for constipation of Parkinson’s Disease that will be pursued in this project
Cell Therapy For Enteric Neuropathies - The Essential Next Steps
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$667,142.00
Summary
Gastrointestinal motility disorders caused by damage or diseased neurons in the gut wall ("enteric neuropathies) are some of the most clinically challenging conditions to manage because of a lack of effective treatments. Our recent animal studies suggest that cell-based therapies are a real possibility to treat enteric neuropathies. In this project, we will methodically address the outstanding steps that need to be addressed with the aim of moving enteric cell therapies to the clinic.
Role Of Kinesin Binding Protein And Spontaneous Activity In The Development Of Enteric Neurons
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$599,889.00
Summary
The nerve cells in the wall of the gut play an essential role in motility. Defects in the development of these nerve cells results in pediatric motility disorders. We will examine the roles of two factors, kinesin binding protein, and spontaneous activity in the development of enteric neurons.