Understanding The Role Of Endogenous And Pharmacologic Glycosaminoglycans In Preventing Pre-eclampsia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$516,642.00
Summary
Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a serious pregnancy complication that affects the well being of the mother and baby. There is no cure for PE except for delivery of the baby. This may result in delivery much earlier than expected causing a very premature baby. This study investigates substances in the placenta that may be responsible for causing PE. If we can understand how these substances cause the problem of PE, we may be able to find better ways of treating or preventing it.
Impact Of Islet Beta Cell Heparan Sulfate In Type 2 Diabetes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$576,777.00
Summary
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic metabolic disease which ultimately leads to the death of insulin-producing islet beta cells, elevated blood sugar levels and daily insulin injections. Since beta cells require the complex sugar heparan sulfate (HS) for survival, we will investigate whether beta cell failure in T2D results from defective HS production. HS replacement will be evaluated as a new therapeutic strategy for preserving beta cell function and preventing the need for insulin injections.