Investigating MicroRNAs As Key Regulators In A Novel Communication Pathway Driving Retinal Degeneration.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,189,692.00
Summary
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the developed world. The absence of current therapies has resulted in a significant economic burden associated with this debilitating and irreversible disease. This project will investigate the therapeutic potential of the body's own natural delivery vehicles called extracellular vesicles (EV). Along with the molecular cargo contained in EVs we will harness this as a treatment to slow down the progression of AMD.
Investigating The Role Of Mitochondrial Tom40 In Regulated Cell Death And Neurodegeneration.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$972,660.00
Summary
Mitochondria are internal compartments of cells, separated by bounding membranes. They are crucial to the life and death of cells, and to quality of human life and ageing. Diseases of the nervous system can be caused when mitochondria do not function properly. Our aim is to discover why a protein complex called TOM embedded in the bounding membrane is linked to dementia in some people. This will also lead to a better general understanding of the connection between mitochondria and human health.