Gene networks associated with neurological disorders: the key to better diagnostics and treatments
Neurological disorders such as schizophrenia and dementia are caused by a ‘perfect storm’ of unique combinations of genetic and environmental factors. Such complex combination of events leads to disruptions in gene networks and biological pathways that alter cell functions and consequently influence disease risk. New approaches in genomic technologies, computational models and experimental systems could potentially lead to personalised treatment based on an individual’s genetic composition. This project aims to map molecular networks and cell functions affected in patient-derived stem cells to help discover new therapeutic strategies tailored based on patient’s molecular and cellular signatures.
Primary supervisor: Dr Alex Cristino
Other supervisor: Emeritus Professor Alan Mackay-Sim
To apply: Contact Dr Alex Cristino with your CV at a.cristino@griffith.edu.au
Developing RNA-based treatment to enhance immune response against cancers
This project aims to investigate the epigenetic regulation via microRNA gene silencing adopted by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) to “hack” the genetic program of human B-lymphocytes (B-cells). We use a novel EBV/B-cell model system to characterize the functional role of viral microRNAs in the micro-management of cellular pathways associated with persistent B-cell infection. We propose a systems-based approach to model EBV infection in human B-cells in vitro. Our integrated platform will contribute to better understanding of fundamental molecular and cellular processes underpinning viral infection, immune escape and proliferation. The overarching goal is to produce a system-based platform to understand the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation by microRNA gene silencing associated with virus-host interactions and human cell infection. Our research focus on regulatory non-coding microRNAs as they are key factors in Epstein-Barr virus-mediated B-cell infection. These small non-coding RNAs can be easily designed, synthesized and delivered to live cells and could become a reliable new class of drugs for anti-viral therapies and vaccine adjuvants.
Primary supervisor: Dr Alex Cristino
Other supervisor: Professor Maher Gandhi (Mater Research)
To apply: Contact Dr Alex Cristino with your CV at a.cristino@griffith.edu.au