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At the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research we are
dedicated to improving the health of the community we serve
- across the State, nation and globe.
Our research aims to uncover the genetic and environmental causes of a range of diseases. The ultimate goal is to prevent disease developing and to create improved treatments if these conditions do emerge. The Perkins Institute team has identified numerous genes associated with diseases such as leukaemia, diabetes, cancer (especially breast, ovarian and prostate), as well as those contributing to a number of nerve, muscle and mental health disorders. These breakthroughs have already positively impacted the lives of many people and inspire us to pursue these vital research initiatives. By understanding the genetic causes of disease and how the environment affects our genetic makeup, we believe better approaches can be developed to prevent and treat disease.
The Perkins Institute is Western Australia's premier
adult medical research institute, investigating the genetic
and environmental causes of a range of diseases.
Formed in 1998 with a vision of fostering a high-level
of collaboration between the State's medical researchers,
our team has made, and continues to make, a number of internationally-important
discoveries with the potential to deliver better health
to the global community.
Currently, Perkins Institute is situated at two locations - The Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre 6 Verdun Street,
Nedlands WA 6009 and the Fiona Stanley Hospital 5 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch
WA 6150.
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Cancer cells use a host of different mechanisms to bypass the
normal checks and balances that stop cells dividing uncontrollably.
An important part of this is the ability of the cancer cell
to turn on and/or off important genes. The lab focuses on the
role of nuclear organisation in these 'gene expression' decisions
made by cancers. |
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The Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory is a
multidisciplinary group that focuses on the development of novel approaches to
target cancers that are currently refractory to treatment and associated to
poor outcome, such as triple negative breast cancers and serious ovarian
cancers. At present, there are no targeted approaches to combat these
tumors, with chemotherapy and radiation the only treatment options. The laboratory
generates novel functionalised molecules able to specifically target these
tumors with minimal toxicity to normal cells. Our emphasis is in advanced stage
metastatic tumors, which quasi invariably develop resistance. Ultimately we
wish to revert the behavior of metastatic cells by sensitising these treatment
resistant tumors to chemotherapy regimes.
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Both receptor and non-receptor protein tyrosine kinases are
essential enzymes in cellular signalling processes regulating
cell growth, differentiation, migration and metabolism. Considerable
evidence implicates tyrosine kinases in the development of many
types of cancer and leukaemia via their involvement in numerous
growth factor signalling cascades. Members of the Src family
of tyrosine kinases are signalling intermediates that can control
aspects of these processes. |
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The Centre for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine
(CCTRM) facilitates collaborative research in the area of stem cell therapy and
regenerative medicine, through local, national and international collaborative
research networks.
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Diabetes research undertaken at the Perkins operates under the business name The Centre for Diabetes Research. Our research is aimed at understanding and preventing diabetes and its complications. Diabetes is recognized as a major public health problem and is Australia's fifth "national health priority area". It is characterized by increased blood sugar levels, and has two major forms: type 1 diabetes, which results from the body's own immune system destroying the insulin-producing cells; and type 2 diabetes, which results from the person's growing inability to respond normally to insulin. Both forms of diabetes are caused by complex interactions between many genes and environmental factors. Our particular focus is on the genetics of type 1 diabetes.
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The Islet Cell Development Program focuses mainly on proliferation,
differentiation, self-renewal and regeneration of pancreatic
insulin-secreting ß cells, including the molecular mechanisms
of these biological processes. The ultimate aim is to generate
unlimited number of ß cells in vitro or stimulate patient's
own progenitor/stem cells to become ß cells in vivo to cure
this disease. Our research goal is to identify a cure for type
1 diabetes and some forms of type2 diabetes
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The Laboratory for cancer medicine team works in the area
of hormone-dependent cancers, particularly breast and prostate
carcinomas. Breast and prostate cancers are two of the major
killers in western society and their incidence is increasing.
The group is focussed primarily on determining the mechanisms
that control how hormones act in these tumours.
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Each year, around 1000 Australians are diagnosed with acute
myeloid leukaemia (AML) and almost 800 Australians die annually
from the disease. This aggressive cancer usually occurs in adults,
but can also be diagnosed in children and teenagers. AML is
a heterogeneous disease characterised by arrested maturation
of immature progenitor cells in blood and bone marrow. Treatment
for AML has remained largely unchanged for 40 years, with a
continuing poor prognosis for many patients. In part, the failure
to develop new successful therapies is due to the complex molecular
changes that trigger the disease. The Leukaemia Research Group
studies genes and molecular pathways that regulate haemopoiesis
or blood cell production. |
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Linear Clinical Research is a purpose built
state-of-the-art, clinical trials facility bringing world-first clinical trials
to Western Australia and making innovative therapies available to the
community. At Linear the focus is on its phase I facility to support first in
human through to phase II clinical trials, including oncology studies. Linear
have extensive experience in conducting both healthy volunteer and patient
phase I trials, including adaptive healthy volunteer and patient protocol
designs.
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It is generally acknowledged that current therapeutic strategies
to arrest Type 2 diabetes have failed. It is of prime importance
to develop new human therapeutics to alleviate Type 2 diabetes.
Our team currently study the enzymes ADAM19 and ADAM28 and the
growth factor, TNFSF14. We ultimately aim to identify novel
molecular and cellular mechanisms which regulate obesity and
Type 2 diabetes. Our mechanistic work utilises both cellular
and in vivo approaches in both mice and humans. Successful completion
of our experimental work will provide further evidence to support
the development of therapeutics to treat human obesity and type
2 diabetes. |
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Mitochondria are microscopic, energy producing machines that
are found in all human cells. Mitochondria are essential for
the normal function and survival of all eukaryotic cells. Mitochondria
contain a small set of genes that must work properly to make
the energy our bodies require for health. Given their central
role in providing energy for cells it is not surprising that
mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in neurodegenerative disorders,
diabetes, and cancer. Despite their importance the regulation
of gene expression in mammalian mitochondria remains poorly
understood. Defects in the expression of mitochondrial genes
cause debilitating diseases for which there are no cures currently.We
investigate RNA-binding proteins that regulate the stability,
expression and translation of mitochondrial genes. We investigate
the genetic causes of diseases caused by mitochondrial dysfunction
and analyse the molecular mechanisms that cause pathology in
the diseases. As well as unravelling the mysteries of mitochondrial
genetics and biology we are interested in the development of
gene therapy approaches and therapeutics to combat mitochondrial
dysfunction in disease. |
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Steroid receptor regulation by Hsp90 and immunophilin cochaperones
Our major goal is to understand how steroid hormones regulate
cancer cell growth, particularly estrogens and androgens,
since they are important in cancers of the breast and prostate.
The action of these hormones in the cell is mediated by
estrogen (ERa) and androgen (AR) receptors. In the absence
of ligand steroid receptors undergo stepwise assembly with
Hsp90 molecular chaperone machinery to a hormone-binding
competent form in which the functionally mature receptor
complex is stabilized by the cochaperone, p23 and consists
of an Hsp90 dimer, together with one of the immunophilin
cochaperones, CyP40, FKBP51 or FKBP52.
These immunophilins compete dynamically for a common binding
site on Hsp90 and their assembly into mature receptor complexes
is determined by their relative cellular expression and
by unique receptor preferences for specific cochaperones,
potentially allowing selected immunophilins to differentially
modulate receptor activity. Our lab has shown that CyP40
is the preferred cochaperone for ERa, with induced overexpression
and siRNA depletion of CyP40 in breast cancer MCF-7 cells
resulting in increased and decreased ERa activity, respectively.
On the other hand, FKBP51 and FKBP52 specifically regulate
AR and glucocorticoid and progesterone receptors in cell
and whole animal models.
Evidence from our own lab and from others has confirmed
that all three Hsp90 cochaperones - FKBP51, FKBP52 and CyP40
- are positive regulators of AR-mediated prostate cancer
growth. Thus, the targeting of individual chaperones by
selective inhibitors presents potential treatment avenues
for hormone-based diseases, including prostate cancer.
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Endocrinology and Pharmacology are the study of how hormones
and pharmaceuticals act in the body respectively. At the molecular
and cellular level, the focus is upon the receptors in the cell
membranes that bind the hormones and pharmaceuticals, transmitting
or blocking specific signals into our cells. The laboratory's
work is currently focused primarily on developing better treatments
for kidney disease, cardiovascular disease and cancer. |
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The Perkins Monoclonal Antibody Facility produces pure antibodies
needed for medical or research purposes. Researchers and biotechnology
companies have access to the custom-made antibodies necessary
to develop new products such as diagnostic tools. Monoclonal
antibodies have been used to successfully treat breast cancer,
lymphoma, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, leukaemia and in transplants
to minimise the chances of organ rejection. |
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The Laing Laboratory is one of the world's foremost laboratories
in the investigation of the genetic causes of muscle diseases
in newborn children.
The Laboratory was the first
in the world to identify a gene for one sub-group of these
disorders and later showed that many of the children affected
with these diseases have mutations in one of the two most
important proteins in muscle contraction. These results
have helped families all round the world know the cause
of their children's muscle problems.
We are now researching possible treatments for diseases
where we have identified the genes, while at the same time
continuing work to find other genes for muscle diseases.
The Laboratory's reputation means that we receive samples
for analysis from all round the world. The Laboratory is
thus playing a leading role in a consortium of groups working
towards defeating these diseases.
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One in six Australians has impaired kidney function, with
one in three at risk of developing kidney disease. In most
cases kidney disease is asymptomatic until almost all function
is lost, making early diagnosis challenging. For people
who progress to end stage (more than 2,000 people every
year), outcomes are worse than for many cancers and the
cost of providing renal replacement therapies is high; estimated
at >$12b over the coming decade.
The Translational
Renal Research group in focussed on improving outcomes for
patients with renal diseases, by translating advances in
basic science from the bench to the bedside.
Research is focused on the immune system and how it
is affected by immunosuppression, particular in the setting
of transplantation.
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Our team focuses on developing strategies to specifically target
diseases such as cancer and atherosclerosis for diagnostic imaging
and local therapeutic interventions. |
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Changes in the tissue microenvironment, which is also called
stroma, play a crucial role in disease progression. Our research
program aims to understand how stromal cells are remodelled,
and the extent to which stroma regulates inflammatory diseases
such as cancer and atherosclerosis. We specifically target abnormal
stromal features for early disease detection and monitoring
of progressive disease.In addition, we have pioneered the field
by demonstrating that stromal remodelling rather than destruction
enhances drug and immune cell uptake into pathological lesions.
Our novel therapeutic strategies involve disruption and re-programming
of signalling networks between multiple stromal components to
break the vicious cycle of disease progression and relapse.
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The Australian Genome Research Facility (AGRF) was established
in 1997 as part of the Commonwealth Government's Major National
Research Facility (MNRF) Program and operates out of five
nodes.
In 2006, the Australian Government initiated
a 5 year programme called the National Collaborative Research
Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS). AGRF receives funding through
the NCRIS programme (see more) which is managed through
BioPlatforms Australia Ltd (BPA).
In 2009, the Australian
Government extended their infrastructure funding until 2013
through the Education Investment Fund (EIF) Super Science
Initiative. AGRF is a recipient of EIF funds, managed again
through BPA.
The AGRF supports genome research and
genetic discovery across the entire biological spectrum,
from viruses, bacteria, protozoa and fungi, to plants, animals
and humans.
AGRF Perth will initially offer routine Sanger sequencing
services, and will also act as an information gateway to
AGRF national network of services incorporating state-of-the-art
facilities, technology and expertise.
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"Busselton Health Study", one of the longest running epidemiological
research programs in the world.
The residents of the town of Busselton, a coastal community
in the south-west of Western Australia, have been involved
in a series of health surveys since 1966. To date over 20,000
men, women & children of all ages have taken part in
the surveys and have helped contribute to our understanding
of many common diseases and health conditions.
The collection of population health data in Busselton was
initiated by local GP Dr Kevin Cullen. His vision was to
establish and conduct population health research in a community
setting that would not only provide important information
into the prevalence and causes of common diseases but also
to empower participants to take an active role in their
health and well-being. We believe the original aims of the
Busselton Health Study as stated in 1966 in understanding
disease and improving the health of the population continues
today.
These aims are:
The Busselton Jetty
- To study the prevalence of common diseases in an Australian
community
- To assess the range and variation of a large number
of clinical and laboratory variables in a natural population
- To provide a community service in the detection, treatment
and prevention of disease and in the education of the population
- To conduct longitudinal surveys for the study of risk
factors related to health and disease
- To study mortality from specific diseases in an Australian
population and to define the usefulness of risk factors
in predicting such mortality
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CNR is a vibrant and productive unit consisting of hospital
staff and academic joint appointments. The purpose of CNR is
to conduct high quality funded research that is clinically driven
and internationally recognised. The focus of the Centre is to
inform and advance nursing practice, influence policy development,
and improve outcomes for patients and their families across
all clinical areas of Charlies. |
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Over the past 20 years, the Heart and Vascular Research Institute (HVRI) under the supervision of Professor Peter Thompson has grown from a small clinical trials unit attached to the Coronary Care Unit at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital to one of the largest Cardiovascular Clinical Trials units in the country. Over the years, it has conducted over 130 clinical trials on acute coronary syndromes, atrial fibrillation, new lipid lowering agents, new antithrombotic agents and new treatments and devices for cardiac failure. It is currently conducting about 15 clinical trials, as well as supervising registry studies in acute coronary syndromes, atrial fibrillation and coronary angioplasty. A dedicated staff with uniquely high standards, ably led by Louise Ferguson RN, has developed advanced skills in the conduct of cardiovascular clinical trials and the HRI is routinely one of the first centres in Australia to be approached for participation in international cardiovascular trials.
In addition to its cardiovascular
clinical trials activities, the HRI conducts studies on
vascular biology, cardiovascular genomics, cardiovascular
epidemiology and indigenous heart disease in collaboration
with scientists in the Perkins Institute, Pathwest, UWA
School of Population Health and national and with international
collaborators at University of Sydney, Monash University,
Harvard University, Duke University and McMaster University.
There has been a steady stream of Masters and PhD students
who have received their research training at the HRI.
In recent year, the HVRI has been the recipient of many large industry grants, NHMRC Projects grants and a NHMRC Practitioner Fellowship, based on its strong research programme and the highly productive output of publications in the top ranks of international medical journals.
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The Lions Eye Institute was established in 1983 and rapidly
became a global centre for ophthalmological care and first-class
scientific research into the prevention of blindness.
Our activities are underpinned by a continuous improvement
program and worldwide collaborative research as we strive
to achieve our mission – excellence in scientific research
and clinical practice to prevent blindness.
Our Clinical Services are internationally recognized for
providing high-quality care, a dedicated, passionate and
professional team, continued investment in the latest equipment
and technology, ongoing ISO 9001 accreditation and strong
patient satisfaction ratings.
Our scientists work in close association with our clinicians
to bring laboratory generated ideas and techniques to the
level where they can be of benefit to people suffering blinding
eye conditions. Our patients benefit by receiving the most
advanced treatments available anywhere in the world.
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Institute for Respiratory Health (IFRH) is a leading research organisation dedicated to fighting diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis & emphysema (COPD), bronchiectasis, lung cancer and pneumonia.
IFRH's internationally recognised scientists and clinicians conduct research to better understand and treat lung disease.
For the six million Australians who struggle to take a breath, IFRH offers support and hope for a healthier future.
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It's about proteins and discovery!
Proteomics International is both a drug discovery company
and contract service provider, focused on sophisticated
analysis for the biological research market.
High quality ISO/IEC 17025 accredited, quick and affordable
protein identification, analytical and characterisation
services are routinely provided. Proteomics International
combines the most advanced high throughput mass spectrometry
instrumentation (MALDI TOF-TOF, LC/MS/MS and Qtrap) and
a strong team of qualified scientists with proven expertise
and extensive experience in protein and peptide chemistry.
The company has two focal research activities; analysis
of venoms and the discovery and use of biomarkers from human,
animal and plant tissue. Skills developed from these research
programs are incorporated into the sophisticated suite of
specialist contract research techniques provided to clients.
Proteomics International, incorporated in 2001, is based
in Perth, Western Australia and has established itself as
an industry leader in the delivery of contract research
and lead molecule discovery services in the Asia Pacific
region. The company boasts and impressive array of clients
from the pharmaceutical industry and the company has established
strategic partnerships with key research stakeholders in
Singapore, Australia and India for discovery purposes
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Our School has a renowned research program, carried out in laboratories,
hospitals and in the community at a patient level. The research
spans the breadth of medical research. We offer courses in clinical
medicine, pharmacology and pharmacy to medical, science and
dental students. Acknowledged leaders in medical education supervise
our clinical teaching program. |
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Diabetes research undertaken at the Perkins operates under the
business name The Centre for Diabetes Research. Our research
is aimed at understanding and preventing diabetes and its complications.
Diabetes is recognized as a major public health problem and
is Australia's fifth "national health priority area". It is
characterized by increased blood sugar levels, and has two major
forms: type 1 diabetes, which results from the body's own immune
system destroying the insulin-producing cells; and type 2 diabetes,
which results from the person's growing inability to respond
normally to insulin. Both forms of diabetes are caused by complex
interactions between many genes and environmental factors. Our
particular focus is on the genetics of type 1 diabetes. |
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We enable research excellence by providing world class microscopy
and microanalysis facilities and expertise to publicly funded
researchers and industry. |
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