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PHI 2008/09 Scientific Report
Posted 15 June 2010
The 2008/9 PHI Scientific Report is now available to download. The Scientific Report reviews our research successes, achievements and our community activities.
Recent scientific discoveries led by researchers at Prince Henry’s Institute include:
Breast cancer, hormones and obesity link - A new molecular link was discovered that helps account for the increased incidence of breast cancer in obese older women.
Study links enzyme to family breast cancer - A study showed that some women, known to be at high family risk of breast cancer, have higher levels than other women of a key enzyme, aromotase, in their breast tissues.
Gene link gender identity - The largest ever genetic study of male to female transsexuals found a significant genetic link between gender identity and a gene involved in testosterone action.
Endometrial repair and activin - In a study that may lead to new treatments of abnormal uterine bleeding problems it was shown that endometrial repair is controlled by the action of activin.
Sticky proteins required for pregnancy - Research, which may explain why some women have fertility problems, revealed how two proteins are needed for the embryo to successfully attach to the inside of the uterus.
3D view of sperm development pathway - PHI research has provided a 3D view of how genes and hormones interact in diverse ways during sperm production. This understanding may also lead to novel approaches to male contraception.
Bone loss mechanisms - A study found that an experimental drug with potential as a diabetes treatment causes rapid loss of bone.
Proteomics and establishing pregnancy - Proteomics technology has been used to identify novel proteins key to establishing pregnancy. The study showed how the enzyme PC6 is regulated in the uterus.
Identification of a protein which inhibits the spread of cancer - A study showed how the molecule betaglycan may affect cell behaviours including the ability of ovarian cancer cells to metastasise.
Ageing and female hormones - A detailed study has helped unpick the complex relationships between several female hormones involved in the menstrual cycle and how these alter in later life.
Immune cells and hypertension -This research has demonstrated an important, unexpected role for the mineralocorticoid receptor in macrophage function and of the macrophage in determining the inflammation in cardiac fibrosis and high blood pressure.