$4.1m Grant Supports Genomic Research

Funding from the Australian Government’s Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) has been awarded to progress a research project that aims to make genetic testing for children with inherited eye diseases more accessible. 

The project is one of three innovative genomic research projects underway at the Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI) to receive MRFF funding of AU$4.1 million. 

The other two projects aim to improve the safety of medications and reduce related hospitalisations, and to protect mothers and babies from severe infections. 

Flinders University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor Raymond Chan congratulated the FHMRI researchers and their teams saying their work will drive important genomic discoveries that provide a greater understanding of human health, disease, and best care solutions. 

“Flinders University has a long and proud tradition of research and innovation in medicine and health sciences, and this latest funding is testament to our ability to drive innovative research that improves health and wellbeing in our communities,” said Prof Chan. 

EYE-GEN  

Rare inherited eye diseases – such as childhood glaucoma, congenital cataracts, and retinoblastoma – can severely impact vision early in life. However, many families struggle to access genetic testing for diagnosis and treatment.  

‘EYE-GEN’ (Enhancing Access for Youth with Eye Disease to GENomic Services) led by Dr Emmanuelle Souzeau, received almost $700,000 in funding. For this project, researchers will work closely with families and healthcare professionals to identify barriers and develop practical solutions that improve accessibility to genetic services for children with rare inherited eye diseases. 

Medication Safety 

‘A comprehensive ADME* genomic profile to enhance safety and reduce medicine’ project, led by Professor Andrew Rowland received just over $2.5m in funding. 

Many medications used in Australia can produce unforeseen side effects, posing significant safety concerns and contributing to approximately 275,000 hospitalisations annually. This research project aims to improve medication safety by identifying non-genetic factors affecting drug reactions. Using an innovative approach, the team will analyse microscopic liver-derived particles found in the bloodstream to enhance medication safety and reduce adverse drug reactions.  

Infections in Mothers and Babies 

‘Preventing intra-uterine infection and neonatal sepsis treatment failure in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities: Precision antibiotic therapy through pathogen genomics’ led by Dr Lito Papanicolas received almost $930,000. 

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria pose a serious risk during pregnancy, increasing the chances of infections that threaten maternal and neonatal health. This project will use advanced genomic technology to identify both beneficial and harmful bacteria from vaginal swabs, enabling more precise and effective treatments to prevent complications and safeguard mother and baby wellbeing. 

*ADME is an acronym that stands for absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. 

Republished by Mivision.