Brain tumour models

Cancer Stem Cell Models

We aim to genetically identify positive and negative interactors of hyrax to begin to unravel the function of Paf1 complex in the transposon defence in the germline.

While there is no perfect model to simulate all the pathologies associated with human AMD, we use a growing number of approaches to better understand the progression of AMD and retinal degenerations in general. These models also serve to test the efficacy of novel AMD therapeutic and diagnostic pipelines.

Exosomes are paramount to the pathogenesis of a plethora of neurodegenerative diseases but their role in retinal degenerations remains largely unknown. At the Clear Vision Research Lab we study exosomes using several miRNA-centered approaches.

We wish to address gaps in capability by using accurate read-outs of translation efficiency available to us and developing methods for parallel extraction of structural, isoform and RNA-binding protein positional data, together with ligand-specific ribosome localisation read-outs.

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Leukemia Models

Despite only being discovered as recently as the turn of this century, miRNAs are already used in clinical trials as therapeutic candidates for complex diseases. Our research aims to characterise key miRNAs in the retina and exploit those as therapeutic molecules in the retina.

We aim to identify the causative molecular defects to investigate the function of small RNA trimming outside of germline.

Novel computational methods for long-read sequencing

We are exploring a number of therapeutic options, developed at ANU and by commercial partners, which include gene-based therapies, non-invasive therapeutics (including the use of low-level laser therapy using red light) and novel compounds.

We study how nuclear RNAs are processed, surveilled, and selectively exported, and how non-coding RNAs and R-loops shape genome organisation and stability. By defining the logic of nuclear RNA fate decisions, we aim to understand how RNA systems maintain genome integrity and contribute to disease.

RNA Sequencing with Oxford Nanopore Technologies produces a stream of signals that can be decoded to uncover the properties of individual molecules.

We engineer programmable RNA systems that activate gene expression only in target cells by embedding sensing and logic directly within mRNAs. Using ribozyme-based RNA switches, we create self-activating mRNA platforms that enable precise, cell-specific control of gene expression for biomedical applications.