Molecular Physiology of Vascular Function

 

 

  Head: Dr David Wilson

 

 

 

Research Objectives

The objectives of our research group are to identify and investigate mechanisms and therapies for vasomotor disorders. This may involve spasm of large conduit vessels or abnormal constriction of microvessels. Professor John Beltrame (a cardiologist) and Dr. David Wilson (a molecular vascular physiologist) have established a collaborative research team undertaking translational research using a three pronged approach, including:

1. Clinical characterization of vasomotor disorders
2. Discovery of underlying molecular mechanisms
3. Exploring novel therapies in basic & clinical studies.

If you would like to watch a video interview with Professor John Beltrame, please click here

The clinical and molecular physiology of vascular function laboratory utilise a wide variety of techniques and experimental approaches, including:

1. Human and Animal models of vascular disorders - provides a model of physiological function
2. Functional Myography  - provides a real time index of stimulus and  function
3. Molecular Biology - PCR analysis provides evidence of genetic defects and an index of transcriptional regulation and enables genetic manipulation and the ability to work with recombinant proteins and siRNA knock down
4. Biochemistry - provides an index of structure and enzymatic regulatory processes
5. Cellular imaging - provides an index of Ca2+ regulation and the important of molecular targeting in cellular and organ function.
6. Clinical trials – provides a translational opportunity to move from the basic science benchside to the clinical bedside

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Research Areas of Interest

1. Novel Mechanisms Controlling Vascular Contractility: The Role of the L, T and CRAC Channels in Attenuating Vasoconstriction.
2. Defining Novel Strategies to Treat Peripheral Artery Disease.
3. Novel Clinical uses for Statins
4. Myosin Phosphatase Inhibition: Novel Approaches to Manage Septic Shock.
5. Myocardial Myofilament Ca2+ Desensitisation: A Targeted Approach to Restore Function

In addition, The Molecular Physiology of Vascular Smooth Muscle laboratory is interested in inquiries from any potential PhD applicants for projects in research areas described on these pages. Further details can be obtained by contacting Dr David Wilson.

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Current 2010 Research Projects

Group photo
 (front row left to right): Jessica Dunn, Christine Smith, Natalie Cutri, Victoria Kopetz, Amenah Jaghoori, Yann Chan, Ksenya Wojewidka, Kanchani Rajopadhyaya

(back row left to right): Dr David Wilson, Prof John Beltrame, Scott Copley, Tim Spencer, Rachel Dreyer

Professional research staff: Dr David Wilson, Professor John Beltrame, Jessica Dunn (Research Assistant)

Research students: Timothy Spencer (PhD), Scott Copley (PhD), Kanchani Rajopadhyaya (PhD), Yann Chan (PhD), Amenah Jaghoori (PhD), Joanne Eng (Hons)

Past Students: Scott Copley (PhD) – Postdoctoral research fellow (France); Christine Smith (PhD) - Teaching/ Research Assistant; Ksenya Wojewidka (Honours) – Project Officer RAH; Jessica Dunn (Honours) – Research Assistant

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The Clinical and Molecular Physiology of Vascular Function Research Group benefits from funding obtained from the following sources:

• NHMRC
• NHF
• TQEH Research Foundation