Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI) researchers have received $4.1 million funding from the Australian Government's Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) to support three innovative genomic research projects.
The projects aim to improve the safety of medications and reduce related hospitalisations, protect mothers and babies from severe infections, and improve accessibility to genetic testing for children with inherited eye diseases.
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," says Professor Chan.
'A Comprehensive ADME Genomic Profile to Enhance Safety and Reduce Medicine' led by Professor Andrew Rowland – $2,548,149.61
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.
'Preventing intra-uterine infection and neonatal sepsis treatment failure in CALD communities: Precision antibiotic therapy through pathogen genomics' led by Dr Lito Papanicolas – $927,692.40
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 well-being.
'EYE-GEN (Enhancing Access for Youth with Eye Disease to GENomic Services)' led by Dr Emmanuelle Souzeau -$694,720.38
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. This project 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.
The Australian Government's Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) provides funding to continue to support lifesaving research, create jobs, strengthen the local industry base for commercialising research and innovation, and further grow Australia's reputation as a world leader in medical research.
