1. ABC transporters and cancer
ABC transporters are involved in diverse cellular processes including resistance to cytotoxic drugs. Inhibition of these proteins will improve the efficacy of primary drug treatment and render these proteins as targets for new drugs. We are using recent atomic structures as the basis for molecular dynamics calculations and cross-linking experiments designed to identify crucial mobile regions, enabling us to identify and test small molecules that interfere with the normal movement of critical regions in these proteins. [Collaboration with Dr Richard Callaghan, Oxford University; Dr Ian Kerr, Nottingham University; and Dr Megan O'Mara, QLD University].

2. Cystic Fibrosis infections
Cystic fibrosis is the most common lethal inherited disorder in Caucasians, affecting 1 in 2,500 births. Whilst median survival has increased from 1-2 years (1960) to a current 36-38 years, chronic lung disease still causes the majority of deaths associated with CF. Most patients are infected chronically with P. aeruginosa. Resistance to chemotherapeutic antibiotics is commonplace. We are testing the efficacy of the combination of tobramycin and amiloride against P. aeruginosa in clinical and laboratory studies.
[in collaboration with Assoc Prof Cythia Whitworth and Dr Lynne Turnbull, IBID/UTS; and Assoc Profs Peter Middleton and Jon Iredell, Sydney University].

3. Ameliorating Asbestosis
When asbestos is mined or pulverized, it becomes suspended in the air as "parachutes", leading to inhalation into the lungs where it can induce fibrosis (asbestosis) or malignancy (mesothelioma). Asbestos fibres generate reactive oxygen radicals that cause cellular and DNA damage. We have made a serendipitous discovery for ameliorating the adverse effects of asbestos fibres that we now want to test in lung cell cultures, and then in animal trials.