Development of Iron Chelators for the Treatment of Friedreichs Ataxia and the Role of Frataxin in Iron Metabolism [ 2008 - 2010 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Des Richardson (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Michael Davies

Brief description Friedreich's ataxia (FA) is a neuro- and cardio-degenerative disease where there is an accumulation of toxic Fe in the mitochondrion. Excitingly, work from our current NHMRC grant showed iron plays a significant role in FA pathology. Importantly, we developed new drugs (Fe chelators) which rescue the cardiac pathology of FA in an animal model. Studies will now assess if our drugs prevent the neurodegeneration of FA in another animal model. This work could lead to novel therapies for FA.

Funding Amount $AUD 550,987.12

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant