initializeData({"status":1,"result":[{"project_title":"Understanding how the microbiome impacts gut motility in autism","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Elisa Hill,\nProf Ashley Franks","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0434 052 127 elisa.hill@rmit.edu.au\n0477 169 590 a.franks@latrobe.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Gastrointestinal problems including inflammation are commonly experienced by people with autism although the cause is unknown. Many gene mutations affecting the nervous system, including a missense mutation in the Neuroligin-3 gene, are associated with autism (1). It is now well established that the gut microbiome impacts the immune system and gastrointestinal function. \n\nWe hypothesise that Neuroligin-3 mutant mice show altered gut motility which is rescued by treatment with the microbiome-altering drug, AB-2004.\n\nThis project will assess the effect of a microbiome-altering drug (AB-2004) on gut motility in Neuroligin-3 mutant mice and inflammation. Mice will be treated with Dextran Sodium Sulfate (DSS) to cause colitis (inflammation of the colon) and the microbiome will be modified using AB-2004. We will use our published video imaging technique (2, 3) to record gut contractile patterns in an organ bath and detect changes in gut function.\n\nThis project will identify the effects of modifying the microbiome on gut motility in a mouse model of autism and contribute to designing new therapies for clinical applications. \n\n\n1.\tHosie, S., Ellis, M., Swaminathan, M., Ramalhosa, F., Seger, G. O., Balasuriya, G. K., ... & Hill\u2010Yardin, E. L. (2019). Gastrointestinal dysfunction in patients and mice expressing the autism\u2010associated R451C mutation in neuroligin\u20103. Autism Research, 12(7), 1043-1056. \n\n2.\tSwaminathan, M., Hill-Yardin, E., Ellis, M., Zygorodimos, M., Johnston, L. A., Gwynne, R. M., & Bornstein, J. C. (2016). Video imaging and spatiotemporal maps to analyze gastrointestinal motility in mice. JoVE (Journal of Visualized Experiments), (108), e53828.\n\n3.\tAbo-Shaban, T., Lee, C. Y., Hosie, S., Balasuriya, G. K., Mohsenipour, M., Johnston, L. A., & Hill-Yardin, E. L. (2023). GutMap: A New Interface for Analysing Regional Motility Patterns in ex vivo Mouse Gastrointestinal Preparations. Bio-protocol, 13(19)."},{"project_title":"Investigating sex differences in gut function in autism","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Elisa Hill,\nDr Gayathri Balasuriya","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0434 052 127 elisa.hill@rmit.edu.au\n0430 071 515 gayathri.balasuriya@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Gastrointestinal problems are commonly experienced by people with autism although the cause is unknown. Many gene mutations affecting the nervous system are associated with autism. We have previously shown that a mutation in the Neuroligin-3 gene alters the enteric nervous system and causes gut dysfunction in male mice (1, 2). The vast majority of autism research has been undertaken in male mice and very little is known about how females are affected. \n\nIn this project, we will assess for changes in gut anatomy and gastrointestinal contractile patterns. To assess anatomical changes, we will measure small intestinal and colon length, as well as caecum weight in wild type and mutant female mice. To determine if gut contractions are altered, we will use our video imaging technique (3, 4) to compare gut motility patterns in wild type and mutant female mice. \n\nThis research will increase our understanding of gastrointestinal dysfunction in females with autism and contribute to designing new therapies.\n\n\n1.\tHosie, S., Ellis, M., Swaminathan, M., Ramalhosa, F., Seger, G. O., Balasuriya, G. K., ... & Hill\u2010Yardin, E. L. (2019). Gastrointestinal dysfunction in patients and mice expressing the autism\u2010associated R451C mutation in neuroligin\u20103. Autism Research, 12(7), 1043-1056.\n\n2.\tSharna, S. S., Balasuriya, G. K., Hosie, S., Nithianantharajah, J., Franks, A. E., & Hill-Yardin, E. L. (2020). Altered caecal neuroimmune interactions in the neuroligin-3R451C mouse model of autism. Frontiers in cellular neuroscience, 14, 85.\n\n3.\tSwaminathan, M., Hill-Yardin, E., Ellis, M., Zygorodimos, M., Johnston, L. A., Gwynne, R. M., & Bornstein, J. C. (2016). Video imaging and spatiotemporal maps to analyze gastrointestinal motility in mice. JoVE (Journal of Visualized Experiments), (108), e53828.\n\n4.\tAbo-Shaban, T., Lee, C. Y., Hosie, S., Balasuriya, G. K., Mohsenipour, M., Johnston, L. A., & Hill-Yardin, E. L. (2023). GutMap: A New Interface for Analysing Regional Motility Patterns in ex vivo Mouse Gastrointestinal Preparations. Bio-protocol, 13(19).\n"},{"project_title":"Investigating the anticancer activity of novel drugs","leader":"","supervisor":"Magdalena Plebanski,\nSrinivasa Reddy Telukutla","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7263 magdalena.plebanski@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 3976 srinivasareddy.telukutla@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Synopsis:  This project offers honours students an opportunity to work in Cancer Ageing and Vaccines Lab (CAVA) to explore the anticancer effects of newly developed drugs. Metal-based drugs have been a cornerstone of cancer chemotherapy, with cisplatin being one of the most widely used. However, the effectiveness of such platinum drugs is often limited by their serious side effects and the development of resistance in cancer cells. Therefore, there is a constant need to develop new drugs that can overcome these limitations while retaining or improved anticancer activities. This project aims to investigate the anticancer activity of novel drugs in human cancer cell lines, specifically assessing their cytotoxicity, mode of action, and potential to overcome resistance compared to traditional chemotherapeutics like cisplatin. By employing colorimetric cytotoxicity assays, flowcytometry techniques, students will investigate potential anticancer activity of new drugs, providing valuable insights into their potential therapeutic efficacy profiles.\n\nProject Components:\n1.\tCell Culture:  Culture and maintain human cancer cell lines under standard conditions. Seed cells in appropriate culture vessels for cytotoxicity assays.\n2.\tCytotoxicity assays: Treat cells with varying concentrations of novel drugs. Evaluate cell viability using MTT or Trypan Blue assays and calculate IC50 values using dose-response curves.\n3.\tMechanistic Studies. Analyze cell cycle distribution by flow cytometry after propidium iodide staining and assess apoptosis by detecting DNA damage.\n4.\tDrug Resistance Studies: Establish cisplatin-resistant sublines of cancer cells by continuous exposure to increasing concentrations of cisplatin. Compare the cytotoxic effects of novel drugs in these resistant cells to those in non-resistant counterparts.\n5.\tData Analysis: Perform statistical analysis of data using GraphPad Prism. Interpret the results in the context of the potential therapeutic application of the novel drugs.\n\nExpected Outcomes: Identification of novel drugs with significant anticancer activity and lower IC50 values compared to cisplatin. Investigation into the mechanism of anticancer activity of these compounds, including their ability to induce a DNA damage and apoptosis. The potential of these drugs to overcome cisplatin resistance, offers a basis for future therapeutic development.\n"},{"project_title":"Understanding COVID-19 and and the development of autoimmunity.","leader":"","supervisor":"Magdalena Plebanski,\nKirsty Wilson","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7263 magdalena.plebanski@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 8279 kirsty.wilson2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West","program_code":"BH058","positions":"The Cancer, Ageing and Vaccines Laboratory is currently working to better understand the effects and long-term complications of COVID-19 on the immune system. This project compares acute and mild COVID-19 patients over a time course to understand how the virus may be breaking tolerance and causing new autoimmune pathologies.","description":"The Cancer, Ageing and Vaccines Laboratory is currently working to better understand the effects and long-term complications of COVID-19 on the immune system. This project compares acute and mild COVID-19 patients over a time course to understand how the virus may be breaking tolerance and causing new autoimmune pathologies."},{"project_title":"Examination of Undergraduate Nuclear Medicine students' usage and interactions with LMS (Canvas)","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Clare Smith,\nDr Alicia Corlett","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7414 clare.smith@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7414 alicia.corlett@rmit.edu.au","campus":"201.08 but much of this work can be done online\/ remotely","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This research aims to understand the study habits of undergraduate students enrolled in the Nuclear Medicine stream of the Medical Radiations program, by analysing the time spent engaging with the Learning Management System (LMS), Canvas. The study will compare the time spent by students in Canvas, and their final results, with the aim to better understand student behaviours, and if an optimal time widow for engagement and maximised learning is evident. As well, this study will help current lecturers within the Nuclear Medicine team to better tailor their own online content based off this work and ongoing studies. "},{"project_title":"Clinical History Based Imaging","leader":"","supervisor":"Andrew Kilgour,\nRenee French","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 0254, andrew.kilgour2@rmit.edu.au\nrenee.french@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Can be done remotely","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This is a medical imaging based project will look at the differences between clinical history based imaging and protocol based imaging, and use case studies to determine which philosophy produces the best diagnostic results for patients."},{"project_title":"Antiviral approaches for the treatment of dengue virus infection","leader":"","supervisor":"Natalie Borg,\nCharlett Giuliani","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 3743 natalie.borg@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 3743 samie.elmazi@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Dengue is the most common mosquito-borne viral disease in the world, and due to a lack of FDA-approved treatments or efficacious vaccines, represents an ongoing threat to global health. Prior to 1970 only 9 countries had experienced severe dengue epidemics, but the disease is now endemic in more than 100 countries and 3.9 million people are at risk of infection. Dengue virus uses several host cofactors for its replication, and targeting these host proteins offers a way to block viral replication and circumvent the issue of microbial drug resistance. Our experience in the host-virus interface and protein chemistry provides a unique opportunity to identify critical novel host co-factors that interact with dengue virus proteins. In this project we will characterise a new anti-dengue virus host drug target utilising several approaches including RNA interference (RNAi), coimmunoprecipitation, enzymatic assays, analytical ultracentrifugation, and X-ray crystallography."},{"project_title":"Simulated Y-site compatibility of drugs commonly used in Neonatal Intensive care unit (NICU) ","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Ayman Allahham,\nDr Vivek Nooney and Dr Thilini Thrimawithana","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7998 ayman.allahham@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7125 vivek.nooney@rmit.edu.au and thilini.thrimawithana@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Building 201.09.20","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Introduction\nNeonates and Children in younger years in some instances require intensive care support depending on the level of illness. Often patients in this category are unable to use their oral route for medicines and food, due to dependency on respiratory supports requiring intubation, poorly functioning intestines, and regular corrective surgeries requiring continued nil by mouth status.\nFluid balance taking into account input and output of fluids is critical to minimise fluid accumulation. Fluid output is dependent on the kidney function which may also be impacted during times of acute illness such as Septic shock. Sepsis secondary to infection is one of the most common reasons for NICU, along with short-bowel syndrome, bowel perforations and atresia of the oesophagus requiring surgical interventions, meningitis, hydrocephalus, and persistent pulmonary hypertension.\nTo maintain fluid intake and nutrition, intra venous fluids containing higher concentrations of Glucose and electrolytes are often used to minimise the fluid volume. However, patients in NICU often require other IV medicines. Some of the commonly used medicines are calcium gluconate, metronidazole, benzyl penicillin sodium, noradrenaline, adrenaline, milrinone, sildenafil, octreotide, vasopressin and so forth. This creates a need for Y site infusions whereby the medicines being infused come into contact with continuous IV fluids that contain combination of Glucose 10%, Sodium Chloride 0.225% and Potassium 20mmol\/L (GSP). There is a lack of evidence on the physical and chemical compatibility of medicines when they mix at Y -site despite this being practiced in NICU1,2.\nObjectives:\n\u2022\tTo validate the HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) methods or any other relevant methods used to determine the concentration of various medicines commonly used in NICU.\n\u2022\tTo test the physical and chemical compatibility of commonly used medicines in varying concentrations and conditions in combination with key IV fluids like GSP in a simulated Y-site.\nNote: Students working on the project will develop many skills including characterisation, analysis, problem solving, risk assessments as well as research skills and working in a team.\n"},{"project_title":"Study human placental development using stem cells ","leader":"","supervisor":"Professor Guiying Nie,\nDr Yao Wang","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7274 guiying.nie@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7274 yao.wang2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The placenta is a transient yet critical organ that develops during pregnancy to nourish and protect the conceptus. It functions as the gut, lung and kidney of the growing fetus while these crucial organs are still developing, hence optimal development and function of the placenta is critical to fetal growth and well-being. In addition, the placenta produces hormones and other factors to influence the physiology of the mother to support pregnancy. Unfortunately, if the placenta doesn\u2019t develop or function properly, the fetus will be inevitably affected, and pregnancy complications arise. However, we don\u2019t know a lot about human placental development. Recently we have discovered a very special protein that is produced only by the human placenta, and abnormal regulation of this protein is associated with certain pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. In this study, we will leverage placental stem cells (isolated from first trimester placentas) to investigate the role of protein of our interest in placental cell differentiation and function. The study will utilize techniques such as mammalian cell culture, immunofluorescence, ELISA, real-time RT-PCR, CRISPR-CAS9 technology, RNAseq and proteomics. The results will provide important insights into placental development in the human."},{"project_title":"Comparison of digital vs conventional microscopy.","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr. Jane Moon,\nDr. Rosie Zakaria","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0412 609 232 jane.moon@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7668 rosita.zakaria@rmit.edu.au","campus":"223,2,24","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"You will be comparing Cellavision and manual microscopy: two methods used in the laboratory setting to analyze blood samples. They both serve the purpose of identifying and counting blood cells and other cellular features."},{"project_title":"Development of a Digital Educational Intervention to Enhance Safe Use of Complementary Medicines","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr. Wejdan Shahin,\nDr. Thilini Thrimawithana","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7125 wejdan.shahin@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7125 thilini.thrimawithana@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The use of complementary medicines (CMs) such as herbal remedies, vitamins, minerals, and nutritional supplements has become increasingly prevalent in healthcare practices. However, many consumers lack sufficient knowledge about the safety, efficacy, and potential adverse effects of these products. This project aims to address these gaps through the development of an educational intervention.\nThe project will focus on developing a digital intervention specifically designed to improve health literacy and promote the safe use of CMs. Tailored to meet the needs of a high-risk group, the intervention may take the form of an interactive multimedia platform or a mobile application, ensuring that the education provided is both engaging and accessible. \nThe importance of this project lies in its potential to significantly impact public health. By providing consumers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about CMs, the intervention aims to reduce the risks associated with their use and promote safer practices. \n"},{"project_title":"Investigating lipid release in epithelial cell injury models of lung fibrosis","leader":"","supervisor":"Steven Bozinovski,\nChristian Aloe, Jonathan McQualter, Elizabeth Verghese","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 6674 steven.bozinovski@rmit.edu.au\nchristian.aloe@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Building 223, Module D","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This honours project will explore the release of various lipid classes from epithelial cells subjected to different injuries. These models are designed to simulate different pathological conditions contributing to lung fibrosis. The study will focus on three primary inducers of epithelial cell injury: silica (an occupational hazard), oxidative stress induced by cigarette smoke and\/or iron, and polyinosinic acid (PolyIC) as a viral mimetic. \n\nThe project will utilize a combination of cell culture, cell viability assays, ELISA, and PCR techniques to evaluate cell damage, lipid release, and the cellular responses associated with fibrosis. Conducted in the Airways Inflammation Research Laboratory, led by Professor Steven Bozinovski, this research aims to enhance our understanding of the consequences associated with epithelial cell injury, and to elucidate a fundamental driver of lung fibrosis.\n"},{"project_title":"Navigating the Digital Frontier: Newly Graduated Nurses' Experiences with Digital Health Technologies in Clinical Practice","leader":"","supervisor":"Ruby Walter,\nProfessor Karen Livesay","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7429 ruby.walter@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7070 karen.livesay@rmit.edu.au","campus":"On or off campus - project would involve interviews and is not lab based. ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"How do newly graduated nurses experience and adapt to the use of digital health technologies in their clinical practice, and what challenges and benefits do they encounter?\n\nObjectives:\n\nTo explore the experiences of newly graduated nurses with digital health technologies in their initial practice settings.\n\nTo identify the challenges and benefits associated with the use of these technologies from the perspective of novice nurses."},{"project_title":"Internet of Things smart home system to support the elderly aging in place-A systematic review","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr. Jianxia Zhai,\nProf. Kristine Martin-McDonald","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0451 995 388 jianxia.zhai@rmit.edu.au\n0438 331 417 kris.martin-mcdonald@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora Campus, hybrid","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Background: \nDespite the remarkable development in smart home monitoring technology, a systematic literature review on Internet of Things smart home system implementation in particular barriers and enablers is lacking.  \nAim: \nTo explore current evidence of smart home technologies for elderly care by conducting a systematic review.\nMethods: \nThe systematic review will be conducted in adherence with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 reporting guideline. The systematic literature search is to be performed in electronic databases. Relevant studies will be selected as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Title and abstract screening followed by full text review will be conducted. Qualitative and quantitative synthesis will be undertaken independently by two researchers. \nEthics and dissemination:\n This study will collate and analyse anonymised data from published research and therefore, ethical approval is not necessary. Study results will be disseminated via publication in academic journals.\n\n"},{"project_title":"Bridging Educational Divides: A Qualitative Study of International Nursing Students from Different Education Systems Adapting to Higher Education in Australia","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Ruby Walter,\nRebecca Millar","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7429 ruby.walter@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 0535 rebecca.millar@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora campus & off-campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This qualitative project would examine the experiences of international nursing students from countries with education systems markedly different from Australia\u2019s, focusing on how they adapt to and navigate the Australian higher education environment. \n1.\tHow do international nursing students from education systems significantly different from Australia\u2019s experience adapting to Australian higher education?\n2.\tWhat specific challenges do these students encounter due to the differences in educational approaches, practices, and expectations?\n3.\tWhat strategies and resources do these students utilize to overcome the challenges associated with these differences?\n\n"},{"project_title":"Characterising the expression of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) during influenza A virus infection in pregnancy.","leader":"","supervisor":"Stella Liong,\nMark Miles; Stavros Selemidis","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7183, stella.liong@rmit.edu.au\n9925 0743; 9925 7182mark.miles@rmit.edu.au; stavros.selemidis@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West Campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Acetylcholine (ACh) is widely known as a neurotransmitter critical for muscle movement, memory, and cardiovascular function. Traditionally associated with the nervous system, ACh is synthesised by the enzyme choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), long thought to be exclusive to neurons. However, a recent shift in our understanding of immunity has emerged that immune cells, including lymphocytes (B and T cells), also produce ACh. Recent studies have revealed that these ChAT-expressing immune cells are not just bystanders, they actively shape the immune response. In viral infections such as influenza and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, ChAT+ T cells help dilate blood vessels, promoting the entry of immune cells into infected tissues. Meanwhile, ChAT+ B cells act as a protective brake, tempering early immune responses to prevent lung damage and severe disease later on.\n\nBut what happens during pregnancy, a time when the cardiovascular and immune systems are dramatically remodelled to support foetal development? These changes, while essential, leave the mother more vulnerable to infections. Yet, the role of ChAT+ immune cells in regulating immunity and cardiovascular function during this unique physiological state remains a mystery.\n\nThis Honours project will investigate: How do ChAT+ immune cells influence maternal immune responses and cardiovascular function during pregnancy? Could they hold the key to protecting pregnant women from severe infections? In this project, using a mouse model, students will quantify ChAT gene expression via qPCR analysis, ChAT protein localisation in tissues using immunohistochemistry techniques, and the characterisation of ChAT-expressing immune cells via flow cytometry following influenza infection.\n\nUncovering the role of these cells may not only advance our understanding of maternal-foetal health but could also open new avenues for therapeutic strategies in infection and pregnancy-related complications."},{"project_title":"Optimising Lipid Extraction Protocols for FTIR-Based Profiling in Simulated Plasma","leader":"","supervisor":"Shekhar Kumta,\nStanley Chan and Ross Vlahos","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"03 9925 7353, shekhar.kumta@rmit.edu.au\n03 9925 7353stanley.chan@rmit.edu.au and ross.vlahos@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora West, 223, level 2, Module D","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Introduction:\nLipids are essential biomarkers for metabolic health and disease, yet conventional profiling methods such as chromatography and mass spectrometry are time-consuming and resource intensive. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy offers a rapid, label-free alternative for lipid analysis, capable of producing molecular fingerprints from small sample volumes within minutes. However, in complex biological matrices like plasma, water and protein signals can obscure lipid-specific absorbances. This project aims to optimise solvent-based lipid extraction protocols to enhance FTIR spectral clarity and enable accurate quantification of lipid classes in simulated plasma.\n\nAims:\n1.\tTo optimised and compare the Folch (chloroform-methanol) and MTBE (methyl tert-butyl ether) extraction methods for lipid recovery and FTIR compatibility.\n2.\tTo develop and validate an FTIR-based spectroscopic workflow for quantifying saturated, unsaturated, and trans lipid classes using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy against high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).\n3.\tTo apply factorial experimental design and statistical analysis to identify optimal extraction conditions.\n\nExpected Outcomes:\nThis project will deliver an optimised lipid extraction protocol tailored for FTIR analysis, enabling rapid and reproducible lipid profiling. The student will develop skills in experimental design, spectroscopy, chromatography, and statistical analysis. The validated workflow has potential applications in clinical diagnostics and biomedical research, offering a faster alternative to traditional lipid assays. The student will also gain experience in method development and validation, preparing them for future work in analytical chemistry, laboratory medicine, or translational research.\nThe student will gain hands-on experience in:\nAnalytical techniques: including FTIR spectroscopy and HPLC for lipid quantification.\nExperimental design and method development: applying factorial design and statistical analysis (e.g., ANOVA) to optimise protocols.\nSpectral data processing: learning baseline correction, peak integration, and multivariate calibration using tools like OriginPro or Python.\nCritical thinking and validation: comparing FTIR results with HPLC data to assess accuracy and reliability. These skills are highly transferable to careers in laboratory medicine, analytical chemistry, and biomedical research."},{"project_title":"Reliability of an AI-based, markerless camera system for quantifying gait and lifting kinematics","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Adrian Pranata,\nA\/Prof Toh Yen Pang","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"+61399251668, adrian.pranata@rmit.edu.au\n+61399256128tohyen.pang@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Markerless, AI-based camera systems can measure how people move without markers or lab suits. This honours project asks a practical question: does one such system give consistent results when healthy adults repeat common movements like walking and lifting?\nYou will work in the Bundoora Biomechanics Laboratory within a research team. You will be recruiting healthy volunteers, set up the camera system, and record short bouts of level-ground walking and \u2018freestyle\u2019 lifting tasks. Each participant will attend on two occasions so we can check how stable the measurements are between each day, a week apart. You will also help process the recordings with the AI software and compare results produced by different student analysts to see if the findings hold up regardless of who analyses the data.\nWe will focus on clear, useful outcomes such as walking speed, step length, and joint and trunk movement during lifts. The goal is to determine whether the system is reliable, has acceptable level of measurement error in a controlled lab setting when compared to laboratory movement assessment system, and to define simple thresholds for \u201creal change\u201d that future studies and clinicians can use. This project has received ethics approval from RMIT Human Research Ethics Committee (ID: 27957). You will be fully trained in the data collection, data analytics, privacy and safety procedures will be provided. A likely output from this project will be a research manuscript and an honours thesis.\n"},{"project_title":"Listening to Shoulders: Understanding the Patient Experience of Shoulder Osteoarthritis with Australian Health Care System ","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Rose Alibazi ,\nDr Adrian Pranata ","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0490467811, rose.alibazi@rmit.edu.au\n+61399251668adrian.pranata@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora west\/ Online ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Shoulder osteoarthritis (OA) can have a profound impact on a person\u2019s ability to manage everyday tasks, sleep, work, and stay active \u2014 yet the voices of those living with shoulder OA are rarely heard in research. This Honours project aims to explore the real-life experiences of people living with shoulder OA in Australia, focusing on their journey through the healthcare system.\n\nThrough one-on-one interviews, you\u2019ll investigate how patients understand their condition, navigate referrals, manage pain, and make decisions about treatment options such as physiotherapy, injections, or surgery. The study will use qualitative research methods to uncover what matters most to patients, what support they value, and where the healthcare system may fall short."},{"project_title":"Can early life COVID-19 lead to obesity or impaired growth?","leader":"","supervisor":"Sarah Spencer,\nSoniya Xavier","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7745, sarah.spencer@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7745soniya.xavier2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"223. Module F. ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"SARS-CoV-2 can cause cognitive and mental health damage in adults that lasts at least months after the initial infection. Recent data suggest that COVID-19 can also influence children long-term and that this influence differs depending upon the age at which they encounter the virus. Data from our team shows that a model of juvenile COVID-19 causes long-term anxiety-like behaviours that are not seen if the challenge is encountered in adulthood. There are sex differences in these effects. In addition to anxiety, we have also seen that female rats given a COVID-like challenge at postnatal day 7 gain less weight than controls while males are unaffected at this age, but male rats given a COVID-like challenge at postnatal day 23 gain more weight than controls. These findings suggest that hypothalamic satiety circuitry may be impacted by an early life COVID-like challenge and that the impact differs depending upon age and sex. These findings have significant implications for weight regulation throughout life, potentially increasing the risk of obesity or delayed growth. \n\nIn this project, you will\n-\tConduct immunohistochemistry for key satiety-related proteins neuropeptide Y (NPY), agouti-related protein (AGRP), pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) in the hypothalamus of rats given a COVID-like challenge at various ages. \n-\tRun ELISAs for circulating leptin,  insulin and free-fatty acids in plasma samples from rats given a COVID-like challenge at various ages. \n"},{"project_title":"Exploring Australian Physiotherapy Clinical Practices in the Management of Shoulder Osteoarthritis","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Rose Alibazi ,\nDr Adrian Pranata ","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0490467811, rose.alibazi@rmit.edu.au\n+61 3 9925 1668adrian.pranata@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora West Campus \/ Online ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Shoulder osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of pain and disability in older adults, yet it remains under-researched in physiotherapy compared to hip and knee OA. This Honours project will explore how physiotherapists across Australia diagnose and manage shoulder OA, including clinical decision-making, treatment strategies, and the barriers faced in delivering evidence-based care.\n\nIn this project, you will be tasked to conduct an online survey to capture and analyse clinical practice trends from physiotherapists in Australia on how they manage shoulder OA presentations. Your findings will help shape the future management strategies of this debilitating musculoskeletal condition."},{"project_title":"Astrocyte responses to brain immune changes","leader":"","supervisor":"Sarah Spencer,\nSoniya Xavier","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7745, sarah.spencer@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7745soniya.xavier2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"223. Module F. ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Each astrocyte has the capacity to interact with as many as two million neuronal synapses. This means astrocyte dynamics in the face of a central nervous system challenge are crucial for brain function. Our previous work has indicated that when the brain\u2019s immune cells, microglia, are depopulated from the brain, astrocytes become more phagocytic than usual (actively consuming dead and dying cells, debris, invading pathogens, and weak neuronal components). This activity could potentially compensate for some loss of microglial function. We hypothesise that astrocytes are strongly responsive to microglial activity and will alter their morphology and gene expression profiles in response to microglial depopulation and to microglial responses to an immune challenge. Manipulating astrocyte dynamics could thus enhance the neuroimmune response with positive implications for treating Alzheimer\u2019s, traumatic brain injury, and other neurodegenerative disorders.\n\nIn this project, you will\n-\tConduct immunohistochemistry and tracing of astrocytes after microglial repopulation and immune challenge. \n-\tAnalyse RNAseq on astrocytes after repopulation using MACS (magnetic cell sorting).\n\nDepopulation is achieved using our Cx3cr1-Dtr transgenic rats. These rats have a diphtheria toxin (DT) receptor knocked in to their Cx3cr1 gene, which is expressed on microglia and monocytes. By giving DT we can ablate microglia. These then spontaneously repopulate the brain by about 7 days at which time our previous data suggest astrocytes are more active. \n"},{"project_title":"Digital Biomarkers for Breast Cancer diagnosis and treatment:  Using Radiomics, Fractal dimension, and AI in Mammography both with to without CM","leader":"","supervisor":"Moshi Geso,\nRicky O'Brian","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0401730320, moshi.geso@rmit.edu.au\n0401730320ricky.obrien@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT University and Monash Medical centre","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"1-\tFor validation or support of diagnosis. In this case 1) Radiomics will be applied on mammographic images and all its parameters will be extracted. This will be extended for many patients [N patients]. A correlation between these parameter values and the diagnosis outcome will be obtained. A parameter which will show consistence in its variation with positively diagnosed cases will be the focus of the study and potentially it can be used as marker. 2) we also propose another Digital Marker called Fractal dimension. Particularly we aim at using Lacunarity factor which can be determined from radiologic images. This is a mathematical model which have been tested for evaluation of images and extracting information about homogeneity which can be linked to tissue abnormalities. 3) Our team currently is involved in Artificial Intelligence models trained on radiologic images to study motoin effects on images during radiotherapy.  We can extend this to study the feasibility of training an AI model to predict abnormalities in images.\nResearch Overview: Enhancing Diagnostic Support through Radiomics, Fractal Analysis, and AI in Medical Imaging\na. Radiomics for Diagnostic Validation\nOur study focuses on applying radiomics to mammographic images to extract a comprehensive set of quantitative features. By analyzing these features across a substantial patient cohort (denoted as N patients), we aim to identify correlations between specific radiomic parameters and diagnostic outcomes. Parameters demonstrating consistent variation in positively diagnosed cases will be highlighted as potential biomarkers, offering non-invasive tools to support diagnostic decisions.\n\nb. Fractal Dimension and Lacunarity as Digital Markers\nWe propose the utilization of fractal analysis, specifically focusing on the lacunarity factor, as an additional digital marker. Lacunarity measures the texture and heterogeneity within radiologic images, providing insights into tissue abnormalities. By quantifying the distribution of gaps or spaces in tissue structures, lacunarity can serve as an indicator of pathological changes, complementing traditional diagnostic methods.\n\nc. Artificial Intelligence in Radiologic Image Analysis\nOur team is actively developing artificial intelligence (AI) models trained on radiologic images to assess motion effects during radiotherapy. Building upon this expertise, we intend to explore the feasibility of training AI models to predict abnormalities in medical images. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, these models can potentially identify patterns indicative of disease, enhancing early detection and treatment planning.\n\nThis integrated approach aims to advance diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes by combining radiomics, fractal analysis, and AI-driven methodologies in medical imaging.\n\n2-\tThis part will deal with images of patients who have been treated via radiotherapy. Again same as the previous steps the three biomarkers will be applied on their CT images & radiologic images  (cone beam CTs if applicable) and determine parameters which correlates with the outcome of the treatment.\nIn Summary: This project involves extraction of digital biomarkers from breast images of patients diagnosed for detection of cancer. These markers will be correlated with the diagnosis outcome to establish a relationship between their values and the diagnosis outcome.\n"},{"project_title":"Early Detection of Sepsis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Using Urinary Biomarkers in an Animal Model","leader":"","supervisor":"Rosita Zakaria,\nStanley Chan, Ross Vlahos and Shekhar Kumta","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"+61399257668, rosita.zakaria@rmit.edu.au\n+61399257353stanley.chan@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West Campus, 223, 02, Module D","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Introduction:\nAcute kidney injury (AKI) is a serious and often silent complication of sepsis, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality in critical care settings (Yang et al., 2025). Traditional markers like serum creatinine are delayed and lack sensitivity for early tubular injury. Recent research has identified a panel of urinary biomarkers\u2014including NGAL, KIM-1, L-FABP, and TIMP-2\/IGFBP7\u2014that may detect renal stress and damage at earlier stages(Rizvi & Kashani, 2017; Yang et al., 2025). This project aims to evaluate the temporal expression of these biomarkers in a large animal model of sepsis and assess their potential for early diagnosis and clinical translation.\n\nAims:\n1.\tTo evaluate the temporal (time course) expression of urinary biomarkers of tubular injury in a large animal model of sepsis. \n2.\tTo identify early predictors of progression to severe AKI. \n3.\tTo assess the feasibility of integrating these biomarkers into a predictive diagnostic assay.\n\nExpected Outcomes:\nThis project will provide critical insights into the early pathophysiology of sepsis-induced AKI and validate urinary biomarkers for early detection. The findings will inform future diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies, with strong translational potential in critical care medicine.\nThe student will gain hands-on experience in:\nBiomarker analysis: using ELISA and HPLC-MS to quantify urinary biomarkers.\nExperimental design and time-series analysis: capturing dynamic changes in renal injury.\nData interpretation and statistical modelling: including bivariate and multivariate analyses to identify predictive markers.\nTranslational research: understanding how laboratory findings can inform clinical diagnostics. These skills are highly relevant for careers in biomedical research, clinical pathology, and translational medicine.\n\nContact Person:\nDr Rosita Zakaria (rosita.zakaria@rmit.edu.au) \u2013 School of Health & Biomedical Sciences;\nDr Stanley Chan (stanley.chan@rmit.edu.au) \u2013 School of Health & Biomedical Sciences\n"},{"project_title":"Study human placental development using stem cells ","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Guiying Nie,\nDr Yao Wang","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7274, guiying.nie@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7274yao.wang2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The placenta is a transient yet critical organ that develops during pregnancy to nourish and protect the conceptus. It functions as the gut, lung and kidney of the growing fetus while these crucial organs are still developing, hence optimal development and function of the placenta is critical to fetal growth and well-being. In addition, the placenta produces hormones and other factors to influence the physiology of the mother to support pregnancy. Unfortunately, if the placenta doesn\u2019t develop or function properly, the fetus will be inevitably affected, and pregnancy complications arise. However, we don\u2019t know a lot about human placental development. Recently we have discovered a very special protein that is produced only by the human placenta, and abnormal regulation of this protein is associated with certain pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. In this study, we will leverage placental stem cells (isolated from first trimester placentas) to investigate the role of protein of our interest in placental cell differentiation and function. The study will utilise techniques such as mammalian cell culture, immunofluorescence, ELISA, real-time RT-PCR, CRISPR-CAS9 technology, RNAseq and proteomics. The results will provide important insights into placental development in the human."},{"project_title":"Comparing how radiation activates MAPK signalling in melanocyte-derived cells","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Terry Piva,\nA\/Prof Moshi Geso","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 6503, terry.piva@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7991moshi.geso@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Module B Building 223, though some work may be undertaken at ARPANSA, Lower Plenty Road, Yallambie","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"While intense and prolonged exposure to UVR (ultraviolet radiation) or IR (ionising radiation) cause a variety of effects at the cellular level, the effects of lower, more realistic exposure levels to these forms of radiation, specifically in cell signalling pathways linked to cell survival, is not known even though it is highly implicated in aggressive melanoma survival.\n\nMost melanomas are caused by overexposure to solar UV radiation. And like UVR, IR can stimulate ROS formation, which has been implicated as a driving force for alternate signalling pathway activation. However, to date, the cell signalling responses activated in melanocytes to lower doses of UVR has not been explored thoroughly, and practically nonexistent in regards to IR, though recently it has been shown that the latter can stimulate MAPK signalling pathways. \n\nThis project will provide important information on the mechanism by which these forms of radiation activate MAPK signalling via Ras or PI3K\/Akt alone, or is cross-talk occurring.  Students will gain expertise in cell culturing, as well as advanced laboratory skills in biochemistry, radiation biology, cell and molecular biology, while undertaking this project."},{"project_title":"Development of a novel complementary medicine formulation for the management of inflammatory conditions","leader":"","supervisor":"Thilini Thrimawithana,\nAyman Allahham","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"03 9925 7125, thilini.thrimawithana@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7998ayman.allahham@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, impact significantly on a person's quality of life (1-3). In addition, currently used pharmacological therapies are associated with many adverse effects. Therefore, many people consider the use of complementary medicines (CMs) such as polyphenols, curcumin and omega-3 fatty acids to achieve remission of their condition. However, the understanding of the synergistic action of these CMs. \nThe key aim of this project is to:\n-\tDevelop a stability indicating LC-MS method for selected list of CMs\n-\tDetermine the synergistic or antagonistic effects of selected CMs using in-vitro methods\n\nReferences:\n1.\tAlmutairi, K., Nossent, J., Preen, D. et al. The global prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis: a meta-analysis based on a systematic review. Rheumatol Int 41, 863\u2013877 (2021). https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s00296-020-04731-0\n2.\tYakup Kilic, Shahed Kamal, Farah Jaffar, Danujan Sriranganathan, Mohammed Nabil Quraishi, Jonathan P Segal, Prevalence of Extraintestinal Manifestations in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, Volume 30, Issue 2, February 2024, Pages 230\u2013239, https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/ibd\/izad061\n3.\tHildebrandt, X., Ibrahim, M. & Peltzer, N. Cell death and inflammation during obesity: \u201cKnow my methods, WAT(son)\u201d. Cell Death Differ 30, 279\u2013292 (2023). https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41418-022-01062-4 \n\n"},{"project_title":"Can We Regrow the Brain? Insights from a Unique Mouse","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nBobbi Fleiss","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n0490 172 055bobbi.fleiss@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability worldwide, with no effective treatments to restore lost neural tissue. Most mammals, including humans and laboratory mice, respond to brain injury with scarring and limited repair. In contrast, the spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) is a remarkable species with unique regenerative abilities. Unlike conventional rodents, spiny mice can heal skin, muscle, and even spinal cord injuries with minimal scarring. Recent work in our laboratory shows that the spiny mouse brain also responds differently to injury, with reduced tissue loss, less gliosis, and enhanced production of new neurons.\nThis project will investigate the mechanisms that underpin this regenerative response. \n\nStudents will use histology, immunofluorescence, and\/or molecular techniques to compare neuronal survival, axonal repair, and neural progenitor activity in spiny mice versus standard laboratory mice following penetrating brain injury. The project provides hands-on experience in rodent brain anatomy, tissue processing, microscopy, and quantitative image analysis, while contributing to a novel line of research with real clinical relevance.\n\nThis Honours project offers a unique opportunity to study a mammalian model of brain regeneration and uncover new strategies for repairing the injured human brain.\n"},{"project_title":"Cracking the Code of Cortical Folding: Insights from the Subplate","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nMikaela Barresi","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n0409 556 754mikaela.barresi@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The subplate is a transient compartment of the developing brain that appears around 12\u201313 weeks of gestation in humans and is no longer distinct by ~30 weeks. Comparative studies suggest that this layer may contribute to cortical folding, a key process in human brain development. The earliest cortical folds (gyri and sulci) form in consistent locations within a species, indicating strong genetic regulation. The subplate also has a unique extracellular environment enriched in proteins that support neuronal migration and axon growth. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive sulcus formation remain unclear. Recent work from our laboratory suggests that apoptosis (programmed cell death) may help establish sulcal anchor points, while vascular changes associated with folding may also play a role. \n\nIn this project you will use fluorescence imaging and RT-qPCR to investigate apoptosis and vascular changes in the subplate of gyrencephalic species (ferret and sheep) and compare these findings with those from a lissencephalic species (spiny mouse). All tissues required are already available.\n\nThis Honours project offers students the opportunity to develop skills in developmental neuroanatomy, imaging, and quantitative molecular analysis, while contributing to novel research on the mechanisms of cortical folding and their relevance to human brain development and disease. \n\n \n\n "},{"project_title":"Can Spiny Mice Unlock Myelin Repair for MS?","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nBobbi Fleiss","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n0490 172 055bobbi.fleiss@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The adult mammalian brain has limited ability to heal, particularly in conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), where progressive white matter loss leads to motor and cognitive deficits. Remarkably, the spiny mouse can regenerate skin and muscle without scarring and repair brain injuries faster than standard laboratory (C57BL\/6J) mice, with reduced inflammation. Its capacity to repair white matter, however, remains unknown.\n\nThis project will investigate white matter regeneration in the spiny mouse using cuprizone, a compound that induces demyelination when added to rodent chow. Students will identify the optimal cuprizone dose to induce demyelination in spiny mice, compare the extent of demyelination with C57BL\/6J mice, and assess remyelination at one and two weeks post-demyelination.\n\nStudents will gain hands-on experience in neuroanatomy, tissue processing, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, and quantitative image analysis, contributing to research with potential implications for promoting white matter repair in humans."},{"project_title":"Characterising the impact of viral infection in the brain on neuroinflammation and cognitive function","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Melissa Churchill,\nDr Thomas Angelovich","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 6657, melissa.churchill@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 6066 thomas.angelovich@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West Campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza, human cytomegalovirus, Epstein Barr virus and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are global health burdens and have been demonstrated to impact the brain. These infections can lead to brain fog, confusion, memory deficits, motor problems, and, in some cases, dementia. Understanding the mechanisms by which viruses infect and\/or damage the brain is critical to improving health outcomes for individuals impacted by viral infections. \n\nIn this project, students will employ a range of laboratory techniques including immunohistochemistry, qPCR and ELISA on human clinical samples from people with viral infections in the brain to assess neuronal and brain cell activation and integrity. Ex vivo models of human brain tissue will also be used to investigate the fundamental mechanisms of cellular and neuronal dysfunction in the presence of viral infection, delivered using nanoparticle technologies.\n\nFindings from this study will advance our understanding of the mechanisms by which viral infections in the brain contributes to neuropathology and brain disorders."},{"project_title":"Examination of cheaper and more efficient alternative QC techniques for clinically used Nuclear Medicine radiopharmaceuticals ","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Clare Smith,\nDr Alicia Corlett","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0399257414, clare.smith@rmit.eu.au\n0399257414alicia.corlett@rmit.eu.au","campus":"RMIT University Bundoora West","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This project will largely focus on and investigate two currently used Nuclear Medicine radiopharmaceuticals (99mTc-Sestamibi and 99mTc-MAG3) and means to perform the Quality Control (QC) using Thin-layer Chromatography (TLC), which is an alternative method to how it is currently performed using Sep-paks.\nThe QC is important as it determines if the prepared radiopharmaceutical can be administered to a patient. TLC is a preferable QC method, as it is fast, easy to perform, and cheaper than the alternative QC method, which utilises Sep-paks, which are expensive, and single-use. \nTherefore, a developed means to reliably perform the QC for these radiopharmaceuticals using TLC would have significant impact in the current nuclear medicine clinical environment.\nThis work will be performed on small samples with radiation, and the cold (non-radiation) compounds using TLC, Sep-paks, and a TLC-strip reader."},{"project_title":"Investigating DITPA as a Therapeutic for Restoring Neuronal Populations in IUGR","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nMikaela Barresi","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":" 9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n 0409 556 754mikaela.barresi@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition in which a fetus does not grow to its expected size during pregnancy, often due to inadequate nutrient or oxygen supply from the placenta. IUGR is associated with an increased risk of perinatal complications and long-term neurodevelopmental impairments. Affected infants often show reduced brain growth, impaired neuronal maturation, and disrupted cortical circuitry. One potential mechanism is reduced expression of the thyroid hormone transporter MCT8, which limits thyroid hormone signalling and may impair the development of excitatory and inhibitory neurons as well as glial support cells.\n\nThis project will investigate whether neonatal treatment with DITPA, a thyroid hormone analogue that bypasses MCT8, can restore neuronal and glial populations in an IUGR rat model. Neonatal rats were treated with DITPA during the first postnatal week, and brains were collected at postnatal day 35 (adolescent equivalent). Students will perform immunofluorescent staining on pre-cut brain sections to quantify excitatory projection neurons (Ctip2 and Satb2), inhibitory interneurons (parvalbumin and somatostatin), astrocytes (GFAP), and microglia (Iba1).\n\nStudents will gain hands-on experience in immunofluorescence, fluorescence microscopy, quantitative image analysis, and statistical interpretation. This project combines practical laboratory training with the opportunity to explore the therapeutic potential of DITPA for restoring neuronal balance in IUGR-affected brains. The research has direct relevance to improving outcomes for human infants born growth-restricted."}],"discipline":{"1":""}}); showSheetData({"status":1,"result":[{"project_title":"Understanding how the microbiome impacts gut motility in autism","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Elisa Hill,\nProf Ashley Franks","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0434 052 127 elisa.hill@rmit.edu.au\n0477 169 590 a.franks@latrobe.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Gastrointestinal problems including inflammation are commonly experienced by people with autism although the cause is unknown. Many gene mutations affecting the nervous system, including a missense mutation in the Neuroligin-3 gene, are associated with autism (1). It is now well established that the gut microbiome impacts the immune system and gastrointestinal function. \n\nWe hypothesise that Neuroligin-3 mutant mice show altered gut motility which is rescued by treatment with the microbiome-altering drug, AB-2004.\n\nThis project will assess the effect of a microbiome-altering drug (AB-2004) on gut motility in Neuroligin-3 mutant mice and inflammation. Mice will be treated with Dextran Sodium Sulfate (DSS) to cause colitis (inflammation of the colon) and the microbiome will be modified using AB-2004. We will use our published video imaging technique (2, 3) to record gut contractile patterns in an organ bath and detect changes in gut function.\n\nThis project will identify the effects of modifying the microbiome on gut motility in a mouse model of autism and contribute to designing new therapies for clinical applications. \n\n\n1.\tHosie, S., Ellis, M., Swaminathan, M., Ramalhosa, F., Seger, G. O., Balasuriya, G. K., ... & Hill\u2010Yardin, E. L. (2019). Gastrointestinal dysfunction in patients and mice expressing the autism\u2010associated R451C mutation in neuroligin\u20103. Autism Research, 12(7), 1043-1056. \n\n2.\tSwaminathan, M., Hill-Yardin, E., Ellis, M., Zygorodimos, M., Johnston, L. A., Gwynne, R. M., & Bornstein, J. C. (2016). Video imaging and spatiotemporal maps to analyze gastrointestinal motility in mice. JoVE (Journal of Visualized Experiments), (108), e53828.\n\n3.\tAbo-Shaban, T., Lee, C. Y., Hosie, S., Balasuriya, G. K., Mohsenipour, M., Johnston, L. A., & Hill-Yardin, E. L. (2023). GutMap: A New Interface for Analysing Regional Motility Patterns in ex vivo Mouse Gastrointestinal Preparations. Bio-protocol, 13(19)."},{"project_title":"Investigating sex differences in gut function in autism","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Elisa Hill,\nDr Gayathri Balasuriya","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0434 052 127 elisa.hill@rmit.edu.au\n0430 071 515 gayathri.balasuriya@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Gastrointestinal problems are commonly experienced by people with autism although the cause is unknown. Many gene mutations affecting the nervous system are associated with autism. We have previously shown that a mutation in the Neuroligin-3 gene alters the enteric nervous system and causes gut dysfunction in male mice (1, 2). The vast majority of autism research has been undertaken in male mice and very little is known about how females are affected. \n\nIn this project, we will assess for changes in gut anatomy and gastrointestinal contractile patterns. To assess anatomical changes, we will measure small intestinal and colon length, as well as caecum weight in wild type and mutant female mice. To determine if gut contractions are altered, we will use our video imaging technique (3, 4) to compare gut motility patterns in wild type and mutant female mice. \n\nThis research will increase our understanding of gastrointestinal dysfunction in females with autism and contribute to designing new therapies.\n\n\n1.\tHosie, S., Ellis, M., Swaminathan, M., Ramalhosa, F., Seger, G. O., Balasuriya, G. K., ... & Hill\u2010Yardin, E. L. (2019). Gastrointestinal dysfunction in patients and mice expressing the autism\u2010associated R451C mutation in neuroligin\u20103. Autism Research, 12(7), 1043-1056.\n\n2.\tSharna, S. S., Balasuriya, G. K., Hosie, S., Nithianantharajah, J., Franks, A. E., & Hill-Yardin, E. L. (2020). Altered caecal neuroimmune interactions in the neuroligin-3R451C mouse model of autism. Frontiers in cellular neuroscience, 14, 85.\n\n3.\tSwaminathan, M., Hill-Yardin, E., Ellis, M., Zygorodimos, M., Johnston, L. A., Gwynne, R. M., & Bornstein, J. C. (2016). Video imaging and spatiotemporal maps to analyze gastrointestinal motility in mice. JoVE (Journal of Visualized Experiments), (108), e53828.\n\n4.\tAbo-Shaban, T., Lee, C. Y., Hosie, S., Balasuriya, G. K., Mohsenipour, M., Johnston, L. A., & Hill-Yardin, E. L. (2023). GutMap: A New Interface for Analysing Regional Motility Patterns in ex vivo Mouse Gastrointestinal Preparations. Bio-protocol, 13(19).\n"},{"project_title":"Investigating the anticancer activity of novel drugs","leader":"","supervisor":"Magdalena Plebanski,\nSrinivasa Reddy Telukutla","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7263 magdalena.plebanski@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 3976 srinivasareddy.telukutla@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Synopsis:  This project offers honours students an opportunity to work in Cancer Ageing and Vaccines Lab (CAVA) to explore the anticancer effects of newly developed drugs. Metal-based drugs have been a cornerstone of cancer chemotherapy, with cisplatin being one of the most widely used. However, the effectiveness of such platinum drugs is often limited by their serious side effects and the development of resistance in cancer cells. Therefore, there is a constant need to develop new drugs that can overcome these limitations while retaining or improved anticancer activities. This project aims to investigate the anticancer activity of novel drugs in human cancer cell lines, specifically assessing their cytotoxicity, mode of action, and potential to overcome resistance compared to traditional chemotherapeutics like cisplatin. By employing colorimetric cytotoxicity assays, flowcytometry techniques, students will investigate potential anticancer activity of new drugs, providing valuable insights into their potential therapeutic efficacy profiles.\n\nProject Components:\n1.\tCell Culture:  Culture and maintain human cancer cell lines under standard conditions. Seed cells in appropriate culture vessels for cytotoxicity assays.\n2.\tCytotoxicity assays: Treat cells with varying concentrations of novel drugs. Evaluate cell viability using MTT or Trypan Blue assays and calculate IC50 values using dose-response curves.\n3.\tMechanistic Studies. Analyze cell cycle distribution by flow cytometry after propidium iodide staining and assess apoptosis by detecting DNA damage.\n4.\tDrug Resistance Studies: Establish cisplatin-resistant sublines of cancer cells by continuous exposure to increasing concentrations of cisplatin. Compare the cytotoxic effects of novel drugs in these resistant cells to those in non-resistant counterparts.\n5.\tData Analysis: Perform statistical analysis of data using GraphPad Prism. Interpret the results in the context of the potential therapeutic application of the novel drugs.\n\nExpected Outcomes: Identification of novel drugs with significant anticancer activity and lower IC50 values compared to cisplatin. Investigation into the mechanism of anticancer activity of these compounds, including their ability to induce a DNA damage and apoptosis. The potential of these drugs to overcome cisplatin resistance, offers a basis for future therapeutic development.\n"},{"project_title":"Understanding COVID-19 and and the development of autoimmunity.","leader":"","supervisor":"Magdalena Plebanski,\nKirsty Wilson","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7263 magdalena.plebanski@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 8279 kirsty.wilson2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West","program_code":"BH058","positions":"The Cancer, Ageing and Vaccines Laboratory is currently working to better understand the effects and long-term complications of COVID-19 on the immune system. This project compares acute and mild COVID-19 patients over a time course to understand how the virus may be breaking tolerance and causing new autoimmune pathologies.","description":"The Cancer, Ageing and Vaccines Laboratory is currently working to better understand the effects and long-term complications of COVID-19 on the immune system. This project compares acute and mild COVID-19 patients over a time course to understand how the virus may be breaking tolerance and causing new autoimmune pathologies."},{"project_title":"Examination of Undergraduate Nuclear Medicine students' usage and interactions with LMS (Canvas)","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Clare Smith,\nDr Alicia Corlett","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7414 clare.smith@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7414 alicia.corlett@rmit.edu.au","campus":"201.08 but much of this work can be done online\/ remotely","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This research aims to understand the study habits of undergraduate students enrolled in the Nuclear Medicine stream of the Medical Radiations program, by analysing the time spent engaging with the Learning Management System (LMS), Canvas. The study will compare the time spent by students in Canvas, and their final results, with the aim to better understand student behaviours, and if an optimal time widow for engagement and maximised learning is evident. As well, this study will help current lecturers within the Nuclear Medicine team to better tailor their own online content based off this work and ongoing studies. "},{"project_title":"Clinical History Based Imaging","leader":"","supervisor":"Andrew Kilgour,\nRenee French","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 0254, andrew.kilgour2@rmit.edu.au\nrenee.french@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Can be done remotely","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This is a medical imaging based project will look at the differences between clinical history based imaging and protocol based imaging, and use case studies to determine which philosophy produces the best diagnostic results for patients."},{"project_title":"Antiviral approaches for the treatment of dengue virus infection","leader":"","supervisor":"Natalie Borg,\nCharlett Giuliani","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 3743 natalie.borg@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 3743 samie.elmazi@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Dengue is the most common mosquito-borne viral disease in the world, and due to a lack of FDA-approved treatments or efficacious vaccines, represents an ongoing threat to global health. Prior to 1970 only 9 countries had experienced severe dengue epidemics, but the disease is now endemic in more than 100 countries and 3.9 million people are at risk of infection. Dengue virus uses several host cofactors for its replication, and targeting these host proteins offers a way to block viral replication and circumvent the issue of microbial drug resistance. Our experience in the host-virus interface and protein chemistry provides a unique opportunity to identify critical novel host co-factors that interact with dengue virus proteins. In this project we will characterise a new anti-dengue virus host drug target utilising several approaches including RNA interference (RNAi), coimmunoprecipitation, enzymatic assays, analytical ultracentrifugation, and X-ray crystallography."},{"project_title":"Simulated Y-site compatibility of drugs commonly used in Neonatal Intensive care unit (NICU) ","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Ayman Allahham,\nDr Vivek Nooney and Dr Thilini Thrimawithana","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7998 ayman.allahham@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7125 vivek.nooney@rmit.edu.au and thilini.thrimawithana@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Building 201.09.20","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Introduction\nNeonates and Children in younger years in some instances require intensive care support depending on the level of illness. Often patients in this category are unable to use their oral route for medicines and food, due to dependency on respiratory supports requiring intubation, poorly functioning intestines, and regular corrective surgeries requiring continued nil by mouth status.\nFluid balance taking into account input and output of fluids is critical to minimise fluid accumulation. Fluid output is dependent on the kidney function which may also be impacted during times of acute illness such as Septic shock. Sepsis secondary to infection is one of the most common reasons for NICU, along with short-bowel syndrome, bowel perforations and atresia of the oesophagus requiring surgical interventions, meningitis, hydrocephalus, and persistent pulmonary hypertension.\nTo maintain fluid intake and nutrition, intra venous fluids containing higher concentrations of Glucose and electrolytes are often used to minimise the fluid volume. However, patients in NICU often require other IV medicines. Some of the commonly used medicines are calcium gluconate, metronidazole, benzyl penicillin sodium, noradrenaline, adrenaline, milrinone, sildenafil, octreotide, vasopressin and so forth. This creates a need for Y site infusions whereby the medicines being infused come into contact with continuous IV fluids that contain combination of Glucose 10%, Sodium Chloride 0.225% and Potassium 20mmol\/L (GSP). There is a lack of evidence on the physical and chemical compatibility of medicines when they mix at Y -site despite this being practiced in NICU1,2.\nObjectives:\n\u2022\tTo validate the HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) methods or any other relevant methods used to determine the concentration of various medicines commonly used in NICU.\n\u2022\tTo test the physical and chemical compatibility of commonly used medicines in varying concentrations and conditions in combination with key IV fluids like GSP in a simulated Y-site.\nNote: Students working on the project will develop many skills including characterisation, analysis, problem solving, risk assessments as well as research skills and working in a team.\n"},{"project_title":"Study human placental development using stem cells ","leader":"","supervisor":"Professor Guiying Nie,\nDr Yao Wang","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7274 guiying.nie@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7274 yao.wang2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The placenta is a transient yet critical organ that develops during pregnancy to nourish and protect the conceptus. It functions as the gut, lung and kidney of the growing fetus while these crucial organs are still developing, hence optimal development and function of the placenta is critical to fetal growth and well-being. In addition, the placenta produces hormones and other factors to influence the physiology of the mother to support pregnancy. Unfortunately, if the placenta doesn\u2019t develop or function properly, the fetus will be inevitably affected, and pregnancy complications arise. However, we don\u2019t know a lot about human placental development. Recently we have discovered a very special protein that is produced only by the human placenta, and abnormal regulation of this protein is associated with certain pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. In this study, we will leverage placental stem cells (isolated from first trimester placentas) to investigate the role of protein of our interest in placental cell differentiation and function. The study will utilize techniques such as mammalian cell culture, immunofluorescence, ELISA, real-time RT-PCR, CRISPR-CAS9 technology, RNAseq and proteomics. The results will provide important insights into placental development in the human."},{"project_title":"Comparison of digital vs conventional microscopy.","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr. Jane Moon,\nDr. Rosie Zakaria","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0412 609 232 jane.moon@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7668 rosita.zakaria@rmit.edu.au","campus":"223,2,24","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"You will be comparing Cellavision and manual microscopy: two methods used in the laboratory setting to analyze blood samples. They both serve the purpose of identifying and counting blood cells and other cellular features."},{"project_title":"Development of a Digital Educational Intervention to Enhance Safe Use of Complementary Medicines","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr. Wejdan Shahin,\nDr. Thilini Thrimawithana","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7125 wejdan.shahin@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7125 thilini.thrimawithana@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The use of complementary medicines (CMs) such as herbal remedies, vitamins, minerals, and nutritional supplements has become increasingly prevalent in healthcare practices. However, many consumers lack sufficient knowledge about the safety, efficacy, and potential adverse effects of these products. This project aims to address these gaps through the development of an educational intervention.\nThe project will focus on developing a digital intervention specifically designed to improve health literacy and promote the safe use of CMs. Tailored to meet the needs of a high-risk group, the intervention may take the form of an interactive multimedia platform or a mobile application, ensuring that the education provided is both engaging and accessible. \nThe importance of this project lies in its potential to significantly impact public health. By providing consumers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about CMs, the intervention aims to reduce the risks associated with their use and promote safer practices. \n"},{"project_title":"Investigating lipid release in epithelial cell injury models of lung fibrosis","leader":"","supervisor":"Steven Bozinovski,\nChristian Aloe, Jonathan McQualter, Elizabeth Verghese","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 6674 steven.bozinovski@rmit.edu.au\nchristian.aloe@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Building 223, Module D","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This honours project will explore the release of various lipid classes from epithelial cells subjected to different injuries. These models are designed to simulate different pathological conditions contributing to lung fibrosis. The study will focus on three primary inducers of epithelial cell injury: silica (an occupational hazard), oxidative stress induced by cigarette smoke and\/or iron, and polyinosinic acid (PolyIC) as a viral mimetic. \n\nThe project will utilize a combination of cell culture, cell viability assays, ELISA, and PCR techniques to evaluate cell damage, lipid release, and the cellular responses associated with fibrosis. Conducted in the Airways Inflammation Research Laboratory, led by Professor Steven Bozinovski, this research aims to enhance our understanding of the consequences associated with epithelial cell injury, and to elucidate a fundamental driver of lung fibrosis.\n"},{"project_title":"Navigating the Digital Frontier: Newly Graduated Nurses' Experiences with Digital Health Technologies in Clinical Practice","leader":"","supervisor":"Ruby Walter,\nProfessor Karen Livesay","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7429 ruby.walter@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7070 karen.livesay@rmit.edu.au","campus":"On or off campus - project would involve interviews and is not lab based. ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"How do newly graduated nurses experience and adapt to the use of digital health technologies in their clinical practice, and what challenges and benefits do they encounter?\n\nObjectives:\n\nTo explore the experiences of newly graduated nurses with digital health technologies in their initial practice settings.\n\nTo identify the challenges and benefits associated with the use of these technologies from the perspective of novice nurses."},{"project_title":"Internet of Things smart home system to support the elderly aging in place-A systematic review","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr. Jianxia Zhai,\nProf. Kristine Martin-McDonald","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0451 995 388 jianxia.zhai@rmit.edu.au\n0438 331 417 kris.martin-mcdonald@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora Campus, hybrid","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Background: \nDespite the remarkable development in smart home monitoring technology, a systematic literature review on Internet of Things smart home system implementation in particular barriers and enablers is lacking.  \nAim: \nTo explore current evidence of smart home technologies for elderly care by conducting a systematic review.\nMethods: \nThe systematic review will be conducted in adherence with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 reporting guideline. The systematic literature search is to be performed in electronic databases. Relevant studies will be selected as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Title and abstract screening followed by full text review will be conducted. Qualitative and quantitative synthesis will be undertaken independently by two researchers. \nEthics and dissemination:\n This study will collate and analyse anonymised data from published research and therefore, ethical approval is not necessary. Study results will be disseminated via publication in academic journals.\n\n"},{"project_title":"Bridging Educational Divides: A Qualitative Study of International Nursing Students from Different Education Systems Adapting to Higher Education in Australia","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Ruby Walter,\nRebecca Millar","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7429 ruby.walter@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 0535 rebecca.millar@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora campus & off-campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This qualitative project would examine the experiences of international nursing students from countries with education systems markedly different from Australia\u2019s, focusing on how they adapt to and navigate the Australian higher education environment. \n1.\tHow do international nursing students from education systems significantly different from Australia\u2019s experience adapting to Australian higher education?\n2.\tWhat specific challenges do these students encounter due to the differences in educational approaches, practices, and expectations?\n3.\tWhat strategies and resources do these students utilize to overcome the challenges associated with these differences?\n\n"},{"project_title":"Characterising the expression of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) during influenza A virus infection in pregnancy.","leader":"","supervisor":"Stella Liong,\nMark Miles; Stavros Selemidis","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7183, stella.liong@rmit.edu.au\n9925 0743; 9925 7182mark.miles@rmit.edu.au; stavros.selemidis@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West Campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Acetylcholine (ACh) is widely known as a neurotransmitter critical for muscle movement, memory, and cardiovascular function. Traditionally associated with the nervous system, ACh is synthesised by the enzyme choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), long thought to be exclusive to neurons. However, a recent shift in our understanding of immunity has emerged that immune cells, including lymphocytes (B and T cells), also produce ACh. Recent studies have revealed that these ChAT-expressing immune cells are not just bystanders, they actively shape the immune response. In viral infections such as influenza and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, ChAT+ T cells help dilate blood vessels, promoting the entry of immune cells into infected tissues. Meanwhile, ChAT+ B cells act as a protective brake, tempering early immune responses to prevent lung damage and severe disease later on.\n\nBut what happens during pregnancy, a time when the cardiovascular and immune systems are dramatically remodelled to support foetal development? These changes, while essential, leave the mother more vulnerable to infections. Yet, the role of ChAT+ immune cells in regulating immunity and cardiovascular function during this unique physiological state remains a mystery.\n\nThis Honours project will investigate: How do ChAT+ immune cells influence maternal immune responses and cardiovascular function during pregnancy? Could they hold the key to protecting pregnant women from severe infections? In this project, using a mouse model, students will quantify ChAT gene expression via qPCR analysis, ChAT protein localisation in tissues using immunohistochemistry techniques, and the characterisation of ChAT-expressing immune cells via flow cytometry following influenza infection.\n\nUncovering the role of these cells may not only advance our understanding of maternal-foetal health but could also open new avenues for therapeutic strategies in infection and pregnancy-related complications."},{"project_title":"Optimising Lipid Extraction Protocols for FTIR-Based Profiling in Simulated Plasma","leader":"","supervisor":"Shekhar Kumta,\nStanley Chan and Ross Vlahos","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"03 9925 7353, shekhar.kumta@rmit.edu.au\n03 9925 7353stanley.chan@rmit.edu.au and ross.vlahos@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora West, 223, level 2, Module D","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Introduction:\nLipids are essential biomarkers for metabolic health and disease, yet conventional profiling methods such as chromatography and mass spectrometry are time-consuming and resource intensive. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy offers a rapid, label-free alternative for lipid analysis, capable of producing molecular fingerprints from small sample volumes within minutes. However, in complex biological matrices like plasma, water and protein signals can obscure lipid-specific absorbances. This project aims to optimise solvent-based lipid extraction protocols to enhance FTIR spectral clarity and enable accurate quantification of lipid classes in simulated plasma.\n\nAims:\n1.\tTo optimised and compare the Folch (chloroform-methanol) and MTBE (methyl tert-butyl ether) extraction methods for lipid recovery and FTIR compatibility.\n2.\tTo develop and validate an FTIR-based spectroscopic workflow for quantifying saturated, unsaturated, and trans lipid classes using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy against high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).\n3.\tTo apply factorial experimental design and statistical analysis to identify optimal extraction conditions.\n\nExpected Outcomes:\nThis project will deliver an optimised lipid extraction protocol tailored for FTIR analysis, enabling rapid and reproducible lipid profiling. The student will develop skills in experimental design, spectroscopy, chromatography, and statistical analysis. The validated workflow has potential applications in clinical diagnostics and biomedical research, offering a faster alternative to traditional lipid assays. The student will also gain experience in method development and validation, preparing them for future work in analytical chemistry, laboratory medicine, or translational research.\nThe student will gain hands-on experience in:\nAnalytical techniques: including FTIR spectroscopy and HPLC for lipid quantification.\nExperimental design and method development: applying factorial design and statistical analysis (e.g., ANOVA) to optimise protocols.\nSpectral data processing: learning baseline correction, peak integration, and multivariate calibration using tools like OriginPro or Python.\nCritical thinking and validation: comparing FTIR results with HPLC data to assess accuracy and reliability. These skills are highly transferable to careers in laboratory medicine, analytical chemistry, and biomedical research."},{"project_title":"Reliability of an AI-based, markerless camera system for quantifying gait and lifting kinematics","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Adrian Pranata,\nA\/Prof Toh Yen Pang","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"+61399251668, adrian.pranata@rmit.edu.au\n+61399256128tohyen.pang@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Markerless, AI-based camera systems can measure how people move without markers or lab suits. This honours project asks a practical question: does one such system give consistent results when healthy adults repeat common movements like walking and lifting?\nYou will work in the Bundoora Biomechanics Laboratory within a research team. You will be recruiting healthy volunteers, set up the camera system, and record short bouts of level-ground walking and \u2018freestyle\u2019 lifting tasks. Each participant will attend on two occasions so we can check how stable the measurements are between each day, a week apart. You will also help process the recordings with the AI software and compare results produced by different student analysts to see if the findings hold up regardless of who analyses the data.\nWe will focus on clear, useful outcomes such as walking speed, step length, and joint and trunk movement during lifts. The goal is to determine whether the system is reliable, has acceptable level of measurement error in a controlled lab setting when compared to laboratory movement assessment system, and to define simple thresholds for \u201creal change\u201d that future studies and clinicians can use. This project has received ethics approval from RMIT Human Research Ethics Committee (ID: 27957). You will be fully trained in the data collection, data analytics, privacy and safety procedures will be provided. A likely output from this project will be a research manuscript and an honours thesis.\n"},{"project_title":"Listening to Shoulders: Understanding the Patient Experience of Shoulder Osteoarthritis with Australian Health Care System ","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Rose Alibazi ,\nDr Adrian Pranata ","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0490467811, rose.alibazi@rmit.edu.au\n+61399251668adrian.pranata@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora west\/ Online ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Shoulder osteoarthritis (OA) can have a profound impact on a person\u2019s ability to manage everyday tasks, sleep, work, and stay active \u2014 yet the voices of those living with shoulder OA are rarely heard in research. This Honours project aims to explore the real-life experiences of people living with shoulder OA in Australia, focusing on their journey through the healthcare system.\n\nThrough one-on-one interviews, you\u2019ll investigate how patients understand their condition, navigate referrals, manage pain, and make decisions about treatment options such as physiotherapy, injections, or surgery. The study will use qualitative research methods to uncover what matters most to patients, what support they value, and where the healthcare system may fall short."},{"project_title":"Can early life COVID-19 lead to obesity or impaired growth?","leader":"","supervisor":"Sarah Spencer,\nSoniya Xavier","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7745, sarah.spencer@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7745soniya.xavier2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"223. Module F. ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"SARS-CoV-2 can cause cognitive and mental health damage in adults that lasts at least months after the initial infection. Recent data suggest that COVID-19 can also influence children long-term and that this influence differs depending upon the age at which they encounter the virus. Data from our team shows that a model of juvenile COVID-19 causes long-term anxiety-like behaviours that are not seen if the challenge is encountered in adulthood. There are sex differences in these effects. In addition to anxiety, we have also seen that female rats given a COVID-like challenge at postnatal day 7 gain less weight than controls while males are unaffected at this age, but male rats given a COVID-like challenge at postnatal day 23 gain more weight than controls. These findings suggest that hypothalamic satiety circuitry may be impacted by an early life COVID-like challenge and that the impact differs depending upon age and sex. These findings have significant implications for weight regulation throughout life, potentially increasing the risk of obesity or delayed growth. \n\nIn this project, you will\n-\tConduct immunohistochemistry for key satiety-related proteins neuropeptide Y (NPY), agouti-related protein (AGRP), pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) in the hypothalamus of rats given a COVID-like challenge at various ages. \n-\tRun ELISAs for circulating leptin,  insulin and free-fatty acids in plasma samples from rats given a COVID-like challenge at various ages. \n"},{"project_title":"Exploring Australian Physiotherapy Clinical Practices in the Management of Shoulder Osteoarthritis","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Rose Alibazi ,\nDr Adrian Pranata ","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0490467811, rose.alibazi@rmit.edu.au\n+61 3 9925 1668adrian.pranata@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora West Campus \/ Online ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Shoulder osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of pain and disability in older adults, yet it remains under-researched in physiotherapy compared to hip and knee OA. This Honours project will explore how physiotherapists across Australia diagnose and manage shoulder OA, including clinical decision-making, treatment strategies, and the barriers faced in delivering evidence-based care.\n\nIn this project, you will be tasked to conduct an online survey to capture and analyse clinical practice trends from physiotherapists in Australia on how they manage shoulder OA presentations. Your findings will help shape the future management strategies of this debilitating musculoskeletal condition."},{"project_title":"Astrocyte responses to brain immune changes","leader":"","supervisor":"Sarah Spencer,\nSoniya Xavier","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7745, sarah.spencer@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7745soniya.xavier2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"223. Module F. ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Each astrocyte has the capacity to interact with as many as two million neuronal synapses. This means astrocyte dynamics in the face of a central nervous system challenge are crucial for brain function. Our previous work has indicated that when the brain\u2019s immune cells, microglia, are depopulated from the brain, astrocytes become more phagocytic than usual (actively consuming dead and dying cells, debris, invading pathogens, and weak neuronal components). This activity could potentially compensate for some loss of microglial function. We hypothesise that astrocytes are strongly responsive to microglial activity and will alter their morphology and gene expression profiles in response to microglial depopulation and to microglial responses to an immune challenge. Manipulating astrocyte dynamics could thus enhance the neuroimmune response with positive implications for treating Alzheimer\u2019s, traumatic brain injury, and other neurodegenerative disorders.\n\nIn this project, you will\n-\tConduct immunohistochemistry and tracing of astrocytes after microglial repopulation and immune challenge. \n-\tAnalyse RNAseq on astrocytes after repopulation using MACS (magnetic cell sorting).\n\nDepopulation is achieved using our Cx3cr1-Dtr transgenic rats. These rats have a diphtheria toxin (DT) receptor knocked in to their Cx3cr1 gene, which is expressed on microglia and monocytes. By giving DT we can ablate microglia. These then spontaneously repopulate the brain by about 7 days at which time our previous data suggest astrocytes are more active. \n"},{"project_title":"Digital Biomarkers for Breast Cancer diagnosis and treatment:  Using Radiomics, Fractal dimension, and AI in Mammography both with to without CM","leader":"","supervisor":"Moshi Geso,\nRicky O'Brian","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0401730320, moshi.geso@rmit.edu.au\n0401730320ricky.obrien@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT University and Monash Medical centre","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"1-\tFor validation or support of diagnosis. In this case 1) Radiomics will be applied on mammographic images and all its parameters will be extracted. This will be extended for many patients [N patients]. A correlation between these parameter values and the diagnosis outcome will be obtained. A parameter which will show consistence in its variation with positively diagnosed cases will be the focus of the study and potentially it can be used as marker. 2) we also propose another Digital Marker called Fractal dimension. Particularly we aim at using Lacunarity factor which can be determined from radiologic images. This is a mathematical model which have been tested for evaluation of images and extracting information about homogeneity which can be linked to tissue abnormalities. 3) Our team currently is involved in Artificial Intelligence models trained on radiologic images to study motoin effects on images during radiotherapy.  We can extend this to study the feasibility of training an AI model to predict abnormalities in images.\nResearch Overview: Enhancing Diagnostic Support through Radiomics, Fractal Analysis, and AI in Medical Imaging\na. Radiomics for Diagnostic Validation\nOur study focuses on applying radiomics to mammographic images to extract a comprehensive set of quantitative features. By analyzing these features across a substantial patient cohort (denoted as N patients), we aim to identify correlations between specific radiomic parameters and diagnostic outcomes. Parameters demonstrating consistent variation in positively diagnosed cases will be highlighted as potential biomarkers, offering non-invasive tools to support diagnostic decisions.\n\nb. Fractal Dimension and Lacunarity as Digital Markers\nWe propose the utilization of fractal analysis, specifically focusing on the lacunarity factor, as an additional digital marker. Lacunarity measures the texture and heterogeneity within radiologic images, providing insights into tissue abnormalities. By quantifying the distribution of gaps or spaces in tissue structures, lacunarity can serve as an indicator of pathological changes, complementing traditional diagnostic methods.\n\nc. Artificial Intelligence in Radiologic Image Analysis\nOur team is actively developing artificial intelligence (AI) models trained on radiologic images to assess motion effects during radiotherapy. Building upon this expertise, we intend to explore the feasibility of training AI models to predict abnormalities in medical images. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, these models can potentially identify patterns indicative of disease, enhancing early detection and treatment planning.\n\nThis integrated approach aims to advance diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes by combining radiomics, fractal analysis, and AI-driven methodologies in medical imaging.\n\n2-\tThis part will deal with images of patients who have been treated via radiotherapy. Again same as the previous steps the three biomarkers will be applied on their CT images & radiologic images  (cone beam CTs if applicable) and determine parameters which correlates with the outcome of the treatment.\nIn Summary: This project involves extraction of digital biomarkers from breast images of patients diagnosed for detection of cancer. These markers will be correlated with the diagnosis outcome to establish a relationship between their values and the diagnosis outcome.\n"},{"project_title":"Early Detection of Sepsis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Using Urinary Biomarkers in an Animal Model","leader":"","supervisor":"Rosita Zakaria,\nStanley Chan, Ross Vlahos and Shekhar Kumta","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"+61399257668, rosita.zakaria@rmit.edu.au\n+61399257353stanley.chan@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West Campus, 223, 02, Module D","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Introduction:\nAcute kidney injury (AKI) is a serious and often silent complication of sepsis, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality in critical care settings (Yang et al., 2025). Traditional markers like serum creatinine are delayed and lack sensitivity for early tubular injury. Recent research has identified a panel of urinary biomarkers\u2014including NGAL, KIM-1, L-FABP, and TIMP-2\/IGFBP7\u2014that may detect renal stress and damage at earlier stages(Rizvi & Kashani, 2017; Yang et al., 2025). This project aims to evaluate the temporal expression of these biomarkers in a large animal model of sepsis and assess their potential for early diagnosis and clinical translation.\n\nAims:\n1.\tTo evaluate the temporal (time course) expression of urinary biomarkers of tubular injury in a large animal model of sepsis. \n2.\tTo identify early predictors of progression to severe AKI. \n3.\tTo assess the feasibility of integrating these biomarkers into a predictive diagnostic assay.\n\nExpected Outcomes:\nThis project will provide critical insights into the early pathophysiology of sepsis-induced AKI and validate urinary biomarkers for early detection. The findings will inform future diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies, with strong translational potential in critical care medicine.\nThe student will gain hands-on experience in:\nBiomarker analysis: using ELISA and HPLC-MS to quantify urinary biomarkers.\nExperimental design and time-series analysis: capturing dynamic changes in renal injury.\nData interpretation and statistical modelling: including bivariate and multivariate analyses to identify predictive markers.\nTranslational research: understanding how laboratory findings can inform clinical diagnostics. These skills are highly relevant for careers in biomedical research, clinical pathology, and translational medicine.\n\nContact Person:\nDr Rosita Zakaria (rosita.zakaria@rmit.edu.au) \u2013 School of Health & Biomedical Sciences;\nDr Stanley Chan (stanley.chan@rmit.edu.au) \u2013 School of Health & Biomedical Sciences\n"},{"project_title":"Study human placental development using stem cells ","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Guiying Nie,\nDr Yao Wang","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7274, guiying.nie@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7274yao.wang2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The placenta is a transient yet critical organ that develops during pregnancy to nourish and protect the conceptus. It functions as the gut, lung and kidney of the growing fetus while these crucial organs are still developing, hence optimal development and function of the placenta is critical to fetal growth and well-being. In addition, the placenta produces hormones and other factors to influence the physiology of the mother to support pregnancy. Unfortunately, if the placenta doesn\u2019t develop or function properly, the fetus will be inevitably affected, and pregnancy complications arise. However, we don\u2019t know a lot about human placental development. Recently we have discovered a very special protein that is produced only by the human placenta, and abnormal regulation of this protein is associated with certain pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. In this study, we will leverage placental stem cells (isolated from first trimester placentas) to investigate the role of protein of our interest in placental cell differentiation and function. The study will utilise techniques such as mammalian cell culture, immunofluorescence, ELISA, real-time RT-PCR, CRISPR-CAS9 technology, RNAseq and proteomics. The results will provide important insights into placental development in the human."},{"project_title":"Comparing how radiation activates MAPK signalling in melanocyte-derived cells","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Terry Piva,\nA\/Prof Moshi Geso","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 6503, terry.piva@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7991moshi.geso@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Module B Building 223, though some work may be undertaken at ARPANSA, Lower Plenty Road, Yallambie","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"While intense and prolonged exposure to UVR (ultraviolet radiation) or IR (ionising radiation) cause a variety of effects at the cellular level, the effects of lower, more realistic exposure levels to these forms of radiation, specifically in cell signalling pathways linked to cell survival, is not known even though it is highly implicated in aggressive melanoma survival.\n\nMost melanomas are caused by overexposure to solar UV radiation. And like UVR, IR can stimulate ROS formation, which has been implicated as a driving force for alternate signalling pathway activation. However, to date, the cell signalling responses activated in melanocytes to lower doses of UVR has not been explored thoroughly, and practically nonexistent in regards to IR, though recently it has been shown that the latter can stimulate MAPK signalling pathways. \n\nThis project will provide important information on the mechanism by which these forms of radiation activate MAPK signalling via Ras or PI3K\/Akt alone, or is cross-talk occurring.  Students will gain expertise in cell culturing, as well as advanced laboratory skills in biochemistry, radiation biology, cell and molecular biology, while undertaking this project."},{"project_title":"Development of a novel complementary medicine formulation for the management of inflammatory conditions","leader":"","supervisor":"Thilini Thrimawithana,\nAyman Allahham","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"03 9925 7125, thilini.thrimawithana@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7998ayman.allahham@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, impact significantly on a person's quality of life (1-3). In addition, currently used pharmacological therapies are associated with many adverse effects. Therefore, many people consider the use of complementary medicines (CMs) such as polyphenols, curcumin and omega-3 fatty acids to achieve remission of their condition. However, the understanding of the synergistic action of these CMs. \nThe key aim of this project is to:\n-\tDevelop a stability indicating LC-MS method for selected list of CMs\n-\tDetermine the synergistic or antagonistic effects of selected CMs using in-vitro methods\n\nReferences:\n1.\tAlmutairi, K., Nossent, J., Preen, D. et al. The global prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis: a meta-analysis based on a systematic review. Rheumatol Int 41, 863\u2013877 (2021). https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s00296-020-04731-0\n2.\tYakup Kilic, Shahed Kamal, Farah Jaffar, Danujan Sriranganathan, Mohammed Nabil Quraishi, Jonathan P Segal, Prevalence of Extraintestinal Manifestations in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, Volume 30, Issue 2, February 2024, Pages 230\u2013239, https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/ibd\/izad061\n3.\tHildebrandt, X., Ibrahim, M. & Peltzer, N. Cell death and inflammation during obesity: \u201cKnow my methods, WAT(son)\u201d. Cell Death Differ 30, 279\u2013292 (2023). https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41418-022-01062-4 \n\n"},{"project_title":"Can We Regrow the Brain? Insights from a Unique Mouse","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nBobbi Fleiss","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n0490 172 055bobbi.fleiss@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability worldwide, with no effective treatments to restore lost neural tissue. Most mammals, including humans and laboratory mice, respond to brain injury with scarring and limited repair. In contrast, the spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) is a remarkable species with unique regenerative abilities. Unlike conventional rodents, spiny mice can heal skin, muscle, and even spinal cord injuries with minimal scarring. Recent work in our laboratory shows that the spiny mouse brain also responds differently to injury, with reduced tissue loss, less gliosis, and enhanced production of new neurons.\nThis project will investigate the mechanisms that underpin this regenerative response. \n\nStudents will use histology, immunofluorescence, and\/or molecular techniques to compare neuronal survival, axonal repair, and neural progenitor activity in spiny mice versus standard laboratory mice following penetrating brain injury. The project provides hands-on experience in rodent brain anatomy, tissue processing, microscopy, and quantitative image analysis, while contributing to a novel line of research with real clinical relevance.\n\nThis Honours project offers a unique opportunity to study a mammalian model of brain regeneration and uncover new strategies for repairing the injured human brain.\n"},{"project_title":"Cracking the Code of Cortical Folding: Insights from the Subplate","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nMikaela Barresi","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n0409 556 754mikaela.barresi@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The subplate is a transient compartment of the developing brain that appears around 12\u201313 weeks of gestation in humans and is no longer distinct by ~30 weeks. Comparative studies suggest that this layer may contribute to cortical folding, a key process in human brain development. The earliest cortical folds (gyri and sulci) form in consistent locations within a species, indicating strong genetic regulation. The subplate also has a unique extracellular environment enriched in proteins that support neuronal migration and axon growth. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive sulcus formation remain unclear. Recent work from our laboratory suggests that apoptosis (programmed cell death) may help establish sulcal anchor points, while vascular changes associated with folding may also play a role. \n\nIn this project you will use fluorescence imaging and RT-qPCR to investigate apoptosis and vascular changes in the subplate of gyrencephalic species (ferret and sheep) and compare these findings with those from a lissencephalic species (spiny mouse). All tissues required are already available.\n\nThis Honours project offers students the opportunity to develop skills in developmental neuroanatomy, imaging, and quantitative molecular analysis, while contributing to novel research on the mechanisms of cortical folding and their relevance to human brain development and disease. \n\n \n\n "},{"project_title":"Can Spiny Mice Unlock Myelin Repair for MS?","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nBobbi Fleiss","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n0490 172 055bobbi.fleiss@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The adult mammalian brain has limited ability to heal, particularly in conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), where progressive white matter loss leads to motor and cognitive deficits. Remarkably, the spiny mouse can regenerate skin and muscle without scarring and repair brain injuries faster than standard laboratory (C57BL\/6J) mice, with reduced inflammation. Its capacity to repair white matter, however, remains unknown.\n\nThis project will investigate white matter regeneration in the spiny mouse using cuprizone, a compound that induces demyelination when added to rodent chow. Students will identify the optimal cuprizone dose to induce demyelination in spiny mice, compare the extent of demyelination with C57BL\/6J mice, and assess remyelination at one and two weeks post-demyelination.\n\nStudents will gain hands-on experience in neuroanatomy, tissue processing, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, and quantitative image analysis, contributing to research with potential implications for promoting white matter repair in humans."},{"project_title":"Characterising the impact of viral infection in the brain on neuroinflammation and cognitive function","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Melissa Churchill,\nDr Thomas Angelovich","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 6657, melissa.churchill@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 6066 thomas.angelovich@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West Campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza, human cytomegalovirus, Epstein Barr virus and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are global health burdens and have been demonstrated to impact the brain. These infections can lead to brain fog, confusion, memory deficits, motor problems, and, in some cases, dementia. Understanding the mechanisms by which viruses infect and\/or damage the brain is critical to improving health outcomes for individuals impacted by viral infections. \n\nIn this project, students will employ a range of laboratory techniques including immunohistochemistry, qPCR and ELISA on human clinical samples from people with viral infections in the brain to assess neuronal and brain cell activation and integrity. Ex vivo models of human brain tissue will also be used to investigate the fundamental mechanisms of cellular and neuronal dysfunction in the presence of viral infection, delivered using nanoparticle technologies.\n\nFindings from this study will advance our understanding of the mechanisms by which viral infections in the brain contributes to neuropathology and brain disorders."},{"project_title":"Examination of cheaper and more efficient alternative QC techniques for clinically used Nuclear Medicine radiopharmaceuticals ","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Clare Smith,\nDr Alicia Corlett","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0399257414, clare.smith@rmit.eu.au\n0399257414alicia.corlett@rmit.eu.au","campus":"RMIT University Bundoora West","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This project will largely focus on and investigate two currently used Nuclear Medicine radiopharmaceuticals (99mTc-Sestamibi and 99mTc-MAG3) and means to perform the Quality Control (QC) using Thin-layer Chromatography (TLC), which is an alternative method to how it is currently performed using Sep-paks.\nThe QC is important as it determines if the prepared radiopharmaceutical can be administered to a patient. TLC is a preferable QC method, as it is fast, easy to perform, and cheaper than the alternative QC method, which utilises Sep-paks, which are expensive, and single-use. \nTherefore, a developed means to reliably perform the QC for these radiopharmaceuticals using TLC would have significant impact in the current nuclear medicine clinical environment.\nThis work will be performed on small samples with radiation, and the cold (non-radiation) compounds using TLC, Sep-paks, and a TLC-strip reader."},{"project_title":"Investigating DITPA as a Therapeutic for Restoring Neuronal Populations in IUGR","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nMikaela Barresi","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":" 9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n 0409 556 754mikaela.barresi@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition in which a fetus does not grow to its expected size during pregnancy, often due to inadequate nutrient or oxygen supply from the placenta. IUGR is associated with an increased risk of perinatal complications and long-term neurodevelopmental impairments. Affected infants often show reduced brain growth, impaired neuronal maturation, and disrupted cortical circuitry. One potential mechanism is reduced expression of the thyroid hormone transporter MCT8, which limits thyroid hormone signalling and may impair the development of excitatory and inhibitory neurons as well as glial support cells.\n\nThis project will investigate whether neonatal treatment with DITPA, a thyroid hormone analogue that bypasses MCT8, can restore neuronal and glial populations in an IUGR rat model. Neonatal rats were treated with DITPA during the first postnatal week, and brains were collected at postnatal day 35 (adolescent equivalent). Students will perform immunofluorescent staining on pre-cut brain sections to quantify excitatory projection neurons (Ctip2 and Satb2), inhibitory interneurons (parvalbumin and somatostatin), astrocytes (GFAP), and microglia (Iba1).\n\nStudents will gain hands-on experience in immunofluorescence, fluorescence microscopy, quantitative image analysis, and statistical interpretation. This project combines practical laboratory training with the opportunity to explore the therapeutic potential of DITPA for restoring neuronal balance in IUGR-affected brains. The research has direct relevance to improving outcomes for human infants born growth-restricted."}],"discipline":{"1":""}},{"status":1,"result":[{"project_title":"Understanding how the microbiome impacts gut motility in autism","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Elisa Hill,\nProf Ashley Franks","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0434 052 127 elisa.hill@rmit.edu.au\n0477 169 590 a.franks@latrobe.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Gastrointestinal problems including inflammation are commonly experienced by people with autism although the cause is unknown. Many gene mutations affecting the nervous system, including a missense mutation in the Neuroligin-3 gene, are associated with autism (1). It is now well established that the gut microbiome impacts the immune system and gastrointestinal function. \n\nWe hypothesise that Neuroligin-3 mutant mice show altered gut motility which is rescued by treatment with the microbiome-altering drug, AB-2004.\n\nThis project will assess the effect of a microbiome-altering drug (AB-2004) on gut motility in Neuroligin-3 mutant mice and inflammation. Mice will be treated with Dextran Sodium Sulfate (DSS) to cause colitis (inflammation of the colon) and the microbiome will be modified using AB-2004. We will use our published video imaging technique (2, 3) to record gut contractile patterns in an organ bath and detect changes in gut function.\n\nThis project will identify the effects of modifying the microbiome on gut motility in a mouse model of autism and contribute to designing new therapies for clinical applications. \n\n\n1.\tHosie, S., Ellis, M., Swaminathan, M., Ramalhosa, F., Seger, G. O., Balasuriya, G. K., ... & Hill\u2010Yardin, E. L. (2019). Gastrointestinal dysfunction in patients and mice expressing the autism\u2010associated R451C mutation in neuroligin\u20103. Autism Research, 12(7), 1043-1056. \n\n2.\tSwaminathan, M., Hill-Yardin, E., Ellis, M., Zygorodimos, M., Johnston, L. A., Gwynne, R. M., & Bornstein, J. C. (2016). Video imaging and spatiotemporal maps to analyze gastrointestinal motility in mice. JoVE (Journal of Visualized Experiments), (108), e53828.\n\n3.\tAbo-Shaban, T., Lee, C. Y., Hosie, S., Balasuriya, G. K., Mohsenipour, M., Johnston, L. A., & Hill-Yardin, E. L. (2023). GutMap: A New Interface for Analysing Regional Motility Patterns in ex vivo Mouse Gastrointestinal Preparations. Bio-protocol, 13(19)."},{"project_title":"Investigating sex differences in gut function in autism","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Elisa Hill,\nDr Gayathri Balasuriya","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0434 052 127 elisa.hill@rmit.edu.au\n0430 071 515 gayathri.balasuriya@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Gastrointestinal problems are commonly experienced by people with autism although the cause is unknown. Many gene mutations affecting the nervous system are associated with autism. We have previously shown that a mutation in the Neuroligin-3 gene alters the enteric nervous system and causes gut dysfunction in male mice (1, 2). The vast majority of autism research has been undertaken in male mice and very little is known about how females are affected. \n\nIn this project, we will assess for changes in gut anatomy and gastrointestinal contractile patterns. To assess anatomical changes, we will measure small intestinal and colon length, as well as caecum weight in wild type and mutant female mice. To determine if gut contractions are altered, we will use our video imaging technique (3, 4) to compare gut motility patterns in wild type and mutant female mice. \n\nThis research will increase our understanding of gastrointestinal dysfunction in females with autism and contribute to designing new therapies.\n\n\n1.\tHosie, S., Ellis, M., Swaminathan, M., Ramalhosa, F., Seger, G. O., Balasuriya, G. K., ... & Hill\u2010Yardin, E. L. (2019). Gastrointestinal dysfunction in patients and mice expressing the autism\u2010associated R451C mutation in neuroligin\u20103. Autism Research, 12(7), 1043-1056.\n\n2.\tSharna, S. S., Balasuriya, G. K., Hosie, S., Nithianantharajah, J., Franks, A. E., & Hill-Yardin, E. L. (2020). Altered caecal neuroimmune interactions in the neuroligin-3R451C mouse model of autism. Frontiers in cellular neuroscience, 14, 85.\n\n3.\tSwaminathan, M., Hill-Yardin, E., Ellis, M., Zygorodimos, M., Johnston, L. A., Gwynne, R. M., & Bornstein, J. C. (2016). Video imaging and spatiotemporal maps to analyze gastrointestinal motility in mice. JoVE (Journal of Visualized Experiments), (108), e53828.\n\n4.\tAbo-Shaban, T., Lee, C. Y., Hosie, S., Balasuriya, G. K., Mohsenipour, M., Johnston, L. A., & Hill-Yardin, E. L. (2023). GutMap: A New Interface for Analysing Regional Motility Patterns in ex vivo Mouse Gastrointestinal Preparations. Bio-protocol, 13(19).\n"},{"project_title":"Investigating the anticancer activity of novel drugs","leader":"","supervisor":"Magdalena Plebanski,\nSrinivasa Reddy Telukutla","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7263 magdalena.plebanski@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 3976 srinivasareddy.telukutla@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Synopsis:  This project offers honours students an opportunity to work in Cancer Ageing and Vaccines Lab (CAVA) to explore the anticancer effects of newly developed drugs. Metal-based drugs have been a cornerstone of cancer chemotherapy, with cisplatin being one of the most widely used. However, the effectiveness of such platinum drugs is often limited by their serious side effects and the development of resistance in cancer cells. Therefore, there is a constant need to develop new drugs that can overcome these limitations while retaining or improved anticancer activities. This project aims to investigate the anticancer activity of novel drugs in human cancer cell lines, specifically assessing their cytotoxicity, mode of action, and potential to overcome resistance compared to traditional chemotherapeutics like cisplatin. By employing colorimetric cytotoxicity assays, flowcytometry techniques, students will investigate potential anticancer activity of new drugs, providing valuable insights into their potential therapeutic efficacy profiles.\n\nProject Components:\n1.\tCell Culture:  Culture and maintain human cancer cell lines under standard conditions. Seed cells in appropriate culture vessels for cytotoxicity assays.\n2.\tCytotoxicity assays: Treat cells with varying concentrations of novel drugs. Evaluate cell viability using MTT or Trypan Blue assays and calculate IC50 values using dose-response curves.\n3.\tMechanistic Studies. Analyze cell cycle distribution by flow cytometry after propidium iodide staining and assess apoptosis by detecting DNA damage.\n4.\tDrug Resistance Studies: Establish cisplatin-resistant sublines of cancer cells by continuous exposure to increasing concentrations of cisplatin. Compare the cytotoxic effects of novel drugs in these resistant cells to those in non-resistant counterparts.\n5.\tData Analysis: Perform statistical analysis of data using GraphPad Prism. Interpret the results in the context of the potential therapeutic application of the novel drugs.\n\nExpected Outcomes: Identification of novel drugs with significant anticancer activity and lower IC50 values compared to cisplatin. Investigation into the mechanism of anticancer activity of these compounds, including their ability to induce a DNA damage and apoptosis. The potential of these drugs to overcome cisplatin resistance, offers a basis for future therapeutic development.\n"},{"project_title":"Understanding COVID-19 and and the development of autoimmunity.","leader":"","supervisor":"Magdalena Plebanski,\nKirsty Wilson","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7263 magdalena.plebanski@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 8279 kirsty.wilson2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West","program_code":"BH058","positions":"The Cancer, Ageing and Vaccines Laboratory is currently working to better understand the effects and long-term complications of COVID-19 on the immune system. This project compares acute and mild COVID-19 patients over a time course to understand how the virus may be breaking tolerance and causing new autoimmune pathologies.","description":"The Cancer, Ageing and Vaccines Laboratory is currently working to better understand the effects and long-term complications of COVID-19 on the immune system. This project compares acute and mild COVID-19 patients over a time course to understand how the virus may be breaking tolerance and causing new autoimmune pathologies."},{"project_title":"Examination of Undergraduate Nuclear Medicine students' usage and interactions with LMS (Canvas)","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Clare Smith,\nDr Alicia Corlett","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7414 clare.smith@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7414 alicia.corlett@rmit.edu.au","campus":"201.08 but much of this work can be done online\/ remotely","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This research aims to understand the study habits of undergraduate students enrolled in the Nuclear Medicine stream of the Medical Radiations program, by analysing the time spent engaging with the Learning Management System (LMS), Canvas. The study will compare the time spent by students in Canvas, and their final results, with the aim to better understand student behaviours, and if an optimal time widow for engagement and maximised learning is evident. As well, this study will help current lecturers within the Nuclear Medicine team to better tailor their own online content based off this work and ongoing studies. "},{"project_title":"Clinical History Based Imaging","leader":"","supervisor":"Andrew Kilgour,\nRenee French","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 0254, andrew.kilgour2@rmit.edu.au\nrenee.french@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Can be done remotely","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This is a medical imaging based project will look at the differences between clinical history based imaging and protocol based imaging, and use case studies to determine which philosophy produces the best diagnostic results for patients."},{"project_title":"Antiviral approaches for the treatment of dengue virus infection","leader":"","supervisor":"Natalie Borg,\nCharlett Giuliani","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 3743 natalie.borg@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 3743 samie.elmazi@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Dengue is the most common mosquito-borne viral disease in the world, and due to a lack of FDA-approved treatments or efficacious vaccines, represents an ongoing threat to global health. Prior to 1970 only 9 countries had experienced severe dengue epidemics, but the disease is now endemic in more than 100 countries and 3.9 million people are at risk of infection. Dengue virus uses several host cofactors for its replication, and targeting these host proteins offers a way to block viral replication and circumvent the issue of microbial drug resistance. Our experience in the host-virus interface and protein chemistry provides a unique opportunity to identify critical novel host co-factors that interact with dengue virus proteins. In this project we will characterise a new anti-dengue virus host drug target utilising several approaches including RNA interference (RNAi), coimmunoprecipitation, enzymatic assays, analytical ultracentrifugation, and X-ray crystallography."},{"project_title":"Simulated Y-site compatibility of drugs commonly used in Neonatal Intensive care unit (NICU) ","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Ayman Allahham,\nDr Vivek Nooney and Dr Thilini Thrimawithana","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7998 ayman.allahham@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7125 vivek.nooney@rmit.edu.au and thilini.thrimawithana@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Building 201.09.20","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Introduction\nNeonates and Children in younger years in some instances require intensive care support depending on the level of illness. Often patients in this category are unable to use their oral route for medicines and food, due to dependency on respiratory supports requiring intubation, poorly functioning intestines, and regular corrective surgeries requiring continued nil by mouth status.\nFluid balance taking into account input and output of fluids is critical to minimise fluid accumulation. Fluid output is dependent on the kidney function which may also be impacted during times of acute illness such as Septic shock. Sepsis secondary to infection is one of the most common reasons for NICU, along with short-bowel syndrome, bowel perforations and atresia of the oesophagus requiring surgical interventions, meningitis, hydrocephalus, and persistent pulmonary hypertension.\nTo maintain fluid intake and nutrition, intra venous fluids containing higher concentrations of Glucose and electrolytes are often used to minimise the fluid volume. However, patients in NICU often require other IV medicines. Some of the commonly used medicines are calcium gluconate, metronidazole, benzyl penicillin sodium, noradrenaline, adrenaline, milrinone, sildenafil, octreotide, vasopressin and so forth. This creates a need for Y site infusions whereby the medicines being infused come into contact with continuous IV fluids that contain combination of Glucose 10%, Sodium Chloride 0.225% and Potassium 20mmol\/L (GSP). There is a lack of evidence on the physical and chemical compatibility of medicines when they mix at Y -site despite this being practiced in NICU1,2.\nObjectives:\n\u2022\tTo validate the HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) methods or any other relevant methods used to determine the concentration of various medicines commonly used in NICU.\n\u2022\tTo test the physical and chemical compatibility of commonly used medicines in varying concentrations and conditions in combination with key IV fluids like GSP in a simulated Y-site.\nNote: Students working on the project will develop many skills including characterisation, analysis, problem solving, risk assessments as well as research skills and working in a team.\n"},{"project_title":"Study human placental development using stem cells ","leader":"","supervisor":"Professor Guiying Nie,\nDr Yao Wang","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7274 guiying.nie@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7274 yao.wang2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The placenta is a transient yet critical organ that develops during pregnancy to nourish and protect the conceptus. It functions as the gut, lung and kidney of the growing fetus while these crucial organs are still developing, hence optimal development and function of the placenta is critical to fetal growth and well-being. In addition, the placenta produces hormones and other factors to influence the physiology of the mother to support pregnancy. Unfortunately, if the placenta doesn\u2019t develop or function properly, the fetus will be inevitably affected, and pregnancy complications arise. However, we don\u2019t know a lot about human placental development. Recently we have discovered a very special protein that is produced only by the human placenta, and abnormal regulation of this protein is associated with certain pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. In this study, we will leverage placental stem cells (isolated from first trimester placentas) to investigate the role of protein of our interest in placental cell differentiation and function. The study will utilize techniques such as mammalian cell culture, immunofluorescence, ELISA, real-time RT-PCR, CRISPR-CAS9 technology, RNAseq and proteomics. The results will provide important insights into placental development in the human."},{"project_title":"Comparison of digital vs conventional microscopy.","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr. Jane Moon,\nDr. Rosie Zakaria","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0412 609 232 jane.moon@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7668 rosita.zakaria@rmit.edu.au","campus":"223,2,24","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"You will be comparing Cellavision and manual microscopy: two methods used in the laboratory setting to analyze blood samples. They both serve the purpose of identifying and counting blood cells and other cellular features."},{"project_title":"Development of a Digital Educational Intervention to Enhance Safe Use of Complementary Medicines","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr. Wejdan Shahin,\nDr. Thilini Thrimawithana","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7125 wejdan.shahin@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7125 thilini.thrimawithana@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The use of complementary medicines (CMs) such as herbal remedies, vitamins, minerals, and nutritional supplements has become increasingly prevalent in healthcare practices. However, many consumers lack sufficient knowledge about the safety, efficacy, and potential adverse effects of these products. This project aims to address these gaps through the development of an educational intervention.\nThe project will focus on developing a digital intervention specifically designed to improve health literacy and promote the safe use of CMs. Tailored to meet the needs of a high-risk group, the intervention may take the form of an interactive multimedia platform or a mobile application, ensuring that the education provided is both engaging and accessible. \nThe importance of this project lies in its potential to significantly impact public health. By providing consumers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about CMs, the intervention aims to reduce the risks associated with their use and promote safer practices. \n"},{"project_title":"Investigating lipid release in epithelial cell injury models of lung fibrosis","leader":"","supervisor":"Steven Bozinovski,\nChristian Aloe, Jonathan McQualter, Elizabeth Verghese","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 6674 steven.bozinovski@rmit.edu.au\nchristian.aloe@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Building 223, Module D","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This honours project will explore the release of various lipid classes from epithelial cells subjected to different injuries. These models are designed to simulate different pathological conditions contributing to lung fibrosis. The study will focus on three primary inducers of epithelial cell injury: silica (an occupational hazard), oxidative stress induced by cigarette smoke and\/or iron, and polyinosinic acid (PolyIC) as a viral mimetic. \n\nThe project will utilize a combination of cell culture, cell viability assays, ELISA, and PCR techniques to evaluate cell damage, lipid release, and the cellular responses associated with fibrosis. Conducted in the Airways Inflammation Research Laboratory, led by Professor Steven Bozinovski, this research aims to enhance our understanding of the consequences associated with epithelial cell injury, and to elucidate a fundamental driver of lung fibrosis.\n"},{"project_title":"Navigating the Digital Frontier: Newly Graduated Nurses' Experiences with Digital Health Technologies in Clinical Practice","leader":"","supervisor":"Ruby Walter,\nProfessor Karen Livesay","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7429 ruby.walter@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 7070 karen.livesay@rmit.edu.au","campus":"On or off campus - project would involve interviews and is not lab based. ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"How do newly graduated nurses experience and adapt to the use of digital health technologies in their clinical practice, and what challenges and benefits do they encounter?\n\nObjectives:\n\nTo explore the experiences of newly graduated nurses with digital health technologies in their initial practice settings.\n\nTo identify the challenges and benefits associated with the use of these technologies from the perspective of novice nurses."},{"project_title":"Internet of Things smart home system to support the elderly aging in place-A systematic review","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr. Jianxia Zhai,\nProf. Kristine Martin-McDonald","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0451 995 388 jianxia.zhai@rmit.edu.au\n0438 331 417 kris.martin-mcdonald@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora Campus, hybrid","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Background: \nDespite the remarkable development in smart home monitoring technology, a systematic literature review on Internet of Things smart home system implementation in particular barriers and enablers is lacking.  \nAim: \nTo explore current evidence of smart home technologies for elderly care by conducting a systematic review.\nMethods: \nThe systematic review will be conducted in adherence with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 reporting guideline. The systematic literature search is to be performed in electronic databases. Relevant studies will be selected as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Title and abstract screening followed by full text review will be conducted. Qualitative and quantitative synthesis will be undertaken independently by two researchers. \nEthics and dissemination:\n This study will collate and analyse anonymised data from published research and therefore, ethical approval is not necessary. Study results will be disseminated via publication in academic journals.\n\n"},{"project_title":"Bridging Educational Divides: A Qualitative Study of International Nursing Students from Different Education Systems Adapting to Higher Education in Australia","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Ruby Walter,\nRebecca Millar","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 7429 ruby.walter@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 0535 rebecca.millar@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora campus & off-campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This qualitative project would examine the experiences of international nursing students from countries with education systems markedly different from Australia\u2019s, focusing on how they adapt to and navigate the Australian higher education environment. \n1.\tHow do international nursing students from education systems significantly different from Australia\u2019s experience adapting to Australian higher education?\n2.\tWhat specific challenges do these students encounter due to the differences in educational approaches, practices, and expectations?\n3.\tWhat strategies and resources do these students utilize to overcome the challenges associated with these differences?\n\n"},{"project_title":"Characterising the expression of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) during influenza A virus infection in pregnancy.","leader":"","supervisor":"Stella Liong,\nMark Miles; Stavros Selemidis","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7183, stella.liong@rmit.edu.au\n9925 0743; 9925 7182mark.miles@rmit.edu.au; stavros.selemidis@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West Campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Acetylcholine (ACh) is widely known as a neurotransmitter critical for muscle movement, memory, and cardiovascular function. Traditionally associated with the nervous system, ACh is synthesised by the enzyme choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), long thought to be exclusive to neurons. However, a recent shift in our understanding of immunity has emerged that immune cells, including lymphocytes (B and T cells), also produce ACh. Recent studies have revealed that these ChAT-expressing immune cells are not just bystanders, they actively shape the immune response. In viral infections such as influenza and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, ChAT+ T cells help dilate blood vessels, promoting the entry of immune cells into infected tissues. Meanwhile, ChAT+ B cells act as a protective brake, tempering early immune responses to prevent lung damage and severe disease later on.\n\nBut what happens during pregnancy, a time when the cardiovascular and immune systems are dramatically remodelled to support foetal development? These changes, while essential, leave the mother more vulnerable to infections. Yet, the role of ChAT+ immune cells in regulating immunity and cardiovascular function during this unique physiological state remains a mystery.\n\nThis Honours project will investigate: How do ChAT+ immune cells influence maternal immune responses and cardiovascular function during pregnancy? Could they hold the key to protecting pregnant women from severe infections? In this project, using a mouse model, students will quantify ChAT gene expression via qPCR analysis, ChAT protein localisation in tissues using immunohistochemistry techniques, and the characterisation of ChAT-expressing immune cells via flow cytometry following influenza infection.\n\nUncovering the role of these cells may not only advance our understanding of maternal-foetal health but could also open new avenues for therapeutic strategies in infection and pregnancy-related complications."},{"project_title":"Optimising Lipid Extraction Protocols for FTIR-Based Profiling in Simulated Plasma","leader":"","supervisor":"Shekhar Kumta,\nStanley Chan and Ross Vlahos","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"03 9925 7353, shekhar.kumta@rmit.edu.au\n03 9925 7353stanley.chan@rmit.edu.au and ross.vlahos@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora West, 223, level 2, Module D","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Introduction:\nLipids are essential biomarkers for metabolic health and disease, yet conventional profiling methods such as chromatography and mass spectrometry are time-consuming and resource intensive. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy offers a rapid, label-free alternative for lipid analysis, capable of producing molecular fingerprints from small sample volumes within minutes. However, in complex biological matrices like plasma, water and protein signals can obscure lipid-specific absorbances. This project aims to optimise solvent-based lipid extraction protocols to enhance FTIR spectral clarity and enable accurate quantification of lipid classes in simulated plasma.\n\nAims:\n1.\tTo optimised and compare the Folch (chloroform-methanol) and MTBE (methyl tert-butyl ether) extraction methods for lipid recovery and FTIR compatibility.\n2.\tTo develop and validate an FTIR-based spectroscopic workflow for quantifying saturated, unsaturated, and trans lipid classes using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy against high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).\n3.\tTo apply factorial experimental design and statistical analysis to identify optimal extraction conditions.\n\nExpected Outcomes:\nThis project will deliver an optimised lipid extraction protocol tailored for FTIR analysis, enabling rapid and reproducible lipid profiling. The student will develop skills in experimental design, spectroscopy, chromatography, and statistical analysis. The validated workflow has potential applications in clinical diagnostics and biomedical research, offering a faster alternative to traditional lipid assays. The student will also gain experience in method development and validation, preparing them for future work in analytical chemistry, laboratory medicine, or translational research.\nThe student will gain hands-on experience in:\nAnalytical techniques: including FTIR spectroscopy and HPLC for lipid quantification.\nExperimental design and method development: applying factorial design and statistical analysis (e.g., ANOVA) to optimise protocols.\nSpectral data processing: learning baseline correction, peak integration, and multivariate calibration using tools like OriginPro or Python.\nCritical thinking and validation: comparing FTIR results with HPLC data to assess accuracy and reliability. These skills are highly transferable to careers in laboratory medicine, analytical chemistry, and biomedical research."},{"project_title":"Reliability of an AI-based, markerless camera system for quantifying gait and lifting kinematics","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Adrian Pranata,\nA\/Prof Toh Yen Pang","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"+61399251668, adrian.pranata@rmit.edu.au\n+61399256128tohyen.pang@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Markerless, AI-based camera systems can measure how people move without markers or lab suits. This honours project asks a practical question: does one such system give consistent results when healthy adults repeat common movements like walking and lifting?\nYou will work in the Bundoora Biomechanics Laboratory within a research team. You will be recruiting healthy volunteers, set up the camera system, and record short bouts of level-ground walking and \u2018freestyle\u2019 lifting tasks. Each participant will attend on two occasions so we can check how stable the measurements are between each day, a week apart. You will also help process the recordings with the AI software and compare results produced by different student analysts to see if the findings hold up regardless of who analyses the data.\nWe will focus on clear, useful outcomes such as walking speed, step length, and joint and trunk movement during lifts. The goal is to determine whether the system is reliable, has acceptable level of measurement error in a controlled lab setting when compared to laboratory movement assessment system, and to define simple thresholds for \u201creal change\u201d that future studies and clinicians can use. This project has received ethics approval from RMIT Human Research Ethics Committee (ID: 27957). You will be fully trained in the data collection, data analytics, privacy and safety procedures will be provided. A likely output from this project will be a research manuscript and an honours thesis.\n"},{"project_title":"Listening to Shoulders: Understanding the Patient Experience of Shoulder Osteoarthritis with Australian Health Care System ","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Rose Alibazi ,\nDr Adrian Pranata ","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0490467811, rose.alibazi@rmit.edu.au\n+61399251668adrian.pranata@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora west\/ Online ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Shoulder osteoarthritis (OA) can have a profound impact on a person\u2019s ability to manage everyday tasks, sleep, work, and stay active \u2014 yet the voices of those living with shoulder OA are rarely heard in research. This Honours project aims to explore the real-life experiences of people living with shoulder OA in Australia, focusing on their journey through the healthcare system.\n\nThrough one-on-one interviews, you\u2019ll investigate how patients understand their condition, navigate referrals, manage pain, and make decisions about treatment options such as physiotherapy, injections, or surgery. The study will use qualitative research methods to uncover what matters most to patients, what support they value, and where the healthcare system may fall short."},{"project_title":"Can early life COVID-19 lead to obesity or impaired growth?","leader":"","supervisor":"Sarah Spencer,\nSoniya Xavier","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7745, sarah.spencer@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7745soniya.xavier2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"223. Module F. ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"SARS-CoV-2 can cause cognitive and mental health damage in adults that lasts at least months after the initial infection. Recent data suggest that COVID-19 can also influence children long-term and that this influence differs depending upon the age at which they encounter the virus. Data from our team shows that a model of juvenile COVID-19 causes long-term anxiety-like behaviours that are not seen if the challenge is encountered in adulthood. There are sex differences in these effects. In addition to anxiety, we have also seen that female rats given a COVID-like challenge at postnatal day 7 gain less weight than controls while males are unaffected at this age, but male rats given a COVID-like challenge at postnatal day 23 gain more weight than controls. These findings suggest that hypothalamic satiety circuitry may be impacted by an early life COVID-like challenge and that the impact differs depending upon age and sex. These findings have significant implications for weight regulation throughout life, potentially increasing the risk of obesity or delayed growth. \n\nIn this project, you will\n-\tConduct immunohistochemistry for key satiety-related proteins neuropeptide Y (NPY), agouti-related protein (AGRP), pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) in the hypothalamus of rats given a COVID-like challenge at various ages. \n-\tRun ELISAs for circulating leptin,  insulin and free-fatty acids in plasma samples from rats given a COVID-like challenge at various ages. \n"},{"project_title":"Exploring Australian Physiotherapy Clinical Practices in the Management of Shoulder Osteoarthritis","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Rose Alibazi ,\nDr Adrian Pranata ","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0490467811, rose.alibazi@rmit.edu.au\n+61 3 9925 1668adrian.pranata@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT Bundoora West Campus \/ Online ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Shoulder osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of pain and disability in older adults, yet it remains under-researched in physiotherapy compared to hip and knee OA. This Honours project will explore how physiotherapists across Australia diagnose and manage shoulder OA, including clinical decision-making, treatment strategies, and the barriers faced in delivering evidence-based care.\n\nIn this project, you will be tasked to conduct an online survey to capture and analyse clinical practice trends from physiotherapists in Australia on how they manage shoulder OA presentations. Your findings will help shape the future management strategies of this debilitating musculoskeletal condition."},{"project_title":"Astrocyte responses to brain immune changes","leader":"","supervisor":"Sarah Spencer,\nSoniya Xavier","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7745, sarah.spencer@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7745soniya.xavier2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"223. Module F. ","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Each astrocyte has the capacity to interact with as many as two million neuronal synapses. This means astrocyte dynamics in the face of a central nervous system challenge are crucial for brain function. Our previous work has indicated that when the brain\u2019s immune cells, microglia, are depopulated from the brain, astrocytes become more phagocytic than usual (actively consuming dead and dying cells, debris, invading pathogens, and weak neuronal components). This activity could potentially compensate for some loss of microglial function. We hypothesise that astrocytes are strongly responsive to microglial activity and will alter their morphology and gene expression profiles in response to microglial depopulation and to microglial responses to an immune challenge. Manipulating astrocyte dynamics could thus enhance the neuroimmune response with positive implications for treating Alzheimer\u2019s, traumatic brain injury, and other neurodegenerative disorders.\n\nIn this project, you will\n-\tConduct immunohistochemistry and tracing of astrocytes after microglial repopulation and immune challenge. \n-\tAnalyse RNAseq on astrocytes after repopulation using MACS (magnetic cell sorting).\n\nDepopulation is achieved using our Cx3cr1-Dtr transgenic rats. These rats have a diphtheria toxin (DT) receptor knocked in to their Cx3cr1 gene, which is expressed on microglia and monocytes. By giving DT we can ablate microglia. These then spontaneously repopulate the brain by about 7 days at which time our previous data suggest astrocytes are more active. \n"},{"project_title":"Digital Biomarkers for Breast Cancer diagnosis and treatment:  Using Radiomics, Fractal dimension, and AI in Mammography both with to without CM","leader":"","supervisor":"Moshi Geso,\nRicky O'Brian","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0401730320, moshi.geso@rmit.edu.au\n0401730320ricky.obrien@rmit.edu.au","campus":"RMIT University and Monash Medical centre","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"1-\tFor validation or support of diagnosis. In this case 1) Radiomics will be applied on mammographic images and all its parameters will be extracted. This will be extended for many patients [N patients]. A correlation between these parameter values and the diagnosis outcome will be obtained. A parameter which will show consistence in its variation with positively diagnosed cases will be the focus of the study and potentially it can be used as marker. 2) we also propose another Digital Marker called Fractal dimension. Particularly we aim at using Lacunarity factor which can be determined from radiologic images. This is a mathematical model which have been tested for evaluation of images and extracting information about homogeneity which can be linked to tissue abnormalities. 3) Our team currently is involved in Artificial Intelligence models trained on radiologic images to study motoin effects on images during radiotherapy.  We can extend this to study the feasibility of training an AI model to predict abnormalities in images.\nResearch Overview: Enhancing Diagnostic Support through Radiomics, Fractal Analysis, and AI in Medical Imaging\na. Radiomics for Diagnostic Validation\nOur study focuses on applying radiomics to mammographic images to extract a comprehensive set of quantitative features. By analyzing these features across a substantial patient cohort (denoted as N patients), we aim to identify correlations between specific radiomic parameters and diagnostic outcomes. Parameters demonstrating consistent variation in positively diagnosed cases will be highlighted as potential biomarkers, offering non-invasive tools to support diagnostic decisions.\n\nb. Fractal Dimension and Lacunarity as Digital Markers\nWe propose the utilization of fractal analysis, specifically focusing on the lacunarity factor, as an additional digital marker. Lacunarity measures the texture and heterogeneity within radiologic images, providing insights into tissue abnormalities. By quantifying the distribution of gaps or spaces in tissue structures, lacunarity can serve as an indicator of pathological changes, complementing traditional diagnostic methods.\n\nc. Artificial Intelligence in Radiologic Image Analysis\nOur team is actively developing artificial intelligence (AI) models trained on radiologic images to assess motion effects during radiotherapy. Building upon this expertise, we intend to explore the feasibility of training AI models to predict abnormalities in medical images. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, these models can potentially identify patterns indicative of disease, enhancing early detection and treatment planning.\n\nThis integrated approach aims to advance diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes by combining radiomics, fractal analysis, and AI-driven methodologies in medical imaging.\n\n2-\tThis part will deal with images of patients who have been treated via radiotherapy. Again same as the previous steps the three biomarkers will be applied on their CT images & radiologic images  (cone beam CTs if applicable) and determine parameters which correlates with the outcome of the treatment.\nIn Summary: This project involves extraction of digital biomarkers from breast images of patients diagnosed for detection of cancer. These markers will be correlated with the diagnosis outcome to establish a relationship between their values and the diagnosis outcome.\n"},{"project_title":"Early Detection of Sepsis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Using Urinary Biomarkers in an Animal Model","leader":"","supervisor":"Rosita Zakaria,\nStanley Chan, Ross Vlahos and Shekhar Kumta","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"+61399257668, rosita.zakaria@rmit.edu.au\n+61399257353stanley.chan@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West Campus, 223, 02, Module D","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Introduction:\nAcute kidney injury (AKI) is a serious and often silent complication of sepsis, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality in critical care settings (Yang et al., 2025). Traditional markers like serum creatinine are delayed and lack sensitivity for early tubular injury. Recent research has identified a panel of urinary biomarkers\u2014including NGAL, KIM-1, L-FABP, and TIMP-2\/IGFBP7\u2014that may detect renal stress and damage at earlier stages(Rizvi & Kashani, 2017; Yang et al., 2025). This project aims to evaluate the temporal expression of these biomarkers in a large animal model of sepsis and assess their potential for early diagnosis and clinical translation.\n\nAims:\n1.\tTo evaluate the temporal (time course) expression of urinary biomarkers of tubular injury in a large animal model of sepsis. \n2.\tTo identify early predictors of progression to severe AKI. \n3.\tTo assess the feasibility of integrating these biomarkers into a predictive diagnostic assay.\n\nExpected Outcomes:\nThis project will provide critical insights into the early pathophysiology of sepsis-induced AKI and validate urinary biomarkers for early detection. The findings will inform future diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies, with strong translational potential in critical care medicine.\nThe student will gain hands-on experience in:\nBiomarker analysis: using ELISA and HPLC-MS to quantify urinary biomarkers.\nExperimental design and time-series analysis: capturing dynamic changes in renal injury.\nData interpretation and statistical modelling: including bivariate and multivariate analyses to identify predictive markers.\nTranslational research: understanding how laboratory findings can inform clinical diagnostics. These skills are highly relevant for careers in biomedical research, clinical pathology, and translational medicine.\n\nContact Person:\nDr Rosita Zakaria (rosita.zakaria@rmit.edu.au) \u2013 School of Health & Biomedical Sciences;\nDr Stanley Chan (stanley.chan@rmit.edu.au) \u2013 School of Health & Biomedical Sciences\n"},{"project_title":"Study human placental development using stem cells ","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Guiying Nie,\nDr Yao Wang","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7274, guiying.nie@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7274yao.wang2@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The placenta is a transient yet critical organ that develops during pregnancy to nourish and protect the conceptus. It functions as the gut, lung and kidney of the growing fetus while these crucial organs are still developing, hence optimal development and function of the placenta is critical to fetal growth and well-being. In addition, the placenta produces hormones and other factors to influence the physiology of the mother to support pregnancy. Unfortunately, if the placenta doesn\u2019t develop or function properly, the fetus will be inevitably affected, and pregnancy complications arise. However, we don\u2019t know a lot about human placental development. Recently we have discovered a very special protein that is produced only by the human placenta, and abnormal regulation of this protein is associated with certain pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. In this study, we will leverage placental stem cells (isolated from first trimester placentas) to investigate the role of protein of our interest in placental cell differentiation and function. The study will utilise techniques such as mammalian cell culture, immunofluorescence, ELISA, real-time RT-PCR, CRISPR-CAS9 technology, RNAseq and proteomics. The results will provide important insights into placental development in the human."},{"project_title":"Comparing how radiation activates MAPK signalling in melanocyte-derived cells","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Terry Piva,\nA\/Prof Moshi Geso","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 6503, terry.piva@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7991moshi.geso@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Module B Building 223, though some work may be undertaken at ARPANSA, Lower Plenty Road, Yallambie","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"While intense and prolonged exposure to UVR (ultraviolet radiation) or IR (ionising radiation) cause a variety of effects at the cellular level, the effects of lower, more realistic exposure levels to these forms of radiation, specifically in cell signalling pathways linked to cell survival, is not known even though it is highly implicated in aggressive melanoma survival.\n\nMost melanomas are caused by overexposure to solar UV radiation. And like UVR, IR can stimulate ROS formation, which has been implicated as a driving force for alternate signalling pathway activation. However, to date, the cell signalling responses activated in melanocytes to lower doses of UVR has not been explored thoroughly, and practically nonexistent in regards to IR, though recently it has been shown that the latter can stimulate MAPK signalling pathways. \n\nThis project will provide important information on the mechanism by which these forms of radiation activate MAPK signalling via Ras or PI3K\/Akt alone, or is cross-talk occurring.  Students will gain expertise in cell culturing, as well as advanced laboratory skills in biochemistry, radiation biology, cell and molecular biology, while undertaking this project."},{"project_title":"Development of a novel complementary medicine formulation for the management of inflammatory conditions","leader":"","supervisor":"Thilini Thrimawithana,\nAyman Allahham","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"03 9925 7125, thilini.thrimawithana@rmit.edu.au\n9925 7998ayman.allahham@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, impact significantly on a person's quality of life (1-3). In addition, currently used pharmacological therapies are associated with many adverse effects. Therefore, many people consider the use of complementary medicines (CMs) such as polyphenols, curcumin and omega-3 fatty acids to achieve remission of their condition. However, the understanding of the synergistic action of these CMs. \nThe key aim of this project is to:\n-\tDevelop a stability indicating LC-MS method for selected list of CMs\n-\tDetermine the synergistic or antagonistic effects of selected CMs using in-vitro methods\n\nReferences:\n1.\tAlmutairi, K., Nossent, J., Preen, D. et al. The global prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis: a meta-analysis based on a systematic review. Rheumatol Int 41, 863\u2013877 (2021). https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s00296-020-04731-0\n2.\tYakup Kilic, Shahed Kamal, Farah Jaffar, Danujan Sriranganathan, Mohammed Nabil Quraishi, Jonathan P Segal, Prevalence of Extraintestinal Manifestations in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, Volume 30, Issue 2, February 2024, Pages 230\u2013239, https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/ibd\/izad061\n3.\tHildebrandt, X., Ibrahim, M. & Peltzer, N. Cell death and inflammation during obesity: \u201cKnow my methods, WAT(son)\u201d. Cell Death Differ 30, 279\u2013292 (2023). https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41418-022-01062-4 \n\n"},{"project_title":"Can We Regrow the Brain? Insights from a Unique Mouse","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nBobbi Fleiss","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n0490 172 055bobbi.fleiss@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability worldwide, with no effective treatments to restore lost neural tissue. Most mammals, including humans and laboratory mice, respond to brain injury with scarring and limited repair. In contrast, the spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) is a remarkable species with unique regenerative abilities. Unlike conventional rodents, spiny mice can heal skin, muscle, and even spinal cord injuries with minimal scarring. Recent work in our laboratory shows that the spiny mouse brain also responds differently to injury, with reduced tissue loss, less gliosis, and enhanced production of new neurons.\nThis project will investigate the mechanisms that underpin this regenerative response. \n\nStudents will use histology, immunofluorescence, and\/or molecular techniques to compare neuronal survival, axonal repair, and neural progenitor activity in spiny mice versus standard laboratory mice following penetrating brain injury. The project provides hands-on experience in rodent brain anatomy, tissue processing, microscopy, and quantitative image analysis, while contributing to a novel line of research with real clinical relevance.\n\nThis Honours project offers a unique opportunity to study a mammalian model of brain regeneration and uncover new strategies for repairing the injured human brain.\n"},{"project_title":"Cracking the Code of Cortical Folding: Insights from the Subplate","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nMikaela Barresi","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n0409 556 754mikaela.barresi@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The subplate is a transient compartment of the developing brain that appears around 12\u201313 weeks of gestation in humans and is no longer distinct by ~30 weeks. Comparative studies suggest that this layer may contribute to cortical folding, a key process in human brain development. The earliest cortical folds (gyri and sulci) form in consistent locations within a species, indicating strong genetic regulation. The subplate also has a unique extracellular environment enriched in proteins that support neuronal migration and axon growth. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive sulcus formation remain unclear. Recent work from our laboratory suggests that apoptosis (programmed cell death) may help establish sulcal anchor points, while vascular changes associated with folding may also play a role. \n\nIn this project you will use fluorescence imaging and RT-qPCR to investigate apoptosis and vascular changes in the subplate of gyrencephalic species (ferret and sheep) and compare these findings with those from a lissencephalic species (spiny mouse). All tissues required are already available.\n\nThis Honours project offers students the opportunity to develop skills in developmental neuroanatomy, imaging, and quantitative molecular analysis, while contributing to novel research on the mechanisms of cortical folding and their relevance to human brain development and disease. \n\n \n\n "},{"project_title":"Can Spiny Mice Unlock Myelin Repair for MS?","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nBobbi Fleiss","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n0490 172 055bobbi.fleiss@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"The adult mammalian brain has limited ability to heal, particularly in conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), where progressive white matter loss leads to motor and cognitive deficits. Remarkably, the spiny mouse can regenerate skin and muscle without scarring and repair brain injuries faster than standard laboratory (C57BL\/6J) mice, with reduced inflammation. Its capacity to repair white matter, however, remains unknown.\n\nThis project will investigate white matter regeneration in the spiny mouse using cuprizone, a compound that induces demyelination when added to rodent chow. Students will identify the optimal cuprizone dose to induce demyelination in spiny mice, compare the extent of demyelination with C57BL\/6J mice, and assess remyelination at one and two weeks post-demyelination.\n\nStudents will gain hands-on experience in neuroanatomy, tissue processing, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, and quantitative image analysis, contributing to research with potential implications for promoting white matter repair in humans."},{"project_title":"Characterising the impact of viral infection in the brain on neuroinflammation and cognitive function","leader":"","supervisor":"Prof Melissa Churchill,\nDr Thomas Angelovich","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"(03) 9925 6657, melissa.churchill@rmit.edu.au\n(03) 9925 6066 thomas.angelovich@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West Campus","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza, human cytomegalovirus, Epstein Barr virus and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are global health burdens and have been demonstrated to impact the brain. These infections can lead to brain fog, confusion, memory deficits, motor problems, and, in some cases, dementia. Understanding the mechanisms by which viruses infect and\/or damage the brain is critical to improving health outcomes for individuals impacted by viral infections. \n\nIn this project, students will employ a range of laboratory techniques including immunohistochemistry, qPCR and ELISA on human clinical samples from people with viral infections in the brain to assess neuronal and brain cell activation and integrity. Ex vivo models of human brain tissue will also be used to investigate the fundamental mechanisms of cellular and neuronal dysfunction in the presence of viral infection, delivered using nanoparticle technologies.\n\nFindings from this study will advance our understanding of the mechanisms by which viral infections in the brain contributes to neuropathology and brain disorders."},{"project_title":"Examination of cheaper and more efficient alternative QC techniques for clinically used Nuclear Medicine radiopharmaceuticals ","leader":"","supervisor":"Dr Clare Smith,\nDr Alicia Corlett","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":"0399257414, clare.smith@rmit.eu.au\n0399257414alicia.corlett@rmit.eu.au","campus":"RMIT University Bundoora West","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"This project will largely focus on and investigate two currently used Nuclear Medicine radiopharmaceuticals (99mTc-Sestamibi and 99mTc-MAG3) and means to perform the Quality Control (QC) using Thin-layer Chromatography (TLC), which is an alternative method to how it is currently performed using Sep-paks.\nThe QC is important as it determines if the prepared radiopharmaceutical can be administered to a patient. TLC is a preferable QC method, as it is fast, easy to perform, and cheaper than the alternative QC method, which utilises Sep-paks, which are expensive, and single-use. \nTherefore, a developed means to reliably perform the QC for these radiopharmaceuticals using TLC would have significant impact in the current nuclear medicine clinical environment.\nThis work will be performed on small samples with radiation, and the cold (non-radiation) compounds using TLC, Sep-paks, and a TLC-strip reader."},{"project_title":"Investigating DITPA as a Therapeutic for Restoring Neuronal Populations in IUGR","leader":"","supervisor":"Mary Tolcos,\nMikaela Barresi","contact_details":"","discipline":"","group":" 9925 7359, mary.tolcos@rmit.edu.au\n 0409 556 754mikaela.barresi@rmit.edu.au","campus":"Bundoora West (Building 223, Module F)","program_code":"BH058","positions":"","description":"Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition in which a fetus does not grow to its expected size during pregnancy, often due to inadequate nutrient or oxygen supply from the placenta. IUGR is associated with an increased risk of perinatal complications and long-term neurodevelopmental impairments. Affected infants often show reduced brain growth, impaired neuronal maturation, and disrupted cortical circuitry. One potential mechanism is reduced expression of the thyroid hormone transporter MCT8, which limits thyroid hormone signalling and may impair the development of excitatory and inhibitory neurons as well as glial support cells.\n\nThis project will investigate whether neonatal treatment with DITPA, a thyroid hormone analogue that bypasses MCT8, can restore neuronal and glial populations in an IUGR rat model. Neonatal rats were treated with DITPA during the first postnatal week, and brains were collected at postnatal day 35 (adolescent equivalent). Students will perform immunofluorescent staining on pre-cut brain sections to quantify excitatory projection neurons (Ctip2 and Satb2), inhibitory interneurons (parvalbumin and somatostatin), astrocytes (GFAP), and microglia (Iba1).\n\nStudents will gain hands-on experience in immunofluorescence, fluorescence microscopy, quantitative image analysis, and statistical interpretation. This project combines practical laboratory training with the opportunity to explore the therapeutic potential of DITPA for restoring neuronal balance in IUGR-affected brains. The research has direct relevance to improving outcomes for human infants born growth-restricted."}],"discipline":{"1":""}});