Unlocking human cell mysteries

Unlocking human cell mysteries

Joint research by the University of Queensland's School of Pharmacy and the National Heart Foundation of Australia is trying to unlock the mysteries surrounding human cell calcium ?pumps' which may be linked to some common diseases.

The calcium ?pumps' naturally remove unwanted calcium in human cells; and when less active than normal, are believed to be associated with high blood pressure and breast cancer.

According to Lecturer in the University's School of Pharmacy, Dr Greg Monteith, the two-year study could lead to the development of new drugs which ensure these calcium ?pumps' work correctly, thereby reducing the incidence of serious health problems.

Dr Monteith said the research team was using a new, state-of-the-art fluorescence imaging system capable of measuring calcium in living cells.

"Most people know that calcium is important for teeth and bone development, however the abnormal regulation of calcium in the body can cause problems."

"Drugs used to treat high blood pressure prevent calcium coming into cells (called calcium channel blockers), but there are no drugs that regulate the activity of the calcium ?pump' which lets calcium out of cells."

Dr Monteith's study at the University of Queensland is an extension of research he undertook in the United States last year.

"The design of new drugs to keep human cell calcium ?pumps' working as they should could be 10 or 12 years away, but we hope our research will be the basis for this important development," he said.

The University of Queensland was named Australian University of the Year in 1998 and is a recognised leader in medical and health-related research and teaching.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:Greg Monteith telephone 3365 7442