Biotron's Tier 2 projects are underpinned by a platform technology: research on ion channels in membranes. These projects are in the research stage of development. Current Tier 2 projects include the following:
Muscion – Development of compounds that target the ryanodine receptor to boost the output of damaged or failing heart muscle. Contraction of muscle, including heart muscle, depends on release of calcium from stores inside cells through calcium channels called ryanodine receptors. In collaboration with researchers at the Australian National University (ANU), Biotron researchers have designed peptides and small molecules that target the cardiac ryanodine receptor, stimulating heart muscle contraction in vitro. These compounds are potential therapeutics for cardiovascular disease, and are being assessed for their ability to reverse heart failure in appropriate disease models.
Hypoxion – Development compounds that reduce damage in cells deprived of oxygen caused by vascular catastrophes such as heart attack and stroke. This research is based on regulating the activity of sodium channels that are opened as a result of hypoxia.
Genetrans – Developing drug-screening tests for the transport protein MRP2 that will help predict the metabolism and safety of new pharmaceuticals.
Gabion – Development of compounds that act on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the central nervous system for the suppression of epileptic seizures, and to provide tranquillizers and a new general anaesthetic.
