Frauman group

General Research Areas: Thyroid diseases, Prostate diseases, Growth factors and cancer

The following projects are investigated by the Frauman group:

1: Is the TSH receptor the target autoantigen of Graves’ ophthalmopathy?

We have detected the TSH receptor in normal human extraocular muscle, i.e. this may be an autoantigen in Graves’ ophthalmopathy, which affects extraocular muscle.  We are currently examining functional effects of the TSH receptor at this site.

Researchers currently working on project:
Mr Steven Kloprogge, Prof Albert Frauman

Contact details for project:
Prof Albert Frauman: albertf@ unimelb.edu.au

2: The role of CD151 in the progression of prostate cancer

We have discovered that the tetraspanin CD151 has increased expression in prostate cancer of increasing grade and that it is a prognostic marker for prostate cancer.  We are examining the role of CD151 expression in terms of cell proliferation and cell function. 

Researchers currently working on project:
Ms Jian Ang, Ms Sujitra Detchokul, Brad Newell, Prof Albert Frauman

Contact details for project:
Prof Albert Frauman: albertf@ unimelb.edu.au

3: The role of ATIP in the regulation of growth factor induced cell proliferation

We are investigating the role of the novel AT2-receptor interacting protein, ATIP, in regulating the proliferative and hypertrophic effects of Ang II and growth factors in prostate cancer, diabetes and heart failure.

Researchers currently working on project:
Dr Simon Louis, Miss Lin Wang, Mr Laurie Chow

Contact details for project:
Dr Simon Louis: simonnsl@ unimelb.edu.au