MESSAGE FROM THE ACADEMIC DIRECTOR
I am pleased to share with you the latest Kolling Institute newsletter, a collection of stories demonstrating the invaluable research progress taking place within the institute. It offers an insight into our diverse teams,
Our researchers have led ground- breaking work identifying a new gene linked the Meniere’s disease, launched a clinical trial to prevent knee osteoarthritis with lifestyle measures, and a program for culturally diverse communities experiencing pain. We are focusing on 20 years of progress by the John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research which has assessed the true impact of road traffic injuries and the best ways to recover from a motor vehicle collision. The John Walsh team has helped to reform the CTP injury compensation
On a personal note, I recently returned from a trip to NASA in Houston where I had the opportunity to discuss our MuscleMap project which could revolutionise the detection and treatment of a variety of conditions and diseases impacting human health, performance and wellbeing. We are developing a diagnostic tool which could inform treatment for everyone from elite athletes to astronauts and older people with complex conditions. As part of the study, we have produced a dataset of muscle health from head to toe. This will enable a patient’s muscle deterioration to be compared with a healthy person’s within minutes of uploading a scan. It is very rewarding to be part of this innovative project. Next month, we will host the Eva Kolling Research Day within the foyer of Royal North Shore Hospital. The day will involve presentations and poster displays, and provide the opportunity to reflect on our past and celebrate our current research success. I would like to encourage everyone to become involved in the June 12 event, which we hope will attract strong community engagement. Professor James Elliott
their latest wins and our internationally respected investigators.
Encouragingly, our researchers are improving our understanding of complex and challenging conditions, and improving the quality of care we all receive. This edition details the substantial funding flowing to our researchers, new scientific breakthroughs and the launch of a number of exciting clinical trials. There’s a new program targeting insomnia as a first-line treatment for musculoskeletal pain, an international consortium to support those with heart and kidney disease, and close to $3 million for research to revolutionise treatment for acute myeloid leukaemia by targeting stem cells. A landmark clinical trial is being launched following a $14.7 million grant to Royal North Shore Hospital clinician researcher Professor Nick Pavlakis and Professor Ben Solomon to explore the use of a liquid biopsy to inform treatment for lung cancer. The pioneering study will place Australia at the forefront of global precision medicine for lung cancer treatment.
scheme in NSW which is a remarkable achievement.
Importantly, work is progressing on the development of the next Kolling Institute Research Strategy which represents a refresh of the existing strategic framework and a greater focus on inclusivity. A series of consultative meetings are being held following the completion of three externally- led workshops. I would like to thank everyone involved for their valuable advice and engagement. The Kolling Institute’s steering committee is helping to drive progress, with the approved strategy scheduled to be launched in November. The document is expected to align with both the local health district and the University of Sydney’s vision for research growth.
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KOLLINGNEWS | MAY 2025
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