The Pitch: Round 1 winner, applications open for Round 2

Congratulations to Dr Julia Boehme (Immunology), Erskine Chu (Neuroscience) and Marissa Sgro (Neuroscience) for being awarded funding in Round 1 of The Pitch for their project Exploring the Brain-Bladder-Immune Axis.

Around 69 million people sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI) each year, representing a significant economical and healthcare burden. Brain injuries increase susceptibility to infections, with urinary tract infections (UTIs) among the most common bacterial infections after TBI.

The impact of TBI on the immunological micromilieu in the bladder is currently unknown. Moreover, details of the effects of UTI-triggered inflammatory responses on behaviour and brain physiology are missing. Understanding the brain-bladder-immune axis and its role in TBI-associated UTIs is vital for developing future therapeutic and diagnostic options for both diseases.

The primary aims of this collaborative, interdisciplinary research project are to:

1. Characterise the impact of TBI on the bladder micromilieu; and
2. Assess the impact of UTI on behaviour and brain physiology.

The three researchers will receive $25,000 from the GIN Discovery Program Seed Grant to complete the project.

Round 2 applications are open now. Submissions close 7 June and the shortlisted proposals will be presented on 22 June. Further details on how to apply for The Pitch can be found here.