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Published by susan.sims, 2018-09-11 22:50:12

2018 Annual Report

OMRF 2018 Annual Report

2018
Annual Report



CONTENTS

Object of the Foundation.......................................2
Chairperson’s Report.................................................3
Funds Given......................................................................6
Researcher Profile - Rajesh Katare.................7
Supporter Profiles........................................................8
Director of Development’s Report.................10
Funds Raised.....................................................................11
A Night to Remember...............................................12
2018 Golf Tournament.............................................13
Club Otago.........................................................................14
The Council........................................................................16
Professor Greg Jones................................................17
Foundation Members...............................................18
Scientific Committee Report...............................19
Financial Highlights.....................................................30
Auditor’s Report............................................................32

Charities Number: CC33444

OMRF.ORG.NZ

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 1

OBJECT OF THE
FOUNDATION

There is not one person alive today who has
not benefitted from medical research.

The Object of the Otago However, in the world of medical research what the
Medical Research Foundation: Foundation launches cannot be underestimated. Once
the furtherance of medical that initial research has been completed and the answers
research in Otago. reported, it often opens up new areas of investigation for
bigger entities to develop.
We fund world class research, equipment and facilities
for Otago’s highly talented medical community of So the research never stops and many of our esteemed
scientists, students, practitioners and lecturers. alumni are now global leaders in their medical fields.

Our recipients contribute invaluable medical knowledge EVERYONE BENEFITS
that can be applied to medicine and prevention in the FROM MEDICAL RESEARCH.
future, and in doing so we also retain top medical talent
and intellectual property in Otago. There is not one person who has not benefitted from
answers found through medical research.
MEDICAL RESEARCH IS A
LIFE CHANGER. Whether that be personally, through parents or children,
YOU’RE A LIFE CHANGER. partners or siblings, work mates or their friends. We will
all know many who wouldn’t be with us had it not been
The answers unearthed through medical research for the discoveries made and the earlier diagnosis and
irrefutably lead to greater quality of life for society less invasive treatment that research unveils.
– through earlier diagnosis and treatment. Since the
Foundation was established in 1967, it has identified It is irrefutable that from medical research we all benefit.
and funded more than $8.5 million worth of grants and
scholarships, with much of the work undertaken now
acclaimed around the world.

The lives of tens of millions of people have ultimately
been improved by the research funded by the Otago
Medical Research Foundation, made possible
by you, our generous supporters.

IT ALL STARTS
SOMEWHERE.

The Foundation helps to fund medical
research projects and scholarships which
are highly novel and scientifically worthy,
but due to their early exploratory nature
don’t attract the interest of larger funding
agencies.

2 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

CHAIRPERSON’S
REPORT

$361,2712018 GRANTS TOTALLED

2018 BEQUESTS

$152,979

$8,897,968TOTAL AMOUNT FUNDED*
*Since the Foundation’s inception

It is with pleasure that I present year. Part of the decrease in Research Grants can be
the 50th Annual Report on attributed to $23,899 of Grants previously recorded
the Otago Medical Research as approved, being cancelled. It would be good to
Foundation’s activities for the see an increase in the receipt of further injections of
2018 financial year. capital for investment, which would to help counter
the reduced investment rates that we earn on our
During the year under review, the Foundation conservatively invested funds.
approved Grants totalling $361,271 a decrease of
$114,253 on last year’s total of $475,524. Since the The Investment Sub-Committee has continued to face
Foundation’s inception, a total of $8,897,968 has been the challenge of finding suitable low risk investments
spent on Medical Research in Otago. while acknowledging that income and growth are also
important. Fixed interest markets continue to remain
Before commenting on other matters I would mention challenging with subdued yields on offer in the secondary
with sadness, the sudden passing in December of market and a supply /demand imbalance between new
one of the Foundation’s most loyal supporters: Karen bond issues and maturing securities. It is pleasing to
Bardwell. Karen’s contribution to the Foundation is report that at balance date, the market value of our
mentioned in a tribute on page 8. Company Securities and Shares shows an unrealised gain
on cost of $835,068, which is 18.73 % of cost.
The extract from the Financial Statements, as published
elsewhere in the Annual Report, shows a surplus for At 31 March, 2018, Accumulated General Funds total
the year of $159,202 compared with a deficit for the $422,780 and Accumulated Special Funds $4,676,407,
previous year of $10,703 meaning that the result a total of $5,099,187, both these figures comprising
is $169,905 better than last year. Two contributing Capital and Income.
factors to this result are a Legacy received of $152,979
and Research Grants being $114,523 less than last This year marked the 21st year in which the Otago
Community Trust has awarded an Annual Grant to
the Foundation with the details of grants awarded
from this year’s funding being published in the

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 3

CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT Scientific Committee Report. This brings the total At the Annual General Meeting, held on 12th
grants received from the Otago Community Trust to September, 2017, Judy Bevin and Michael Mine who
$1,491,000 a truly generous contribution. On behalf had been Co- opted members of Council were declared
of all members of the Foundation and all Researchers elected as Elected Members of Council as was Sharon
based in Dunedin I would like to sincerely thank the Knowles. Sharon is a Partner in Anderson Lloyd,
Otago Community Trust for their very generous, and Lawyers and brings her legal expertise to Council.
much needed, contributions.
CHANGE OF RULES
The Foundation is deeply indebted to those people who
have named the Foundation as a beneficiary in their Those attending the Annual General Meeting will be
wills. Medical research is a never ending activity and asked to vote in support of changing some of the rules
the role of the Foundation will continue as long as there which were last revised in December, 2012.
are medical scientists willing to ask critical questions
and people willing to help fund these researchers in The main changes relate to Clause 7, Scientific
their quest for the vital answers. I would ask members Committee and have been suggested by Pat Cragg to:
to consider the Foundation when preparing their wills.
A bequest to the Foundation will be effectively used 1. Reflect name changes within the University
and your influence will be felt beyond your lifetime.
2. Allow for the Deputy Chairperson of the Scientific
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR Committee to be a Council Member as of right
PAT CRAGG rather than a Co-opted Member as at present
and to put a structure in place regarding the
On Tuesday, 6th March, 2018, due to her impending appointment and length of term for the Deputy
retirement from the University on 31st May, 2018, Chairperson.
Pat Cragg attended her last Council Meeting, thus
signalling an end to her association with the Otago Changes have also been made to reflect changes in
Medical Research Foundation dating back to 1988. technology, to fine tune some administration matters
Pat joined the Foundation both as a Councillor and as and to clarify the position and rights of Employees and
a member of the Scientific Committee, of which she Contractors attending meetings of Council.
became Chair 3 years later, and continued in that role
until her final Council meeting. There has been no change to the object of the
Foundation which remains as “The furtherance of
In view of that outstanding contribution, Council medical research in Otago” and there will be no real
unanimously agreed to the appointment of Pat as an change in the way it will continue to operate under the
Honorary Life Member of the Foundation at her last proposed changes.
Council Meeting and presented Pat with a Certificate
of Life Membership and an appropriate farewell gift. The proposed changes have been approved by Council
to go to the AGM for Members approval.
In supporting the awarding of a Life Membership to
Pat, one Council member noted that “the amount THANKS
of work Pat undertakes on the Foundation’s behalf
is quite staggering” and this truly summed up Pat’s Firstly, to all those Trusts, Companies, Individuals,
contribution. Members and Non –Members listed in this Annual
Report who have supported the Foundation in the year
On behalf of everyone associated with the Foundation under review. The Foundation is very grateful that it
I wish Pat and Steve a very long and enjoyable has continued to receive the support that it has in these
retirement. continuing difficult economic times.

Professor Greg Jones, who has been on the Scientific To the Foundation’s Director of Development, Susan
Committee for 16 years, and been Deputy Chair Sims and our Events Manager, Steve Davie, my sincere
since 2014, has been appointed Chair of the Scientific thanks for your efforts during the year. As Susan will
Committee to replace Pat. agree it has been a steep learning curve for her in
her first year in the role. We were indeed fortunate
COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP that Steve agreed to stay with the Foundation in the
role of Events Manager, thus enabling Susan to get to
There have been 2 resignations from Council Members grips with her new role while knowing that the main
since the last AGM, Assoc Prof Pat Cragg, an Ex – fundraising events would continue on as previously
Officio member and Prof John Highton, an Appointed under Steve.
Member. Pat’s contribution to the Foundation has been
mentioned previously in this report and I thank John Susan’s report can be found on page 10.
most sincerely for his contribution over many years.

4 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

To the Scientific Committee and their longstanding and provide very professional, friendly and efficient CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT
dedicated Chairperson, Associate Professor Pat Cragg administration services for the Foundation. Mike and
for the many long hours spent on the assessment and Megan are the face of Deloitte for the Council while
advice on grant applications to ensure a transparent Trudy and Josh are the backroom team, ensuring that
and robust process which ensures the Foundations the Foundations day to day requirements are attended
funds are used in the best possible way. to in a timely and professional manner and your efforts
are very much appreciated.
With the retirement of Pat Cragg, as mentioned
previously, we welcome Professor Greg Jones and look Since the Council meeting on 6th March, Megan has
forward to him continuing in this role for some time. taken up a position at the Otago Polytech and while
her efficiency and pleasant manner will be missed, on
Thank you; your efforts are really appreciated. Without behalf of Council, I wish her all the best for the future.
you all we would not be able to achieve the object of Josh Cuming has moved out of the backroom team and
the Foundation, “The Furtherance of Medical Research will take over the work so ably performed by Megan
in Otago”. and with his background on Foundation matters I am
sure that the changeover will be seamless.
To all Council Members, and our Patron, Emeritus
Professor Gil Barbezat, for your contribution and This report signals the end of the 1st 50 years of the
support, my sincere thanks for your continued interest Foundation and we look forward to our 2nd 50 years
in, and work done, for the Foundation. and a continuation of our activities relating to “The
furtherance of medical research in Otago”.
To my fellow Investment Sub-Committee members,
Mike Horne, Michael Milne and Judy Bevin for their On behalf of the Council,
wise counsel, advice and time so willingly given to serve
on this Sub-Committee, I thank you most sincerely. Ken Dempster

To the Deloitte team of Mike Horne, Megan Vintiner, Chairperson
Trudy Corbett and Josh Cuming for continuing to

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 5

FUNDS GIVEN

Of scholarships, grants, trust grants,
Laurenson grants and Jack Thomson grants

SUMMER SCHOLARSHIPS Neuro/Brain Oral Health
Heart
$12,000 $8,000
$13,000
Immunity/ Community
Drug Microbiology Health
Development
$4,000 $12,000
$4,000
Cancer Cells
Bacteria
Resistance $8,000 $8,000

$5,000

ANNUAL GRANTS LAURENSON

Cells $15,000 Gut Health $30,000
Neuro/Brain $57,920 Pregnancy $25,000
Bacteria Resistance $34,219 Drug Development $25,000

OTAGO COMMUNITY TRUST JACK THOMSON

Osteoporosis $6,000 Joint pain $23,699
Neuro/Brain $26,428 Osteoarthritis $20,153
Immune System $20,000
Drug Development $12,000 Rheumatoid Arthritis

$35,000

6 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

RESEARCHER PROFILE:
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
RAJESH KATARE

Around 465 million people in the world suffer from
diabetes – it is a growing health problem.

The Otago Medical Research “The good thing about Dunedin
Foundation is playing its part research is that it is very
in looking at ways to combat collaborative, which is
this global health crisis, through the envy of some of our
financial support to the overseas colleagues;
University of Otago. we conduct our
investigations
Associate Professor Rajesh Katare from the University’s alongside clinicians
Department of Physiology has had an OMRF grant, with and people in the
support from the Zonta Club of Metropolitan Dunedin, community with
to investigate diabetes and its role in chronic heart diabetes.”
failure. His research has the potential to help prevent or
delay heart disease, and ultimately save lives. “We are now
publishing papers
The research had three components: on our research in
prestigious journals
• Identify the mechanisms through which diabetes because of the
can damage the heart Foundation’s funding,
which then means we can
• Search for easily detectable biomarkers that develop bigger projects
circulate in the blood so that diabetes-induced at a higher level; we’re now
damage to the heart can be detected early, before fortunate to attract funding from
there are clinical signs. One of Associate Professor a variety of sources.”
Katare’s projects is working with paediatricians
and children with type one diabetes to see if heart “The good thing about
disease risk can be detected very early Dunedin research is that it is
very collaborative, which is the
• Develop personalised therapies based on envy of some of our overseas
commercially available biomarker tests that help colleagues; we conduct our
primary health providers work with patients investigations alongside
to prevent heart problems. Such therapies can clinicians and people in the
make changes to suit lifestyle, or pre-clinical community with diabetes”
manipulations can be introduced that will delay
or prevent heart disease. Currently cardiac stem ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
cells treatment is being investigated as a promising RAJESH KATERE
treatment

“We’re lucky to have good long-term data – some of our
samples collected from 11 years ago presents very good
opportunities to look at any changes in heart health and
corresponding changes in biomarkers in the blood,” he said.

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 7

MEET SOME OF THE
SUPPORTERS BEHIND
THE FOUNDATION

KAREN BARDWELL AND Foundation Director of Development Susan Sims said
SELECT RECRUITMENT the Foundation was thrilled that Select had chosen to
continue to support the work it was doing.
Select Recruitment is continuing the
legacy of one of the OMRF’s most “We respected Karen’s drive and her support for
loyal supporters. us; her commitment to and enthusiasm for the work
of our researchers and scholarship recipients was
Foundation patron Karen Bardwell, who sadly passed truly extraordinary. While the company support
away in December 2017, was Managing Director carried a business angle, it was her personal interest
of recruitment companies Select Recruitment and in the discoveries being made which really fired her
Oyster Executive Recruitment, and responsible for imagination. We are proud that Select’s support for on-
going research will continue the legacy.”
Oyster’s sponsorship of the annual Night to
Remember fundraising dinner. THE BRENSSELLS

Supporting the Foundation was Dunedin PaperPlus owners John
important to Karen, not only and Jacqui Brenssell say supporting
for the far-reaching studies it the Otago Medical Research
underpinned and the difference Foundation is a great way of being
that research made, but also involved with the community.
because it was a very positive
way of supporting talent Medical research has an important
and helping young people to place in Dunedin, so supporting
establish their careers. these studies is one way of
giving back, it also helps to
Select Commercial Business make sure the vibrancy of
Manager Dean Delaney has being a University city
confirmed Select’s continued continues.
support as principal sponsor for the
Night to Remember event in 2018, and Their PaperPlus
as an associate sponsor for Club Otago. business hosts book
events, donates prizes
As Dean pointed out, anyone who knew Karen knew for Foundation events,
she was passionate about the city and economic and has sponsored
development and was proud to be part of something that several scholarships.
was making such a difference. “Karen thought sponsoring
the Foundation was a fantastic way to support Dunedin, Jacqui says having such a
and we agree – we wanted to see it continued.” strong link with the Foundation
is something they appreciate. “It’s
“We can see that supporting the fundamental ‘ripper nice to be able to use our resources to
rugby’ of start-up research can kickstart brand new give back.”
areas of understanding the human condition and is very
important to those beginning their careers in science - “We enjoy hosting book events and the feedback we
everyone benefits. Karen’s family and the team at Select get from supporters of the Otago Medical Research
all felt the need to re-commit to be a strategic sponsor Foundation is that they value the opportunity to meet
– it’s an arrangement that provides value for both to our some of their favourite authors – hosting cooking
business and for the Foundation’s good work.” celebrities Nadia Lim and Chelsea Winter for instance
were very popular.”
“Giving back is an important part of being in business, and
we are pleased to tell our clients we are sponsoring the She likes the fact that they are helping improve health,
Foundation to play our part in the community we live and
work in. It’s something all businesses should be doing.”

8 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

given the Foundation’s research touches everyone. “We Helping mothers and children is particularly close to
all have an interest in health after all.” Eterei’s heart. As a mother herself, she is particularly
conscious that years of research into childbirth paved
“Our input helps to support grassroots projects that the way for safe caesarean births, and that research
may not have otherwise got off the ground – that can continues to find new innovations.
potentially discover something really significant. It’s
great to think we have a part to play in having that kind “Someone was brave enough to pioneer a new way of
of impact.” doing something, and someone else was equally brave in
believing and investing in them. We’re grateful for that,
“Our daughter who works in the health profession could and we want to be the ones that also put their hand up and
be seeing the benefits of something we’re contributing to.” say we trust in your good idea and want to help,” she said.

“And at the same time it also supports a young researcher “We appreciate that the Foundation funds worthy
- we’re giving young people a start, giving them the research, and we’re pleased to have the opportunity to be
opportunity to test their skills and abilities on something part of it – it’s our legacy of giving back.”
new to see where it might take them.”
JAN WARBURTON
“We’re always fascinated when we read the updates on
just what our scholarship student is studying.” Giving talented young people an
opportunity to develop is important
It’s a positive relationship for us, for the Foundation and to Otago Medical Research
for the community. Foundation sponsor Jan Warburton.

THE STONELAKES Jan is passionate about the arts, and a well-known long-
time supporter of the development of contemporary
Everyone benefits from medical art in New Zealand through her charitable
research, and that’s one of the Trust. Many aspiring young artists have
reasons why Justin and Eterei benefitted from her support.
Stonelake have chosen to support
the Otago Medical Research It seems like a natural progression
Foundation. to extend that altruism and to
sponsor researchers through
The couple own the three McDonalds restaurant the Foundation’s summer
franchises in Dunedin, and as such are regularly called on studentship programme.
to support worthy community projects. She has committed to the
studentship sponsorship over
But helping to fund medical research is something they five years.
are particularly proud of, simply because they know how
much it makes a difference, both in their own community, Jan, a retiree living in Dunedin,
and to world knowledge on human health. says it’s good to be involved
in something that is a uniquely
“As members of our community, and as employers, we Dunedin/Otago thing.
have a responsibility and willingness to help in a proactive
and positive way.” “I have the opportunity to do something,
and I enjoy helping where I can, so this is
Sponsoring a summer studentship, and a positive way to give back. Giving young New
providing prizes and financial support Zealand people a hand, where they are emerging artists
for the Foundation’s events is the or potential researchers, gives them a taste of what
Stonelake’s way of recognising that is possible, and helps them to develop their skills and
local research investment can extend their talents. It’s rewarding.”
potentially help a lot of people.
“One of my daughters studied health sciences a few
The couple gives credit to the years ago and did a summer scholarship so we know
Foundation’s leadership role first-hand the benefits of the programme; it’s great to be
in creating awareness of their in a position to help other people to have that research
research, why it is important opportunity.”
to the community, and how to
become involved. “It’s interesting to see the array of studies the Foundation
funds each year, and to get a report on each of the
As they point out, the life we projects I have supported – including one on feeding
all lead benefits from the work premature babies. It’s a good way to feel involved in
previous medical researchers the project, and to know your support has made a little
have started. difference.”

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 9

A REPORT FROM
THE DIRECTOR OF
DEVELOPMENT

2018 finds the Otago Medical The Scientific Committee is the cornerstone of the work
Research Foundation marking of the Foundation. Professor Greg Jones is the newly
50 years of funding medical appointed Chair of the committee, taking over from
research in Otago. Assoc. Professor Pat Cragg who did a wonderful job
at the helm. The committee assesses each and every
I have thoroughly enjoyed my early days as the new application for research funding and scholarships, and
Director of Development. It has been a steep learning selects the very best to ensure that the Foundation is
curve with understanding the relationships we have supporting the students, researchers and projects which
across the research community and our supporter base will have genuine impact.
in my first role in the charitable sector. I have appreciated
and enjoyed the support and sharing of institutional One of our biggest challenges is to convey to the wider
knowledge that has come my way in these first months. public of Otago, what we do. Even after 50 years funding
local research, many people here in Otago do not realise
My predecessor, Steve Davie, has continued to work with how much medical research is happening right here on
the Foundation as Event Manager running our major their doorstep. We need to further promote our work
events. I appreciate the tireless work that Steve does in and that of the researchers we support, to provide
his role, further building on his success with the Night to better understanding and increase the support base for
Remember, Club Otago and golf day, to bring in funding research across all parts of our region.
so necessary for the Foundation.
To this end we made the decision to update our logo
The commitment of our donors and loyalty to our cause and design with the help of Glow Consulting, who have
is extraordinary. The genuine interest they take in our worked with us to develop cohesive, fresh branding to
work is heartening and their generosity is humbling. underpin our work. We’re delighted with the new look,
You will see a small selection of supporter profiles in this based on the colours that are immediately recognisable
year’s report indicative of the breadth of support the as those of the Otago region. As we look to further grow
Foundation is so grateful for. our support base across the region, you will see more of
the stories from our supporters and researchers, with the
new branding in place.

My sincere thanks to the OMRF Council, a committed
group of highly skilled governance experts chaired by Ken
Dempster, who bring a variety of business and academic
skills to the OMRF table. I also want to acknowledge the
terrific behind-the-scenes support provided by Deloitte;
diligent portfolio management by Craigs Investment
Partners, who ensure our financial position is healthy;
and Crowe Horwath, our auditors. This level of expert
support provides our funders with confidence in the
continued longevity of the Foundation and the impact of
their donations.

I look forward to the coming years with great enthusiasm.
It makes me proud to see the students and researchers
we support, advancing their careers and contributing to
the body of knowledge internationally, across a broad
range of medical conditions. We are a proactive funder,
with a track record of supporting excellence in innovative
medical research.

Susan Sims

Director of Development

10 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

FUNDS RAISED

A Night to Community Grants 2018 Golf
Remember and Donations Tournament
$84,064 $247,135
$20,086

Club Otago $550,032 Bequests
$45,768 $152,979

GRANTS: Otago Diabetes Trust DONATIONS: Kiwi Karma
John Levido
RD & B Calvert Paper Plus Dunedin F J Austin Lion Foundation
Charitable Trust G Barbezat G Lowry
Southern Victorian Karen Bardwell J Mortimer
Crowe Horwath Charitable Trust (in memory of) Richard Roberts
Mike Bird & friends SpecSavers Dunedin
Deloitte The Healthcare Otago J Burton M Turner
Charitable Trust Caversham Pharmacy Dr & Mrs GP White
A Goulding S O Chin S Wilbanks
The Otago M Coleman S Wilkinson
Hughes Family Trust Community Trust A Cook KG Wilson
K Dempster (in memory of)
J & E Stonelake Werribee Trust (Wyn Gilmour Motors
& Dorothy Chirnside) AC & KM Greave
JAD Iverach S & N Jones
Memorial Fund William Downie Stewart
Charitable Trust
J N Lemon
Charitable Trust

BEQUESTS:

Ethel Johnston Charitable Trust
Estate Frances Kennedy Miles
S A Rowley

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 11

EVENTS

A Night to Remember 2018

A Night to Remember 2018 The night’s sponsors were Select Recruitment (Naming
certainly lived up to its billing Rights), OceanaGold NZ, Vero Liability, Southern Trust
(all Associate) and Forsyth Barr, NZI, Misha’s Vineyard,
Our speakers – Mao’s Last Dancer Li Cunxin and Armstrong Prestige, Metro Realty (Sharon Hyndman &
cricketing legend Sir Ian Botham – provided a perfect Kees Meeuws), Crombie Lockwood, Liquorland Leith Street
balance, the generosity of our sponsors and donors, and & Andersons Bay, and Anderson Lloyd (all Supporting
those who bought raffle tickets and bid in the auction Partners).
ensured a record sum of nearly $110,000 was raised, the
wining and dining was world-class, and Shane Cortese Auction items were donated by Michelle Chalklin-Sinclair
and his 8 Track Band had the dance floor jumping in a (The Artist’s Room), Skyline Enterprises, Farry Riddell
two-hour grand finale. Consultancy, the Jack’s point, Cromwell and Queenstown
Golf Clubs, Experience Dunedin, Highland Helicopters,
Li enthralled the 450-strong audience with his story of Steev Peyroux, Misha’s Vineyard, celebrity chef Al Brown,
growing up in abject poverty in rural China, the moment Hannagan & Grieve Travel Associates, Air New Zealand,
in time when he was chosen to attend Madame Mao’s Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant, Lani Hagaman (Scenic
dance academy, his defection to the west and the Hotels), Armstrong Prestige, New New New Corporation,
resulting political fallout, his success as a dancer and his Stu Stevenson.
life now in resurrecting the Royal Queensland Ballet.
Our raffle donors were Whitestone Cheese, Skin Health
His speech was pure inspiration and he received a Studio, Suits on Wall St, Rialto Cinemas Dunedin,
standing ovation. MAHER Shoes, Preens Drycleaners,
Nova, Klone Hair,
In a Q & A joyride, Sir Ian gave us an insight into his life as Amisfield Vineyard &
a cricketing superstar in the 1980s, how he mixed it with Bistro, Farmers.
the best and his superb work over many years in raising
money for children affected by leukemia … in 16 long-
distance walks over 20 years Sir Ian has raised almost
£40-million with the research undertaken resulting in
real progress in fighting the disease.

It was a fantastic night of
emotion, entertainment and
enlightenment, and we were
privileged to host two
genuine identities.

12 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

2017 Foundation Golf Tournament

After a wet and cold week, the weather gods relented and Park Trotting Club, the Dunedin Casino, John Griffin at
produced perfect conditions for the Foundation’s eighth Jack’s Point, Mitchell’s Tavern, ANZ Private, Fraser & Lisa
annual golf tournament, staged again in association with at inGOLF Dunedin, helloworld Dunedin, Click Property
OceanaGold NZ Ltd on the picturesque St Clair course. Management, Chris Timms, the Orokonui Ecosanctuary,
Forsyth Barr, Fulton Hogan, Magoo Auto, Armstrong
A record entry of 29 teams contested this year’s Prestige, the Brothers Hotel and Specsavers Dunedin.
tournament with the event played as ambrose under
Florida Scramble rules. And the individual team entries are also acknowledged -
Ken & Liz Dempster, the defending WhatsoEver team, Lab
There were closest to the pin prizes on each of the Par 3 Supply Ltd, Select Recruitment, Signature Property, Mike
holes, a closest to the pin with players’ second shots on Bird, Heath Johnson, Fulton Hogan, Chris Timms and a
the 11th green, a straightest drive up the 2nd fairway, and team representing the Foundation.
a longest putt competition on the 18th green.
It was a terrific day out!
Through the support of OceanaGold (our naming rights’
sponsor), our hole sponsors, team entries, prize donors and THE RESULTS WERE:
the players’ generosity on the day with the longest putt
promotion and raffle, just over $20,000 was raised – this • Closest to the pin: 4th – Richard Fogarty, 7th – Ray
to be directed towards a research project in mid-2018. Hall, 13th – Owen Diack, 16th – Mark Tuten.

Almost $150,000 has now been generated through the • Closest to the pin (2nd shot on 11th) – Eric Bygate.
tournament since the small, inaugural event in 2010 with
much of the study established as a result of significance. • Straightest drive – Bruce Grant.
Funds raised at the 2016 event have been invested in
an investigation about the part the brain plays in the • Longest putt – Kevin Sullivan.
effects of menopausal women, while the study set
alight from the 2015 tournament continues to make TEAM RESULTS:
progress in determining how to make the body’s immune
system better tuned to fighting solid cancerous tumours • 1st: playing off a handicap of 6.625, nett score of
which can be resistant to traditional chemotherapy and 54.375 – Forsyth Barr (Peter Young, Jeremy Anderson,
radiotherapy treatment. Adam Gain, Will Young)

The day’s sponsors were OceanaGold NZ Ltd, the Tarn • 2nd: 5.5, 55.5 – RD Petroleum
Group, Unichem Mornington Pharmacy, Mr Patrick
Dawes and Dr Alan Wright (Marinoto Clinic), Deloitte, • 3rd: 9.875, 56.125 – Mitchells Tavern
Palmers Mechanical, Southern Colour Print, Craigs
Investment Partners, Armstrong Prestige, McDonald’s • 4th: 9.75, 57.25 – Polson Higgs
Dunedin, Payless Energy, Forsyth Barr, Polson Higgs, RD
Petroleum and Myers Marketing. • 5th: 4.75, 58.25 – Myers Marketing

Appreciation is also extended to our prize and • 6th: 8.25, 58.75 – Otago Medical Research Foundation
refreshment sponsors and others who played a part
today: Calder Stewart Industries, Dr Brian McMahon, • 7th: 10.125, 58.875 – OceanaGold NZ # 1
Dr Jenny McMahon, Maher Shoes, Aravin Vineyard,
Valspar New Zealand, Rialto Cinemas Dunedin, Gardens • 8th: 5, 59 – Palmers Mechanical
New World, Stu McCullum (Wilson Staff Golf), Forbury
• 9th: 6, 59 – the Tarn Group

• 10th: 1.625, 59.376 – Chris Timms

• 11th: 6.625, 59.375 – Whatsoever Ltd

• 12th: 7, 61 – Mornington Pharmacy

• 13th: 6.625, 61.375 – Gardens New World

• 14th: 7.625, 61.375 – Mike Bird

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 13

OMRF CLUB OTAGO
LUNCH SERIES

The Club Otago lunch series continues to be a jewel
in the Foundation’s fundraising crown.

Since the first lunch in April identity and passionate Dunedin advocate Ian Taylor,
2012, almost $500,000 has who talked about his success with Animation Research
and his unwavering backing of the proposed Dunedin

been generated through Steamer Basin development, and former New Zealand
and Welsh Rugby Union chief executive David Moffatt,
members’ annual subscriptions
and the popularity shows no whose thoughts on where the game is heading were a
reminder that rugby may well be in serious trouble.

sign of abating. It is desperately sad to report during the year the passing
of one of Club Otago’s most dedicated (and,

indeed, of almost every event staged by

The first lunch of the year featured a JOIN US the Foundation) supporters. Oyster
celebration of the 1950, 1959, 1966 Executive Recruitment and Select

and 1993 Otago rugby teams, To join Club Otago, simply go to Recruitment founder Karen
which had all toppled the visiting our website omrf.org.nz/club-otago/ Bardwell died early on Boxing
British and Irish Lions sides. The and fill out the form or contact Susan Day morning, leaving behind two
oldest living All Black, Otago’s
Ron Elvidge, who played in the Sims at [email protected] bereft families – her sons, parents
and siblings, and her work family

1950 match, was honoured by Membership of Club Otago is open to who she loved almost as much.
way of video tribute while the anyone. Membership fees cost as little
’59, ’66 and ’93 teams were all Karen was a friend to thousands
represented by players in person. as $250 per year, of which all and an influence in and on
goes towards funding Dunedin we never for a moment
On the eve of the Highlanders medical research. contemplated losing so soon.

beginning their own tradition with their

win over the 2017 Lions, this lunch was

a special observance of the occasions and the

players who created a slice of Otago sporting history.

Our other speakers during the year
were the Prime Minister Bill
English in his first week of
campaigning for the 2017
general election, business

14 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

Our members in the 2017/2018 year were:

PATRONS

SENIOR Barbara Bridger Stuart McLauchlan Mike Bird (Storesafe Ltd)
FELLOW (Otago Community Trust) (GS McLauchlan & Co)
Bill Haydon (Roman
Otago Polytechnic Octagon Dental Carl Spruyt (YBT: Catholic Diocese of Dunedin)
Suite (Yash Khan) Coaching & Consulting)
FELLOW Craig McGregor
Otago Orthodontics Simon Parker
Ross & Bev Middlemass (Emily Lam) (Parker Warburton Andy McLean
Allied Press Team Architecture) (Yellow Pages Group)
Deloitte Fred Daniel
McMahon Investments John White Keith Cooper &
Carpet Court Dunedin Nigel Thrush (Telfer Electrical Otago) Iain Mackay (Miller
NZME (Specsavers Dunedin) Creative Group)
RD Petroleum Noel Davie (Strategic Pay)
Stu Stevenson Russell Cassidy John & Jacqui Brenssell
(Staley Cardoza Lawyers) Jono Bredin (PKF Bredin (Paper Plus Dunedin)
ASSOCIATE McCormack Rewcastle)
FELLOW Phil Moore (Westpac) Maggie Burgess
Hannah Catchpole (Polson Higgs)
Hong Kong Bank Hudson Biggs (Otago Racing Club)
Forsyth Barr (Accounting & Finance Ltd) Dr Paul Templer (Sandman
SF Waller Family Trust Brenda Allum (Sports Anaesthesia Services)
Jenepher Glover Adam Binns Medicine New Zealand)
Living Corporation (Adam Binns Commercial) Signature Property
Brian Stevenson Ross Gamble (Neil & Jamie Lyons)
Markhams Otago Donna Gale (NZI) (Roslyn Storage)
Immersion Marketing Nadene Moore
Seperex Nutritionals Malcom Farry (Farry Group) James Lovelock (International
Harvie Green Wyatt (Webb Farry Lawyers) Freight Logistics)
Tom West
INDIVIDUAL (Tom West Risk Advisers) Dr Rod Keillor Sergio Salis
(Marinoto Clinic) (London Street Specialists)
Janine Young Mark Hammer
Wyn & Dorothy Chirnside (ASB Commercial) Malcolm Dore (Magoo Crombie Lockwood
(Werribee Trust) Auto Dunedin) (Lynn King)
Rod McMeeken Murray Hughes
(The Brothers Hotel) (Aotea Electric) Sharon Hyndman Judy Bevin (J Bevin Ltd)
Michael Milne (Metro Realty)
(Craigs Investment Partners) Adam La Hood Chris Timms
(Cook Brothers Construction) Sherman Weatherall (Craigs Investment Partners)
(Agility Logistics)
Dave McPhedran Dr Norman & Mrs
(YBT: Accounting) Justin & Eterei Stonelake Barbara Fitzgerald
(McDonald’s Dunedin)
Andrew Carmody Dean Collins
(helloworld) Russell Quin (Colliers International)
(Quintessentially
Dave Callon (Share) Financial Services) Grant Chirnside
(Southern Realty)
Sarah Saunderson-Warner Mr Will McMillan (McMillan
(Barrister & Solicitor) Medical Specialists) Alan & Denise Preston
(Bedpost Dunedin)
Dr Kay Bradford Prof Michael Schultz
(Gastroenterology Otago) Ray Grubb (Morgan GR
Steve & Tricia Gillies Tourism Management)
(Gillies Financial) Peter & Paula Anstey
Steve Cogger
Martyn Ballantyne & John Richard Roberts (Black Rock Consulting)
Larsen (Suits on Wall Street) (Dunedin Airport)
Garry Clarke
Mike Pearce John Freeland (Arbi Monograms)
(Strawberry Sound) (AON, Mosgiel)

Adam Gain (Metro Realty)

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 15

THE OTAGO
MEDICAL RESEARCH
FOUNDATION COUNCIL

EX OFFICIO ELECTED MEMBERS DIRECTOR OF
MEMBERS DEVELOPMENT
Mrs J Bevin
Assoc Prof PA Cragg Dr M Coleman Ms S Sims
Mr K G Dempster
Chairperson of Mrs S Knowles EVENT MANAGER
Scientific Committee Mr M Milne
Mr S Davie
Mr M C Horne CO-OPTED MEMBER
SECRETARIES
Deloitte (Secretaries) Mrs S Ramsay
Deloitte
Prof G Jones EXECUTIVE
HONORARY
Chairperson of Mr KG Dempster SOLICITOR
Scientific Committee
Chairperson Mr J Anderson
Prof B Taylor
Assoc Prof PA Cragg (Gallaway Cook Allan)
Dean Dunedin School of Medicine
Deputy Chairperson AUDITORS
Prof V Ward
Deloitte representative Crowe Horwath
Dean Otago School of
Biomedical Sciences Secretary/Treasurer PATRON

APPOINTED SCIENTIFIC Emeritus Professor
MEMBERS COMMITTEE Gil Barbezat

Dr P Gootjes Assoc Prof PA Cragg

NZ Medical Association Chairperson to 1st June 2018
(Otago Division) Physiology Department
School of Biomedical Sciences
Prof J Highton University of Otago

General Medical Staff, Prof G Jones
Otago District Health
Board (to 4th July 2017) Chairperson from 1st June 2018
Department of Surgical Sciences
Dr N Millar Dunedin School of Medicine

Otago District Health Board

Prof A van Rij

Otago University
Faculty of Medicine

Dr L Wise

President of the Otago Medical
School Research Society

16 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

PROFESSOR OBJECT OF T
GREG JONES FOUNDATIO

Professor Greg Jones is the new Chair of the
Scientific Committee for the Otago Medical
Research Foundation.

Along with the wonderful work “Global screening
he does voluntarily for the OMRF, programmes are
Professor Jones’ focus is on based on a belief that
research projects based in aortic aneurysms are
the Department of Surgical a disease primarily of
Sciences in the Dunedin men. This assumption
School of Medicine. will have to change.”

Professor Jones, and a team of University of PROFESSOR
Otago researchers have developed a process GREG JONES
that could revolutionise aneurysm management
– and save lives. An aneurysm – a blood-filled
bulge in a weakened blood vessel wall – is most
commonly found in the aorta. Often described as
“ticking time bombs”, aneurysms can be managed
if they are detected early. There are aortic aneurysm
screening programmes for those considered high risk,
but Professor Greg Jones says the 30mm measurement
used to define an aneurysm is based on the average size of
blood vessels in men. This does not account for differences
in body size, particularly in women. When blood vessel
measurement is adjusted to reflect body size, his team
showed that men and women have similar risk.

“The New Zealand study clearly showed we are
underestimating the true prevalence: women and smaller
men have more chance of having an aortic aneurysm than
health professionals previously realised.”

This is a particular problem in New Zealand, with a high
prevalence of Ma¯ ori women who smoke and are, therefore,
at higher risk. “Using this false assumptio n has likely
contributed to a health inequality.”

The researchers are working with a national consortium of
vascular surgeons on a pilot study to test a new screening
programme with standards taking body size into account.
The bench-to-bed research has taken a basic interest
in biology through to community health delivery. “It’s a
game changer that will save lives, but the discovery is
controversial, as global screening programmes are based on
a belief that aortic aneurysms are a disease primarily of men.
This assumption will have to change.”

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 17

OTAGO MEDICAL
RESEARCH
FOUNDATION
MEMBERSHIP

ORDINARY MEMBERS Prof D.C.G. Skegg Dr R S Henderson
Dr Wayne Sutherland Janssen-Cilag Pty Ltd
Prof W C Abraham Dr M Turner Mr R Lewis
Ashburn Hall Charitable Trust * Dr & Mrs G P White Lions Club Dunedin South
Dr F J Austin * Dr Sigurd Wilbanks Ms S Mackinlay
Dr Gil Barbezat Mrs S M Wilkinson * Marsh Family Trust
Mr J Burton Mr T J Williams Mr D Marsh
Caversham Pharmacy (2005) Ltd Prof D Wilson Mrs E Marsh
Dr S O Chin * Dr R A Wright Mr G J Marsh
Mr E J Chronican * Dr M E Wyatt Mr W J Marsh
Dr J I Clayton Dr A I Yelavich Dr J A McMahon
Dr Michele Coleman Mondelez New Zealand
Dr Alison Cook * Indicates Founder Member Northern Southland
Mr K G Dempster Transport Holdings Ltd
Dr J M Faed RESEARCH PATRONS Schering NZ Ltd
Fairmaid Chance & Crawford Roche Products (New Zealand) Ltd
Mr Malcolm Farry Hope & Sons Limited St Margaret’s College Council
Peter Gootjes Otago Asthma Society Inc. Mr I A Thomson
Prof A Goulding Mr H R Wilson & Mrs N Ellis
Dr Merilyn Hibma LIFE MEMBERS
Mrs L Homersham HONORARY LIFE
Mr M Horne Mrs J Callon MEMBERS
Mrs E Howie Cerebos Gregg’s Ltd
Mrs N S Jones Mr P Chronican Mr G T Adams
Dr R B Keillor Ciba-Geigy New Zealand Ltd Mr & Mrs L J Brown
Associate Prof I L Lamont Mr S Davie Assoc Prof P A Cragg
Prof A C B Molteno Donaghys Ltd Mr P C L Gibson
Prof J G Mortimer Dunedin City Council Prof J I Mann
Dr J Ng Farra Engineering Ltd Rotary Club of Dunedin South
Assoc Prof D Oorschot Mr & Mrs H Fraser Rotary Club of St Kilda
Ms S Saunderson-Warner Dr C M Goodall Dr C N A & Mrs J Trotman
Healthcare Otago Ltd

18 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

SCIENTIFIC
COMMITTEE REPORT

1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018

1. MEMBERSHIP Dr Nick Heng (Co-opted)

Chair: Associate Professor Pat Cragg Associate Professor Keith Ireton (Co-opted)

(Nominee of the Otago School of Associate Professor Rajesh Katare (Nominee of
Biomedical Sciences) until 31 May 2018
the Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, June 2018)
Professor Greg Jones
Associate Professor Ivan Sammut (Co-opted)
1 June 2018 onwards
Dr Damian Scarf (Co-opted)
Deputy Chair: Professor Greg Jones
Dr Jon Schemmell (Nominee Otago Medical School
(Co-opted) until 31 May 2018; replacement pending
Research Society, until July 2017)
Dr Hesham Al-Sallami (Co-opted, November 2017)
Professor Rob Walker (Co-opted)
Dr Andrew Bahn (Nominee Otago
Dr Joanna Williams (Co-opted)
Medical School Research Society)
Dr Lyn Wise
Dr Chris Brown (Co-opted)
(President Otago Medical School Research Society)
Dr Cathy Chapple (Co-opted)
Dr Stephanie Woodley (Nominee Otago
Dr Heather Cunliffe (Co-opted)
Medical School Research Society, March 2018)
Professor Bob Hancox (Nominee Dunedin

School of Medicine, until mid-May 2018)

The Scientific Committee is primarily concerned with The baton has been passed to the experienced Deputy
adjudicating on applications for Research Grants and Chair, Professor Greg Jones, who has been a member of
on applications from students for Summer Research the Scientific Committee since 2003. In June 2018 the
Scholarships. To cover the breadth of topics submitted, committee welcomed Associate Professor Rajesh Katare
the committee is relatively large to ensure it has as the new nominee of the University of Otago’s School
representatives from all the major sub-disciplines of of Biomedical Sciences, replacing Associate Professor Pat
medical research. Cragg who had held that position since 2004.

In the middle of 2017 there was one resignation from the Note: Most, but not all research projects, have protocols
committee: Dr Jon Schemmell who joined the committee that require approval by the appropriate Ethics or Safety
in March 2016, and we thank him for his input; and very Committee prior to commencement of the research.
recently (mid-May 2018) Professor Bob Hancox resigned Agreement by the Foundation to fund research projects
and we thank him for his considerable input since 2005. is thus subject to receipt by the Chair of the Scientific
From late 2017/early 2018 we welcomed from the Committee of a letter from the University of Otago’s Animal
University of Otago Dr Hesham Al-Sallami, a co-opted Ethics Committee, Human Ethics Committee or Human Ethics
member to represent the School of Pharmacy, and Dr Committee (Health) (or the Ethics Committee of a Health
Stephanie Woodley as the nominee of the Otago Medical Funding Authority) indicating that the research has received
School Research Society: and commencing July 2018, full ethical approval. Work involving genetically modified
Dr Sierra Beck, as the nominee of University of Otago’s organisms requires evidence of approval from ERMA or
Dunedin School of Medicine. A vacancy for a nominee from the University of Otago’s Institutional Biological Safety
of the Otago Branch of the NZ Medcial Association Committee.
continues. At the end of May 2018 Associate Professor
Pat Cragg retired from the University and relinguished The scientific activities of the Foundation (advertising of
her position as Chair of the Scientific Committee which up-coming grants and listings of awards) can be found on
she had held since 1992 (with membership since 1989). the following web site www.omrf.org.nz

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 19

SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE REPORT 2. SUMMER RESEARCH SIMONE THOMAS
SCHOLARSHIPS 2017/2018
(Professor Vernon Ward
One hundred and ten applications (compared with & Ms Vivienne Young,
104 the previous year) for an OMRF summer research Department of Microbiology
scholarship were received from the University of Otago & Immunology, School
in late August 2017, of which 19 (cf 23 last year) were of Biomedical Sciences,
recommended for funding by the OMRF (and at least 55 University of Otago)
of the other applicants gained scholarships from other
funding bodies or the Division of Health Sciences and its Title: Does a human norovirus protein
Schools; other sources and departmental studentships disrupt the host cell replication cycle?
ensured a further 20 students also engaged in summer
research). Of the 19 students funded by the OMRF, two (Stonelake Scholar)
were studying biomedical science, two dentistry, five
medicine and ten science. It should be noted that the ten- Renshaw Prize Winner for the best OMRF summer research
week summer research is not part of the study required scholar report
in a student’s tertiary qualification and any data obtained
during the summer research cannot contribute to the Noroviruses are a major cause of gastrointestinal illness.
dissertation or thesis of such a qualification. Because human noroviruses are hard to grow in culture,
many studies use murine (mouse) norovirus (MNV). A
Each OMRF scholarship was worth $4,000 except for murine norovirus protein called VPg can disrupt the
the two students with the highest scores who were host cell cycle. This study asks if human Norwalk virus
awarded named Summer Research Scholarships ($5,000) (NV) VPg also has the same activity. This required the
– named in honour of the late Allan Wilkinson and the expression of a tagged version of NV VPg in cells to allow
late Emeritus Professor Garth McQueen. Allan was detection of the protein and determination of the effect of
Secretary of the Foundation from its inception in 1967 that protein upon the cell cycle. NV VPg with a detectable
until his retirement in 1993 and Garth was a foundation peptide tag was expressed in cells and confirmed as being
member of the Foundation and one of the instigators of able to disrupt the cell cycle, similar to MNV VPg. This
the formation of the Foundation’s Auxiliary. One of the result is the first step in translating the research from a
projects was funded from the Foundation’s Iverach Fund, mouse model to human norovirus. Having a NV VPg that
another was administered by the OMRF but sponsored can be detected will facilitate studies into the mechanism
by the Otago/Southland Diabetes Research Trust and by which the protein has this effect.
one was funded by existing OMRF funds.
HAMISH
Due to the continuing sponsorship drive of the OMRF, all AITKEN-BUCK
the other 14 OMRF scholarships were funded by: Ailsa
Goulding, Deloitte, Healthcare Otago Charitable Trust, (Dr Peter Jones, Department
Hughes Family Trust, Jan Warburton, Paper Plus, RG & B of Physiology, School
Clavert Family Trust, Southern Victorian Charitable Trust of Biomedical Sciences,
(5), Stonelake and Werribee Trust. The involvement of University of Otago)
Otago commercial companies and the Otago community
for a seventh year in supporting summer research by Title: Novel regulator
tertiary students is very much appreciated. of heart function, protein kinase G, has no
functional effect on the key cardiac Ca2+
The OMRF summer research scholars also attended a very release channel, despite altering its structure
successful two-day Workshop in Science Communication
(27-28 November 2017) run specifically for the (Southern Victorian Charitable Trust Scholar)
OMRF by the University of Otago’s Centre for Science
Communication. One outcome of the workshop is the Commendation for an excellent summer scholarship report
production of short videos about each research project,
which can be accessed via the OMRF website: omrf.org.nz The release of calcium (Ca2+) from stores inside cardiac
muscle cells is critical to heart contraction. Under
All scholars returned good to excellent reports at the end certain conditions, such as a stress response, the
of February 2016. The Renshaw Prize ($250) for the best extent of Ca2+ release is enhanced by modifications
report was awarded this year to Simone Thomas, who to key Ca2+ -handling proteins by enzymes that are
worked under the guidance of Professor Vernon Ward minimally active at rest. One such enzyme, protein
of the Department of Microbiology & Immunology. Two kinase G (PKG), is thought to play a role in this cardiac
students also received commendations. stress response; however, specific protein targets
for PKG-driven modification remain ambiguous.
The following is a list of the summer scholars and Furthermore, whether PKG-driven modification
summaries of the projects undertaken – additional translates into altered Ca2+ release remains to be seen.
information on these projects can be obtained from the To address this, we perfused cells expressing the key
Chair of the OMRF Scientific Committee or from the Ca2+ -release protein, the ryanodine receptor (RyR2),
supervisor concerned. with a PKG-activating solution. We found that PKG can
modify the structure of RyR2 at a novel site, although

20 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

this did not translate into a change in RyR2-driven Ca2+ resistance (compared to parental strain) towards 45 SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE REPORT
release, suggesting that PKG changes the contraction compounds and increased resistance towards 23.
of the stressed heart via a mechanism independent of However, the evolved lines had reduced resistance
direct changes in RyR2 function. against 4 compounds, suggesting potential collateral
hypersensitivity hits. Ultimately, this hints at new
SHREYA BIR strategies to combat antibiotic resistance, without
demanding novel drug design.
(Associate Professor
Rajesh Katare, Department WILLIAM CLARK
of Physiology, School
of Biomedical Sciences, (Professor Michael Colombo,
University of Otago) Department of Psychology,
Division of Sciences,
Title: Revolutionising University of Otago)
the diagnosis of diabetic heart disease
Title: Neurons in a
(Otago/Southland Diabetes Research Foundation higher visual area of the
Scholar) pigeon brain respond selectively to faces

Tiny molecules in the blood, known as microRNAs, are (Alisa Goulding Scholar)
hoped to be the future in diagnosing the early stages of
diabetic heart disease (DHD), a common and often fatal Our ability to recognise a face is dependent on a
heart condition. Current techniques are invasive, have series of highly specialised neurons. Prosopagnosia (a
limited reliability, and with over 80% of diabetics dying difficulty in recognising faces) and Alzheimer’s disease
from heart disease, the development of a quick blood test impair the normal function of these neurons. To
may prevent many unnecessary deaths. Blood samples provide novel treatments for individuals affected by
were taken from volunteers who had had diabetes these disorders, we require a greater understanding
for varying lengths of time, and the levels of specific of how faces are processed by the brain. Our primary
microRNAs-1, -34a and -208a were measured. It was aim was to develop a non-primate animal model for
found that for patients, who were taking first-line diabetic disorders of facial recognition. We hypothesised
medications, microRNA-1 (a marker for cell death in the that neurons would respond only to images of faces.
heart) and microRNA-34a held the potential to detect We trained nine pigeons to discriminate between
DHD. MicroRNAs are still a very new and exciting area two image sets that included pictures of faces and
of research and holds the promise to provide solutions non-face objects while recording from neurons in
to many medical problems and open new avenues of the visual system. No neurons were found that only
research that we may not yet be able to imagine. responded to faces. However, we demonstrated that
three unexplored areas of the pigeon brain contain
STEPHANIE CHO high proportions of visual neurons. Further research
is required to determine how these areas of the avian
(Dr Wayne Patrick, brain process faces.
Department of
Biochemistry, School NATSUKO
of Biomedical Sciences, FUSHIDA-HARDY
University of Otago)
(Associate Professor
Title: All hope may not Keith Ireton, Department
be lost: potential vulnerability in antibiotic- of Microbiology and
resistance microbes Immunology, School of
Biomedical Sciences,
(Garth McQueen Scholar) University of Otago)

As microbes speed ahead, evolving resistance to all Title: Investigation into the role of cell
known clinical antibiotics, new drug development microtubules and proteins in Listeria
lags behind, and our hopes to gain an edge in the infections in humans
‘antibiotic arms race’ diminish. However, recent
research shows that the evolution of resistance comes (Southern Victorian Charitable Trust Scholar)
with an exploitable underlying vulnerability: resistance
against one antibiotic provokes increased sensitivity Listeria entry is mediated by the interaction of bacterial
to others. Known as collateral hypersensitivity, surface protein InlB with the human tyrosine kinase
this project aimed to explore this phenomenon. receptor Met. Unlike the host actin cytoskeleton, the role
The opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus aureus of host microtubule cytoskeleton in the entry of Listeria
was evolved to be resistant to three antibiotics while remains poorly understood. In a recent PI3K kinase
in parallel, collateral hypersensitivity towards 72 pathway screening, depletion of LL5α (PHLDB1) and
different antimicrobials was also assessed. From this LL5β (PHLDB2) caused a significant reduction in entry
profiling, the evolved strains showed no difference in of Listeria. I sought to investigate whether microtubules

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 21

SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE REPORT are required for the re-localisation of LL5 proteins from ability to suppress shedding of particles from host cells.
focal adhesion points to the sites where InlB interacts
with Met. I also examined the role of host microtubule ANNE JUDE
regulating protein CLASP2 in translocation of the
LL5 proteins. Treatment of cells with a microtubule (Dr Dawn Coates, Dr Gemma Cotton, Professor Warwick
depolymerising agent resulted in a slight decrease in the Duncan & Ms Syarida Safii, Sir John Walsh Research
recruitment of LL5α and LL5β recruitment around InlB Institute, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago)
coated beads.
Title: Nanosilver as an antimicrobial for
REES GUISE dental implants

(Dr Fiona Doolan-Noble, (Southern Victorian Charitable Trust Scholar)
Professor Tim Stokes & Mr
Kyle Forde, Department of Everybody loses teeth eventually. When this happens,
General Practice and Rural dental implants can be screwed in, supporting an
Health, Dunedin School of artificial tooth. If jaw bone healing fails, implants fail.
Medicine, University of Otago) Moa Bone® (MB) is a product from cattle found to
increase human jaw healing, securing implants.
Title: How do GPs use codes in their However, there is a high chance of infections.
electronic medical records to indicate that a To solve this, we turn to nanotechnology. Silver
patient has a learning disability? nanoparticles destroy bacteria but may also be harmful
to human cells. Our aim was to find concentrations
(HealthCare Otago Charitable Trust Scholar) of nanosilver where human gum cells are still alive.
We found such concentrations do exist, revealing
General practitioners (GPs) use a code made up of silver nanoparticles to be no more harmful than
numbers and letters to represent characteristics about Chlorhexidine, a dental mouthwash. We now know
patients which they record in medical records. For that nanosilver can be both harmful to bacteria and safe
patients with learning disabilities (LDs), it is thought for human cells. The next step is to combine the silver
coding happens less frequently. This study aims to nanoparticles with MB, creating a product that allows
identify common codes used to identify those living people to retain the implants that replace their missing
with LDs, the barriers to coding, and to determine if teeth – safe healing without infection.
provision of preventive health services varies between
those living with and without LDs. Information was CAMERON KEELTY
gathered using a survey and a clinical audit. The READ
codes used by participating GPs to identify those living (Dr Bill Hawkins, Department
with LDs were similar to those used by British GPs. of Chemistry, Division of
Barriers to READ coding were comparable to those in Sciences, & Professor Parry
the literature. Those living with LDs were more likely to Guilford, Department
be smokers but less likely to receive support to quit. This of Biochemistry, School
gap in the provision of smoking cessation support we of Biomedical Sciences,
have identified requires further research as it points to University of Otago)
healthcare inequalities.
Title: A new paradigm in drug design
JESSICA HARTE
(Otago Medical Research Foundation Scholar)
(Associate Professor Merilyn Hibma & Ms Allison
Tschirley, Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Several compounds were developed to test for potential
Medicine, University of Otago) treatment of E-cadherin tumours, which is hypothesised
to have drug-based vulnerabilities. The compounds
Title: The effect of HPV cancer proteins on produced were developed based on testing of over
host immunity 100,000 compounds, from which several were identified
to be possible candidates for treatment. Using data
(Hughes Family Trust Scholar) from different variations of one of these candidates, a
specific therapeutic target can potentially be produced.
Human papilloma virus (HPV) is the leading cause The variations of the compounds produced were based
of cervical cancer, causing the development of around replacing a nitrogen atom with an oxygen
premalignant lesions that can then progress to cervical atom, however due to time constraints, the compounds
cancer. The progression to invasive cancer is assisted produced are yet to be tested, and therefore the
by virus-mediated immune evasion, reducing the usefulness of this change is yet to be seen.
ability of immune cells to detect the virus. This study
explores the regulatory effects of HPV proteins on the
incorporation of a fluorescent protein into host cells
and the particles these cells shed. This study further
determined the efficacy of the drug Y-27632 and its

22 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

MANISH KUMAR Results suggest SNX17 is not the key bridge as SNX17- SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE REPORT
knockdown did not reduce the Na+-current. However,
(Dr Erwin Lamping, Dr Hee Ji Lee & Professor Richard the results provided insights into the relationship
Cannon, Sir John Walsh Research Institute, Faculty of between molecular- transport systems – particularly
Dentistry, University of Otago) between the retriever and the retromer.

Title: Studying the extracellular domains of CONOR
the Candida albicans multidrug efflux pump MCGUINNESS
Cdr1
(Dr Anita Dunbier,
(Werribee Trust Scholar) Department of Biochemistry,
School of Biomedical Sciences,
The human commensal yeast Candida albicans can University of Otago)
cause superficial skin infections that can become
life-threatening invasive fungal infections in the Title: ‘Friend, not foe’
immunocompromised. Azole antifungals are widely proteins: a new target for combination
used to treat invasive Candida infections, but treatment breast cancer therapy?
can become difficult for azole resistant isolates
overexpressing the multidrug efflux pump, Cdr1. Cdr1 (RG and B Calvert Family Trust Scholar)
is an integral membrane protein with six extracellular
cysteines that are conserved among all plant and fungal Commendation for an excellent summer scholarship report
efflux pump homologs. We investigated whether these
six cysteines form disulphide bonds and whether they Breast cancer remains the third largest cancer killer
stabilize the three dimensional structure of Cdr1. We in New Zealand. Recurrence rates for breast cancer
took a previously created, fully functional, Cdr1 protein are high; even with the best available treatment, only
that had all six cysteines mutated to serines and created 50% of patients show a response to therapy. One way
five additional Cdr1 mutants with predicted disulphide in which cancer cells are able to grow uncontrollably is
bonds re-introduced either individually or in various by evading the patient’s cancer killing immune system.
combinations. The five newly created Cdr1 mutants ‘Friend, not foe’, or immune checkpoint proteins are
were fully functional, which means that we are now in a expressed by cancer cells and suppress the immune
position to confirm the three predicted disulphide bonds response. Targeting these proteins in breast cancer
by mass spectrometry. could thus lead to improved treatments for patients.
Of note, I found that one of these proteins, called
VALERY LIU PD-L1, is expressed in tumour cells in response to
hormone therapy, a treatment widely used for the
(Associate Professor Fiona most common form of breast cancer. This could be one
McDonald, Department mechanism by which cancer cells escape cancer-killing
of Physiology, School immune cells. Targeting this protein in combination with
of Biomedical Sciences, existing therapies could help improve treatments for
University of Otago) breast cancer patients.

Title: Targeting sodium JOSHUA PRESTON
(Na+) transport to control high blood pressure
(Professor Dave Grattan
(Allan Wilkinson Scholar) & Dr Mohammed Rizwan,
Department of Anatomy,
Epithelial Na+ channels (ENaC) maintain fluid and School of Biomedical
electrolyte balance by regulating Na+ transport. Sciences, University of Otago)
Controlling ENaC density on cellular surfaces is
an effective method of controlling Na+ transport. Title: Metabolic
This study aimed to determine whether the protein sensing in the hypothalamus
subunit, sorting nexin 17 (SNX17), was the key bridge
between ENaC and the retromer – a protein complex (Nadia Lim/Paper Plus Scholar)
responsible for ENaC recycling and thus determines
cell-surface ENaC density. SNX-17 presence in Obesity and Type II Diabetes are increasingly growing
ENaC expressing Fischer rat thyroid epithelia was problems in New Zealand. This means that a lot of
reduced using SNX17-specific short-interfering research is needed to be done in these areas to
siRNA (siSNX17). Protein- detection experiments determine the biological causes. A hormonal pathway
were employed to visualise effectiveness of protein called the Wnt/ß-catenin pathway is a pathway
knockdown while electrophysiological techniques that appears to have a big role in the signalling
allowed the indirect quantification and comparison of of hormones in the brain that change after a meal.
ENaC density on siSNX-17 epithelia in comparison Specific statistical techniques were used to measure
to the control by measuring Na+ transport. the change of hormone action in this pathway in rats
Surprisingly, a greater ENaC Na+ transport in siSNX17 that had eaten a meal in comparison to those that were
epithelia was observed in comparison to the control. fasted. In female rat brains, in one specific region, there

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 23

SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE REPORT was a huge decrease in the levels of hormone action in expression constructs were made up, for two different
rats that had eaten a meal compared to rats that were isoforms of CDC25, used in both GST-pulldowns and
fasted. This data may enhance our understanding of Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC) to probe for an
the normal events that occur in the brain in response interaction. GST (Glutathione S-transferase) pulldowns
to a meal. proved inconclusive, due to non-specific interaction
between CDC25 and GST, while no strong interaction
JOSHUA QUON was detected using SEC. A more sensitive technique,
such as Hydrogen Deuterium Exchange, or X-Ray
(Dr Lianne Parkin, Crystallography, may help to characterise this interaction
Department of Preventive in the future.
and Social Medicine, Dr
Jack Drummer & Associate MATTHEW REILY-BELL
Professor Katrina Sharples,
Department of Medicine, (Associate Professor Caroline Beck, Department of
Dunedin School of Medicine, Zoology, Division of Sciences, & Dr Louise Bicknell,
University of Otago) Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine,
University of Otago)
Title: Are clinicians prescribing beta-
blockers to New Zealanders with lung Title: Making a model of seizures to test if a
disease and co-morbid heart disease? herb known as gotu kola has positive effects
on intractable epilepsy
(Southern Victorian Charitable Trust Scholar)
(Jan Warburton Scholar)
Clinical guidelines in New Zealand recommend the use
of beta-blocker drugs following acute coronary events Almost 30% of epilepsy suffers have intractable epilepsy
(heart attack and severe chest pain), including in patients which currently cannot be cured. This research began
with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). to look at a herb from South America called gotu kola
Despite past concerns, there is increasing evidence that which may have properties that decrease the recovery
the use of beta- blockers in patients with COPD is safe time of intractable epilepsy suffers after they have
and increases patient survival. This study described the seizures allowing them to get back to life sooner. This
use of beta-blockers and other heart disease prevention study aimed to make a model to test gotu kola in South
drugs in New Zealand patients with COPD. The study African tadpoles. First, we established video recording
was based on anonymised health data and included about protocols, then we fed tadpoles various diets and induced
83,000 people who started taking long-acting inhalers seizures using valproic acid (VPA). Tadpole seizures were
for COPD between February 2006 and December analysed. Analysis results confirmed that our system
2013. Of the patients who had an acute coronary event could detect the effects of the known anti-epileptic
during follow-up, just over half were not given a beta- drug, valproic acid. Results suggest that tadpole size and
blocker in the 6 months after the event. Further efforts age affect how bad seizures caused by PTZ are. Finally,
are required to improve the use of beta-blockers in results did not show any benefit to tadpoles consuming
New Zealand patients with COPD and co-existing heart gotu kola.
disease.
FRANCESCA
CAMERON TEMPLER
REDDINGTON
(Professor Terry Doyle,
(Dr Peter Mace, Department Department of Medicine,
of Biochemistry, School Dunedin School of Medicine,
of Biomedical Sciences, & Associate Professor Niels
University of Otago) Hammer, Department
of Anatomy, School of
Title: An interaction Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago)
study: How do TRIB1 and CDC25 interact?
Title: Re-examining assumptions about the
(Southern Victorian Charitable Trust Scholar) human hind foot and heel pain

TRIB1 (Tribbles 1) is a psuedokinase with a unique (J. A. Iverach Scholar)
functional role; it degrades a plethora of proteins
involved in regulating the cell cycle, such as CDC25 Foot conditions such as tendinitis and heel spurs cause a
(Cell division cycle 25) and C/EBPα (CCAAT/Enhancer huge amount of pain, expense and disability worldwide,
Binding Protein alpha.) When overexpressed, TRIB1 yet surprisingly little is known about this part of our
acts as an oncogene, dysregulating the cell cycle through anatomy. In this clinical anatomy and radiology project,
the enhanced degradation of these regulatory proteins. we studied tendon attachments in the human heel
The interaction of TRIB1 and CDC25 was investigated in using a range of imaging and dissection techniques. A
this project, as this is protein-protein interaction that has greater understanding of the structure of this region will
not been extensively characterised before. A total of 10 help us determine how these problems arise and how

24 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

best to treat them. We are specifically looking at the (I) ANNUAL GRANTS SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE REPORT
dimensions and locations of heel spurs, as this will give
insights into their aetiology, and at the correlations Dr Erwin Lamping, Dr Nicholas Heng
between dimensions of anatomical structures such
as the Achilles tendon and the Plantar fascia, as this (Department of Oral Sciences, School of Dentistry) &
will tell us more about how these structures function
together. Professor Richard Cannon (Sir John Wash

WILLIAM WARREN Research Institute, School of Dentistry)

(Dr Michael Jack, Department Engineering yeast as an indeal expression
of Physics, Division of host for human P-glycoprotein (ABCB1) –
Sciences & Dr Sigurd AG 370
Wilbanks, Department
of Biochemistry, School Sponsored by Mike Bird and Friends of the Foundation
of Biomedical Sciences,
University of Otago) P-glycoprotein (P-gp) pumps toxic compounds out of
cells, but it also causes tumours to become resistant to
Title: Investigating the molecular behavior of anti-cancer drugs. Thus, we need to find inhibitors of
protein-folding chaperones P-gp in tumours without affecting its ability to protect
healthy cells from toxic compounds. We accelerated
(Deloitte Scholar) natural evolution in the laboratory and created a
‘humanised’ version of a patented baker’s yeast strain
A protein, very similar to one involved in cancer that produces high levels of functional P-gp in the
development and other diseases, was purified. Once absence of interfering endogenous efflux pumps. The
purified, it was altered in a way that allows study of genomes of the original strain and its ‘humanised’
the protein at a molecular level as it moves and acts offspring are currently being sequenced to discover the
on its normal substrate. To make data obtained this mutations that caused a 100-fold increased P-gp efflux
way better and reduce noise, an attempt was made pump function in our lab-evolved strain. In parallel, we
to purify the protein based on its alteration type. This are also studying P-gp efflux pump function in whole
failed, potentially because of the storage conditions of yeast cells and in isolated cell membranes. The ultimate
the protein causing it to clump together. However, the aim is to develop a yeast-based, whole cell, P-gp efflux
method showed enough promise to potentially be useful pump assay that allows simple, and cost-effective,
to future researchers. This project also looked at turning screening for P-gp efflux pump substrates and/or
this data into a real-world understanding of the protein. inhibitors.
This involved computational modelling, and comparing
ways of looking at the data. This was made easier to Dr Xinhuai Liu & Professor Allan Herbison
use, and fast enough to use, that reliable data could be
generated within reasonable timeframes. (Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical
Sciences)
3. RESEARCH GRANTS
AWARDED Understanding the role of the brain in the
onset of menopause – AG 371
(A) Annual Grants and Otago
Community Trust Grants Sponsored by OceanaGold

These one-year grants are for research concerned with The project was designed to elucidate mechanisms
human health and the scientific basis of medicine. In June underlying the onset of menopause in women by
2017 there were 25 applications from the University investigating how changes in the brain relate to the
of Otago (cf 24 the previous year) totalling $635,280 endocrine alterations in a mouse model of menopause.
and eight of these were funded at a total expenditure of Firstly, the mouse model was established successfully
around $171,567 of which $70,000 was provided most and the characteristics of this mouse model have been
generously by the Otago Community Trust. These grants recorded and compared with reports in the literature.
commenced between August and October 2017 and are Secondly, an initial set of data showed changes in the
nearing completion with full reports due 3 months after brain that correlated with endocrine alterations. This
the one-year grant ends. Abstracts from the final report requires further study to confirm the significance of
will be available on the OMRF website http://www.omrf. these findings. Finally, a third group of mice is planned
org.nz at the end of 2018. Progress as at the end of May to investigate brain cell activity related to changes
2018 is summarised below: in the brain occurring prior to the appearance of
menopause.

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 25

SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE REPORT Dr Wayne Patrick (Department of Biochemistry, (II) OTAGO COMMUNITY TRUST GRANTS

School of Biomedical Sciences) The Otago Community Trust supports biomedical
research in the Otago area with the proviso that the
Resistence is futile: Investigating collateral research is selected on topics that can relate well to
hypersensitivity to combat antibiotic issues understandable by the layperson. The four
resistance – AG 372 projects selected were:

Sponsored by the JN Lemon Charitable Trust Dr Louise Bicknell & Dr Karen Knapp

By 2050, more people will be dying from antibiotic (Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine)
resistant infections than from cancer. Microbes
have now evolved resistance to every available Novel insights into the genetics of
class of antibiotic. Rather than focussing on the osteoporosis through studying the genome
costly development of new antibiotics, our team is of a NZ family – CT 374
investigating an alternative strategy that manipulates
an aspect of evolution known as collateral sensitivity. Osteoporosis is a chronic skeletal disease associated
Evolving resistance to one antibiotic sometimes with decreased bone mineral density and structural
results in a microbe becoming more sensitive to deterioration of bone architecture, affecting more than
others. Currently, a detailed understanding of this 80,000 people in New Zealand and over 200 million
phenomenon does not exist. To address this gap people worldwide. Our current understanding of the
in knowledge, we have taken harmless laboratory genetic causes of osteoporosis is incomplete and a
strains of bacteria and forced each of them to become better understanding of bone physiology is essential to
resistant to a single antibiotic. Then we have tested facilitate the ongoing search for improved therapeutics
these evolved strains against 72 other antibiotics, to for osteoporosis. We have a unique opportunity for
systematically map the patterns of resistance and the discovery of both novel candidate genes and
sensitivity. In general, the evolution of resistance to one new mechanisms regulating bone remodelling in
antibiotic makes the bacteria resistant to many more, osteoporosis, through studying a New Zealand family
too. More promisingly, however, our high-throughput in which a boy is severely affected by syndromic
approach is identifying examples in which resistance juvenile osteoporosis. We hypothesise that the striking
to one drug makes the bacterium more sensitive to severity of reduced bone mineral density in this child
another. Ultimately, we hope this laboratory-based has an underlying genetic cause. We have undertaken
research will translate into new guidance for clinicians, whole-genome sequencing on the parents and child,
on the most effective antibiotic combinations that and bioinformatic analysis is currently underway to
eliminate superbugs. prioritise candidate disease-causing mutations.

Associate Professor Bruce Russell (School of Professor Dirk de Ridder, Dr Sook Ling Leong
Pharmacy), Dr Margaret Ryan (Department of
Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences) & Professor (Department of Surgical Sciences, Dunedin School
Paul Glue (Department of Psychological Medicine,
of Medicine) & Associate Professor Patrick
Dunedin School of Medicine) Manning (Department of Medicine, Dunedin School of

Can microRNA be used as a biomarker to Medicine)
predict treatment response in anxiety? – AG
373 Infraslow neurofeedback for food craving in
overweight and obese women, a pilot study
Sponsored by Southern Victorian Charitable Trust – CT 375

Low doses of the drug ketamine can relieve the There are several areas in the brain related to
symptoms of patients with treatment-resistant reward processing that encourage overeating. One
anxiety in less than 2 hours; this effect lasts for several implicated area is called the posterior cingulate
days. This research aims to undertake a pilot study cortex (PCC), which appears to function abnormally
that combines MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of in overweight or obese individuals who show signs
the brain with measuring small amounts of specific of food addiction. This study investigated whether
compounds in the blood to determine whether the infraslow neurofeedback, which utilises real time
ketamine-induced changes can be predicted. Ethics display of brain activity to allow self-regulation of brain
committee approval for this research has been granted function, may help reduce food craving in overweight
and patient recruitment and research is underway - we or obese women with signs of food addiction who have
are imaging patients and storing their blood samples abnormalities in the PCC. Participants received six
for analysis. sessions of neurofeedback (11 women) or placebo (10
women) over a three-week period. Findings suggest
that infraslow neurofeedback targeting the PCC can
alter brain activity and suppress food craving in these
individuals. If proven to be therapeutic in a larger trial,
infraslow neurofeedback may be a complement to
current strategies for weight management.

26 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

Professor Warren Tate, Dr Eiren Sweetman, (III) RECENT ANNUAL GRANT ROUND SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE REPORT
Mrs Tina Edgar (Department of Biochemistry, School
of Biomedical Sciences) & Dr Lynette Hodges (School In June 2018 there were 20 applications from the
University of Otago and one from a research laboratory
of Sport & Exercise – Massey University) external to the Unversity totalling $582,657. Four of
these applications were funded by the Foundation
Bioenergetics of mayalgic and their sub-sponsors: Mike Bird’s Friends of the
encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome Foundation, JN Lemon Charitable Trust, OceanaGold,
– CT 376 Southern Victorian Charitable Trust ($108,000), and two
by the Otago Community Trust ($70,000). Abstracts of
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome the proposed work can be found on the following web
(ME/CFS) is a severe fatigue illness that is life-long site http://www.omrf.org.nz
and debilitating, affecting ~ 20,000 people in New
Zealand. Our previous studies on a patient cohort (B) Laurenson Awards
suggested that both the energy powerhouse of the cell
and energy producing pathways are not functioning Laurenson Awards are one-year grants for research
normally. We are now using a newly acquired Seahorse concerned with the effects of diet and/or drugs on human
analyser to measure oxygen consumption, energy health. In December 2017 there were 17 applications
production and capacity in live cells isolated from blood (compared with 16 the previous year) from the University
of these patients. This enables the derivation of an of Otago totalling $465,109 and three of these were
energy status indicator called the Bioenergetic Index. funded at a total expenditure of $80,000. One grant
We have completed the establishment/optimisation ($25,000) was surrendered before commencing due to
studies and are now assessing patient/control pairs unexpected issues gaining a permit for a therapeutic trial.
for their energy status. Eventually we want to test The two remaining grants commenced 1 February and 1
whether supplementation of the essential antioxidant March 2018 and final reports are due at the end of April
(reduced CoQ10), whentargeted to the cell’s energy and May 2019. Abstracts from the final report will be
powerhouse (as nutraceutical MitoQ), can restore available on the OMRF website http://www.omrf.org.nz
energy function to the cells of these patients. It will test mid 2019. Work in progress, as at the end of May 2018, is
whether this is a helpful supplement for patients with summarised below:
this severe fatigue.
Associate Professor Mark Thompson-Fawcett
Professor Sarah Young, Dr Silke Neumann
(Department of Surgical Sciences, Dunedin School of
(Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine)
Medicine), Professor Gerald Tannock & Mr Blair
& Dr Andrew Clarkson (Department of Anatomy, Lawley (Department of Microbiology & Immunology,

School of Biomedical Sciences) School of Biomedical Sciences)

Immune cells in the stroke environment – A probiotic to improve ileal pouch health –
Drivers of differential outcomes in obesity? LA 382
– CT 377
Probiotics, or good bacteria, can improve health. Some
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and patients with inflammatory bowel disease have their
long-term disability in New Zealand, with limited entire large bowel removed with surgery. To avoid a
treatment options available. Inflammation of affected stoma bag, a pouch (new rectum) is made out of the
brain regions is a major complication of stroke and end of the small bowel and joined to the anus. Half of
strongly impairs nerve cell repair and rehabilitation. these patients develop an inflammatory condition in
Underlying medical conditions, such as obesity and their pouch called pouchitis. A small pilot study has
diabetes dramatically increase the likelihood of been successful using a specifically developed probiotic
experiencing a stroke and further impede healing. In for pouchitis. We now aim to conduct a larger study to
this project, we aim to understand the role of immune prove effectiveness. Ethical approval is in progress. We
cells that drive inflammation post-stroke and how needed to find a new probiotic supplier. Recently we
these contribute to worse outcomes in obese patients. have had very positive developments with a potential
Analysis of peripheral immune cells infiltrating the new supplier in China. We aim to be in a position to
brain post-stroke has shown that obese mice have start the study toward the end of the year, which will
a higher proportion of inflammatory monocytes. run over 4 months.
These cells are quick responders to injury and cell
death and important for preparing the damaged
tissue for regeneration. However, these cells can also
cause further tissue damage through the secretion
of inflammatory molecules. We are currently
investigating the role of these cells.

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 27

SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE REPORT Dr Ben Wheeler (Department of Women’s & Hip joint osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating disease
Children’s Health, Dunedin School of Medicine), Ms that impacts quality of life, resulting in around 8000
Deanna Beckett, Dr Carolina Loch (Department joint replacements in New Zealand per annum.
of Oral Sciences, School of Dentistry) Dr Erin Nerve receptors in the hip capsule may be involved
Mahoney (Paediatrics section of Department of in fine-tuning the muscles surrounding the joint, and
Women’s & Children’s Health) & Mr Andrew Gray failure of this mechanism might be related to hip OA,
but its role is unclear. This study has established a
(Department of Preventive & Social Medicine, Dunedin novel experimental protocol to investigate the effects
School of Medicine) of nerve receptor stimulation in the hip capsule on
the muscles surrounding the hip joint in healthy
What are the dental consequences of participants, as well as in patients with OA in the
vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy and context of total hip replacement. This research gives
infancy? – LA 383 the unique opportunity to revisit the hip capsule – a
largely neglected part of the hip joint that potentially
New Zealand children, particularly those living in the has functions ranging far beyond its well described role
South Island, are at high risk of vitamin D deficiency. as a mechanical stabiliser.
Deficiency during tooth development may result in
developmental defects and dental decay. Data from Dr Paul Hessian & Ms Melanie Millier
a 2012 randomised controlled trial (RCT) is available
for 126 women and their infants, including vitamin (Department of Medicine, Dunedin School of Medicine)
D status at multiple time points during pregnancy
and after delivery. The children from this study, now Insight into pathogeneic mechanism causing
between five and seven years of age, will be losing extra-articular complications in rheumatoid
their first baby tooth, and gaining their first permanent arthritis – JT 379
molars. We aim to study potential childhood dental
consequences of vitamin D deficiency during Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease
pregnancy and early life. associated with painful and swollen joints, often
causing joint deformity. Rheumatoid inflammation
To date, the study is progressing well, with both also involves sites away from joint tissues, including
participants and the research team finding the study development of rheumatoid nodule lesions in skin.
valuable. As of mid-May 2018, 36 children have been Methotrexate is recommended as part of treatment
recruited for the study (aiming for 80 in total) and for reducing rheumatoid disease activity. Ironically,
19 have undergone their dental assessments and nodules can develop with methotrexate therapy, even
completed the study. Recruitment continues, and though joint inflammation improves. This proposal
overall we are well on track for study completion in investigates this phenomenon, focusing on genes
early 2019. within nodules, apparently affected by methotrexate
therapy.
(C) Jack Thomson Arthritis Fund
Comparing nodules obtained from rheumatoid
This OMRF fund was established in 2011 and was made arthritis patients receiving methotrexate therapy
possible by a bequest from the late Jack Thomson. In with nodules from patients with no exposure to
December 2017 there were four applications (compared methotrexate, we have identified 12 genes that
with eight in the previous year) from the University of appear influenced by methotrexate therapy. We
Otago totalling $108,898 and three of these were funded continue systematically working through each of
at a total expenditure of ~$78,850. All grants commenced these genes identifying the cells contributing to each
on 1 February or 1 March 2018 and final reports are due gene’s expression. Inflammatory macrophages and
at the end of April or May 2019. Abstracts from the final blood vessels are involved. We anticipate that once
report will be available on the OMRF website http:// completed, our work will explain how methotrexate
www.omrf.org.nz mid 2019. Work in progress, as at the promotes rheumatoid inflammation at one site while
end of May 2018, is summarised below: having anti-inflammatory effect at others.

Associate Professor Niels Hammer, Dr Dr Gisela Sole, Dr Daniel Cury Ribeiro, Dr
Stephanie Woodley, Dr Daniela Aldabe Meredith Perry, Dr Craig Wassinger (School of
Physiotherapy) & Dr Nicola Swan (Department of
(Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences),
Psychological Medicine, Dunedin School of Medicine)
Dr Daniel Cury Ribeiro (School of Physiotherapy)
& Dr Melanie Bussey (School of Physical Education, Feasibility of neuroscience-informed
physiotherapy for persistent shoulder pain
Sport & Exercise Sciences) – JT 380

The functional link between hip joint Shoulder pain is common in middle-aged and older
mechanorecptors and neuromuscular people, often interfering in sleep, daily life, work and
control of hip muscles – JT 378 sport. Current treatment typically includes manual

28 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

therapy and exercises prescribed by physiotherapists, prize ($250) funded by the OMRF was awarded to SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE REPORT
medication and, if not resolving, surgery. Besides Ashton Blake-Barlow (supervised by Dr Sean Coffey,
considering patho-anatomical disorders, increased Department of Medicine, & Professor Greg Jones,
sensitivity of the nervous system and emotions, Department of Surgical Sciences) on the topic of
such as fear of movement, worry and stress, are also “Aortic size index to predict risk in coronary artery
contributors for the pain. To address those factors, disease patients”.
a ‘neuroscience-informed’ rehabilitation approach
includes improving patients’ understanding of the The OMRF summer research prizes since 2015 have
neurophysiology of pain and psychosocial aspects to been called “The Pat Cragg Summer Scholar Speaker Prizes”
enhance self-management and self-efficacy, in addition in recognition of the long-standing involvement by
to manual therapy and exercises. Such an approach Associate Professor Pat Cragg in the summer research
may keep persons participating in activities they value, scholarship assessing committee.
and delay/prevent surgery. Thirty participants will
be recruited from the communities and offered the OMRF-sponsored Invited Speaker for the
programme in the Dunedin and Christchurch School Otago Medical School Research Society:
of Physiotherapy Clinics. The study will determine
whether this intervention is feasible within the For the annual invited speaker meeting of the OMSRS
NZ primary health care system, based in the two (19 September 2017) there were two invited local
physiotherapy clinics. speakers: Professor Parry Guildford (Department of
Biochemistry and Director, Cancer Genetics Laboratory)
4. OTHER ACTIVITIES OF THE on the topic of “The cause of cancer” and Dr Chris
SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE Jackson (Department of Medicine and Medical Director
of the Cancer Society of New Zealand) on the topic of
OMRF Student Speaker Awards at the Otago “Keytruda in melanoma: from bench to bedside, via the
Medical School Research Society: steps of parliament”.

The Student Speaker awards are given to the student OMRF-sponsored prizes at the Otago School’s
speakers who, in the opinion of a panel of three to four Science Fair:
judges, gives the best and second best oral presentation
– based on both the components of the presentation The Foundation sponsors four prizes ($50 each) each
and its scientific merit. To be eligible the candidates must year in the Special Prize category at the Otago Aurora
report work that has been performed under the auspices Science & Technology Fair for secondary schools for
of the University of Otago. projects involving medically orientated topics. The
August 2017 recipients were “Gluten or Gluten-free, that
(1) At the August 2017 scientific meeting of the Otago is the question” by Belle King-Begg, St Hilda’s Collegiate
Medical School Research Society (OMSRS) there School (Year 8), “Arrrghhh that hurts” by Harvey Mullins,
were 10 doctoral candidates (selected from 35 Dunedin North Intermediate (Year 8), “We got the beat”
applicants based on their submitted abstracts). The by Quilla Cashell-Smith, Fairfield Intermediate (Year
first Prize ($1,000) funded by Otago Postgraduate 8) and “Putting your heart to the test” by Rosa Lines &
Medical Society was awarded to Stella Cameron Lucy Cowie, Columba College (Year 8). The Foundation’s
(supervised by Dr Louise Parr-Brownlie, Department judges were Assoc Prof Greg Jones, Dr Andrew Bahn and
of Anatomy, and Professor Brian Hyland, Department Dr Lyn Wise.
of Physiology) on the topic of “Pathophysiological
and anatomical changes of the deep cerebellar ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
nuclei in a chronic rat model of Parkinson’s disease”.
The second prize ($500), which was funded by the The Foundation continues to play an ever increasing
OMRF, was awarded to Matthew Sykes (supervised role in funding Medical Research in Otago – may
by Professor John Reynolds, Department of we thank the Scientific Committee for its dedicated
Anatomy) on the topic of “Low-intensity magnetic efforts in the arduous, though satisfying, work of
stimulation and excitability in the rodent neocortex assessing the scholarship and merit of the many
as measured by local field potentials”. summer research projects and grant applications that
it receives. We thank the Council of the Foundation
(2) At the May 2018 scientific meeting of the OMSRS for the support, advice and enthusiasm with which our
there were 10 candidates (selected from 27 funding recommendations are endorsed and the many
applicants based on their submitted abstracts). All Benefactors and Sponsors of the Foundation whose
were summer research scholars and 2 of the 10 (and financial support has made all this possible.
6 of the 27) had been sponsored by the OMRF. The
first prize ($500) funded by the OMRF was awarded Associate Professor Patricia A. Cragg &
to Sophie Mathiesen (supervised by Professor Cliff Professor Gregory T. Jones
Abraham, Department of Psychology, & Dr Stephaine
Hughes, Department of Biochemistry) on the topic of Outgoing & Incoming Chairs, OMRF Scientific Committee
“Assessing the efficacy of a novel adeno-associated
viral capsid in targeting the brain”. The second 30 June 2018

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 29

FINANCIAL
HIGHLIGHTS

Otago Medical Research Foundation Inc.

30 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 31

AUDITOR’S REPORT

32 OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018

OTAGO MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2018 33

Annual Report to 31st March 2018 &
Notice of Annual General Meeting
Charities Number: CC33444

OMRF.ORG.NZ


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