New regenerative medicine facility leads the way

From the Minister for Innovation
Wednesday, 08 April 2009
Sourced from: http://www.premier.vic.gov.au/component/content/article/6514.html

One of the world’s largest regenerative medicine research institutes was launched at Monash University’s Clayton campus today.

Cabinet Secretary Tony Lupton, representing Innovation Minister Gavin Jennings, said the Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI), which is a joint venture between Monash University and the Brumby Government, will establish the critical infrastructure required to deliver the next generation of research outcomes in regenerative medicine.

Based at Monash’s Clayton Campus, the Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI), will focus on helping physicians to prevent, halt and reverse damage to vital organs due to disease, injury or genetic conditions.

“The Brumby Government is taking action to support medical research because of its important role in improving the health, prosperity and safety of all Victorians,” Mr Lupton said.

“This state-of-the-art $153 million research facility will play a significant role in the search for treatments for conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, arthritis, musculo-skeletal and cardiovascular diseases.

“We are committed to promoting Victoria as a leader in regenerative medicine globally and Melbourne to become one of the five major biotechnology centres in the world.”

ARMI has already attracted high-calibre researchers including Director Professor Nadia Rosenthal who has an international reputation in the field of cardiovascular and muscle regeneration.

Dr Rosenthal was recently awarded a $4 million National Health and Medical Research Council Australia fellowship to investigate the heart’s regenerative capacity in ageing and disease.

“The recruitment of these top researchers to ARMI ensures Victoria continues to strengthen its international reputation for regenerative medical research,” Mr Lupton said.

Other ARMI initiatives supported by the Brumby Government include the $5.4 million Zebrafish Core Research Facility, which helps researchers find better treatments for diseases such as muscular dystrophy and heart disease and the Monash Micro Imaging (MMI) Advanced Optical Imaging Facility.

“These facilities show what can be achieved when you combine the right mix of government support, innovative people and a vision for excellence,” Mr Lupton said.

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