Dr Tayla Penny’s perinatal brain injury research has been awarded a significant early career research grant.
Dr Penny’s investigation of umbilical cord blood (UCB) cell therapy for perinatal brain injury was recognised by the Jack Brockhoff Foundation as a worthy recipient of a $75,000 grant.
The Foundation exists to support the health and wellbeing of all Victorians and among its philanthropic efforts, it funds talented early-career researchers, who are supported by host institutions.
Protecting newborns from perinatal brain injury
This research project, under the supervision of Professor Suzanne Miller and Dr Courtney McDonald, is dedicated to protecting vulnerable newborns against injuries that can have life-changing effects, such as cerebral palsy, and developing more effective treatments.
The project, titled ‘Expanded umbilical cord blood cell therapy for perinatal brain injury’, is one of several research efforts currently underway at Hudson Institute.
It builds on Dr Penny’s earlier work with Dr Courtney McDonald, published in Brain Research, showing that umbilical cord blood cells improve long-term brain injury.
Dr Penny welcomed the funding and the support of the Foundation.
I feel honoured to receive this prestigious grant and am very thankful to the Jack Brockhoff Foundation,” she said. “This grant will allow me to undertake preclinical research that will inform future clinical trials and assist in the translation of this novel therapy into clinical practice.”
The Jack Brockhoff Foundation was established in 1979 by the late Sir Jack Brockhoff, the Chairman and Managing Director of Brockhoff Biscuits Pty Ltd, a business established by his grandfather in 1880.
Throughout his life, Sir Jack was keen to assist others in the community less fortunate than himself.
Hudson Institute is proud to be part of the Foundation’s efforts to bring much-needed medical breakthroughs to the people of Victoria and beyond.
READ MORE | Preventing brain injury in babies
Funder | Jack Brockhoff Foundation
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