A breakthrough decades in the making has put Australian science on the global stage—delivering a game-changing, needle-free treatment for millions living with psoriasis.
Developed through a powerful collaboration between Johnson & Johnson and UQ spin-out Protagonist Therapeutics, the newly FDA-approved oral drug ICOTYDE (icotrokinra) offers patients a simpler, once-daily alternative to injections. Born out of research at Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the innovation highlights Australia’s growing influence in next-generation therapeutics.
For the 60–125 million people worldwide affected by psoriasis, this isn’t just a scientific milestone—it’s a life-changing shift toward more accessible, patient-friendly care, with the potential to unlock new treatments for a range of immune-related diseases.

Can a brain scan reveal whether someone has depression?

As Australia becomes one of only three countries to approve cultivated meat for sale, researchers at The University of Queensland’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) have made a discovery that could help the emerging industry scale sustainably and overcome one of its biggest hurdles: cost.

Strep A bacteria, common in children, can lead to serious complications like rheumatic heart disease (RHD) when infections are untreated, especially in communities with limited healthcare access. Professor Mark Walker’s team has made major strides to develop a vaccine.

Nearly 20 years ago, a family established an endowed fellowship to fund research on brain cancer and pain, inspired by their son and brother’s experience. Their support has enabled impactful work at IMB, into preventing cancer therapy side effects.

In 2024, the Critical Care Research Group celebrated 20 years of improving outcomes through patient-centric research.

While significant strides have been made for women in research and leadership, ongoing conversations, inclusive practices, and targeted support are key to accelerating progress toward true gender equity in science and beyond. Article written by IMB PhD student Samara Ranie.

IMB spin-out Protagonist Therapeutics recently announced exciting news: positive topline results from Phase 3 studies of their psoriasis drug, icotrokinra.

IMB researchers have discovered a link between the genetic risk of depression and heart disease in women