TWO Queensland research projects will receive a funding boost thanks to the record number of runners in this year’s Sunday Mail Suncorp Bridge to Brisbane fun run.

Diamantina Institute researcher Dr Louise Hutley and Professor Kerry Atkinson, of the Mater Medical Research Institute, will receive grants from the proceeds of the August 30 fun run which attracted a record 45,265 entrants.

More than $2.4 million has been raised for charities over the past 12 years.

The Heart Foundation was the major beneficiary of this year’s race, with the total amount raised to be announced within weeks.

Lauren Moran, of Coopers Plains in Brisbane’s south, completed the 10km leg, raising $5682 to make her the biggest single fundraiser. She was 21 when her father had a fatal heart attack just three days after his 46th birthday.

Two research projects have been chosen for funding grants from this year’s fun run.

Dr Hutley’s work could result in an anti-obesity drug being released within five years, potentially reducing the risk of heart attack, given the link between obesity and cardiovascular disease. It is hoped a drug that targets a particular fat tissue could be developed.

Prof Atkinson will receive a grant to further his research into helping heart attack victims recover.

Nominations for potential beneficiaries of next year’s Bridge to Brisbane close on November 11.