Genetics and evolution of Shigella O antigens. We use genome scale sequencing techniques to sequence 26 O-antigen gene clusters from Shigella. With the seven already known, this will give sequences for every O-antigen of Shigella. This will be the first time that such set is fully sequenced. Shigella are human specific pathogens, have emerged with the evolution of humans. O-antigens are important for their life and pathogenicity. This project will greatly extend our knowledge of the genetic basi ....Genetics and evolution of Shigella O antigens. We use genome scale sequencing techniques to sequence 26 O-antigen gene clusters from Shigella. With the seven already known, this will give sequences for every O-antigen of Shigella. This will be the first time that such set is fully sequenced. Shigella are human specific pathogens, have emerged with the evolution of humans. O-antigens are important for their life and pathogenicity. This project will greatly extend our knowledge of the genetic basis and evolution of this important polymorphism. O-antigens are used for typing Shigella and also elicit strong immunity. The molecular data will help establish DNA based typing and vaccine development.Read moreRead less
Antigenic analysis of the surface of Cyclospora cayetanensis oocysts. Infection with Cyclospora cayetanensis is an emerging disease that causes significant morbidity in human populations. Although prevalent in developing countries, recent outbreaks in the USA confirm it is now emerging into the developed world. The research described here will analyse and characterise the antigens on the surface of the oocyst of C. cayetanensis which will add significantly to our sparse knowledge on this impor ....Antigenic analysis of the surface of Cyclospora cayetanensis oocysts. Infection with Cyclospora cayetanensis is an emerging disease that causes significant morbidity in human populations. Although prevalent in developing countries, recent outbreaks in the USA confirm it is now emerging into the developed world. The research described here will analyse and characterise the antigens on the surface of the oocyst of C. cayetanensis which will add significantly to our sparse knowledge on this important human parasite. We will also develop the first commercial antibodies and technologies which will rapidly and accurately detect the parasite in human patients and our drinking water supplies, thus securing a global market for Australian technology.Read moreRead less