Deciphering the molecular mechanisms of parasite-host interactions. The completion of genome projects for several helminths of veterinary significance has provided novel insights into the fundamentals of helminth biology. One outcome is the identification of microRNAs, a subclass of small regulatory RNAs which in plants and mammalian cells control diverse biological processes at the posttranscriptional level. We have discovered the presence of helminth miRNAs within host cells with the ability t ....Deciphering the molecular mechanisms of parasite-host interactions. The completion of genome projects for several helminths of veterinary significance has provided novel insights into the fundamentals of helminth biology. One outcome is the identification of microRNAs, a subclass of small regulatory RNAs which in plants and mammalian cells control diverse biological processes at the posttranscriptional level. We have discovered the presence of helminth miRNAs within host cells with the ability to mimic mammalian miRNAs to modulate innate immune responses. This project will discover how helminths hijack the mammalian miRNA machinery to regulate host gene expression and thus support long-term infection. The outcomes will highlight new avenues for the control of these persistent worm infections.Read moreRead less
Next-generation genomic resources to tackle parasitic diseases of animals. The revolution in genomics provides unprecedented opportunities to tackle destructive parasitic diseases affecting billions of animals worldwide. Through a synergy of leading-edge technologies and a strong partnership with BGI International, this project aims to deliver major conceptual advances in the understanding of parasitism; an unparalleled skills-base in genomics and bioinformatics; innovative new molecular technol ....Next-generation genomic resources to tackle parasitic diseases of animals. The revolution in genomics provides unprecedented opportunities to tackle destructive parasitic diseases affecting billions of animals worldwide. Through a synergy of leading-edge technologies and a strong partnership with BGI International, this project aims to deliver major conceptual advances in the understanding of parasitism; an unparalleled skills-base in genomics and bioinformatics; innovative new molecular technologies; and new treatments and diagnostic tests as biotechnological outcomes. This leap forward in Australia will substantially enhance the global profile of parasitology research, training and employment opportunities for early career scientists, and improve access to international research funding and networks. Read moreRead less