Chromera velia - a new organism for understanding malaria and related parasitic diseases. Malaria and related parasitic diseases cause millions of deaths annually. Chromera velia is a recently discovered organism that was isolated from Australian corals and is the closest known relative to these parasites. Chromera is able to photosynthesis and live in the absence of a host, making it an excellent organism for developing antimalarial drugs. In this project we will determine key features of Chro ....Chromera velia - a new organism for understanding malaria and related parasitic diseases. Malaria and related parasitic diseases cause millions of deaths annually. Chromera velia is a recently discovered organism that was isolated from Australian corals and is the closest known relative to these parasites. Chromera is able to photosynthesis and live in the absence of a host, making it an excellent organism for developing antimalarial drugs. In this project we will determine key features of Chromera ecology, morphology, genetics and biochemistry. The resulting data will allow us to exploit Chromera as a model for developing anti-parasitic drugs and for understanding parasite evolution. Read moreRead less
Prevention and treatment of chlamydiosis and cryptococcosis in koalas. This project aims to generate increased understanding of the aetiology and pathogenesis of the two most prevalent and debilitating infectious diseases of koalas to make improved decisions regarding therapeutic intervention, prevention and management. Chlamydiosis, caused by two chlamydial bacteria, affects koala fertility, urinary tract function and eyesight. Cryptococcosis, caused by the fungus Cryptococcus gattii, may resul ....Prevention and treatment of chlamydiosis and cryptococcosis in koalas. This project aims to generate increased understanding of the aetiology and pathogenesis of the two most prevalent and debilitating infectious diseases of koalas to make improved decisions regarding therapeutic intervention, prevention and management. Chlamydiosis, caused by two chlamydial bacteria, affects koala fertility, urinary tract function and eyesight. Cryptococcosis, caused by the fungus Cryptococcus gattii, may result in koala morbidity and death. Planned therapeutic trials, prevention strategies and the development of optimal husbandry strategies will provide knowledge that will lead to reduced koala morbidity through improved understanding of the interactions amongst infectious pathogens, the animal host and the environment.Read moreRead less