Lung infections are the most frequent triggers of asthma exacerbations. While different infections cause exacerbations by they all result in the same type of lung inflammation. Using novel disease models, we have identified key molecules involved in a range of viral and bacterial induced asthma exacerbations. We will define these shared pathways that link viral and bacterial-mediated asthma exacerbations, thus these studies will pave the way for the development of unified treatments.
Prof Mackay, through this Australia Fellowship, proposes to gain new knowledge on immune responses, by exploring these radical new ideas on inflammation and the role of diet and gastro-intestinal microflora. In addition, he hopes to develop new treatments for human diseases, by integrating new and powerful technologies and approaches for the generation of bio-therapeutics. Finally, genetically engineered mice will be pivotal in this process, and will enable the discovery of a new generation of m ....Prof Mackay, through this Australia Fellowship, proposes to gain new knowledge on immune responses, by exploring these radical new ideas on inflammation and the role of diet and gastro-intestinal microflora. In addition, he hopes to develop new treatments for human diseases, by integrating new and powerful technologies and approaches for the generation of bio-therapeutics. Finally, genetically engineered mice will be pivotal in this process, and will enable the discovery of a new generation of medicines not possible a couple of years ago. The Australia Fellowship will draw on considerable cross-discipline interactions, to produce powerful new directions in medical research. For instance, there is considerable evidence, but poor understanding, of how the immune system is regulated by metabolism or the role of stem cells in tissue remodelling associated with inflammation, or the delicate interplay between the immune system and cancers.Read moreRead less
I am an immunologist working on the molecular basis of immune responses, particularly inflammatory responses. My research also focuses on mechanisms of cell migration, and cytokines and chemokines for immune responses. My research also has considerable re
Abnormal growth of blood vessels is a central feature of number of blinding conditions of the eye. Although there are treatments available that reduce the sudden loos of vision in a majority of people with advanced age related macular degeneration, about 20% fail to respond and half gradually loose vision. This project will determine the effectiveness of treating vascular diseases of the retina with a novel therapy that is quite different to that currently available.
The Role Of Meninges In Midbrain Dopamine Development
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$378,311.00
Summary
Dopamine neurons are important for the control of movement, emotion and cognitive function, and are affected in a number of disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. Instrumental in improving our knowledge of disease etiology and the development of new therapies will be a greater understanding of how these cells are initially born during development. This project examines the role of the brain’s meninges in dopamine development and repair and will identify proteins and signaling pathways involved.