Functional Characterisation Of Novel Metabolites In Asthma And Identification Of New Biomarkers
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$829,922.00
Summary
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that represents a major health burden. Severe asthma represents 10% of those suffering the disease and poses an urgent problem due to exacerbations and resistance to current therapies. We have conducted the first study of the metabolites that are altered in the airways of patients with severe asthma and identified functional metabolites and disease biomarkers. We now aim to assess the function of these molecules in asthma disease models.
We will conduct a survey of respiratory symptoms, lung function, smoking status, occupational exposures, and other risk factors among 3200 people aged 40 years and over living in five Australian communities: Melbourne, Sydney, Tasmania, Busselton (WA), and the Kimberley region (WA). In the Kimberley we will survey 400 Aboriginal people and 400 non-Aboriginal people. We will use a survey methodology that has been developed by an international expert panel and has been implemented in many other co ....We will conduct a survey of respiratory symptoms, lung function, smoking status, occupational exposures, and other risk factors among 3200 people aged 40 years and over living in five Australian communities: Melbourne, Sydney, Tasmania, Busselton (WA), and the Kimberley region (WA). In the Kimberley we will survey 400 Aboriginal people and 400 non-Aboriginal people. We will use a survey methodology that has been developed by an international expert panel and has been implemented in many other countries (in North and South America, Asia, and Europe). This study will provide the first nationally-representative information on the burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and the opportunities for health gain by improving the management of this illness. In Australia, COPD is a relatively silent and under-recognised disease but nevertheless is the third most important contributor to the burden of disease and the third leading cause of hospital admission as well as being the underlying cause of 4.2% of all deaths. The information we will collect is needed to form a basis for prevention and disease management interventions to reduce the burden of COPD, particularly among population sub-groups who are disproportionately affected, either due to greater exposure to risk factors (mainly tobacco smoking and occupation), greater susceptibility, under-recognition and under-diagnosis, or inadequate disease management. Importantly, the study will serve to raise awareness about the hazards of smoking for all Australians. By identifying target groups, prevalent exposures and management deficiencies, it will lead the way towards policy-relevant randomised controlled trials testing community-based interventions to prevent COPD and-or manage it more effectively. The information collected will help advance knowledge of the prevalence, burden and treatment of COPD that will be relevant to communities throughout the world.Read moreRead less
The Emerging Problem Of Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria Infection: Understanding Aetiology, Geospatial Epidemiology And Developing Interventions
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$988,791.00
Summary
This project will be largest study of non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infection in cystic fibrosis. By combining growing the bacteria with detailed information from the CF patient data registry, geographical location and environmental conditions, this study will provide novel insights into factors associated with NTM. Gene sequencing and airway infection profiling will extend understanding and has the potential to identify novel risk factors and biomarkers for NTM-related airways disease.
The health effects of electronic cigarette use are virtually unknown. They have only recently been introduced into widespread use, and as such their effects on human health will not be known for many years. We will use our expertise in exposure models and health outcome measurement to provide timely hard-data on their potential to impact health – data that are urgently required to guide policy makers in this area.
Assessing a model of the physiological changes at arousal from sleep. Arousals from sleep are common in the elderly and have adverse consequences. This project will investigate a model of the changes in bodily processes (muscle, brain and cardiovascular activation) that occur when humans awaken from sleep.
Prof McEvoy a respiratory physician researching the causes and consequences of sleep breathing disorders. He has a particular research interest in the link between sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease and in increasing access to care for sleep apnea sufferers through the development of new, simplified methods of diagnosis and management.
The Link Between Vitamin D Deficiency And Chronic Lung Disease Is Due To Increased Airway Smooth Muscle
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$644,067.00
Summary
Vitamin D deficiency is a global public health problem. It is becoming increasingly evident that vitamin D deficiency increases the severity of chronic lung disease. In this study we propose to examine a mechanism that we think clearly explains this association. These studies are critical to understanding how deficiencies in key nutrients can impact on chronic lung disease and will provide the data necessary to guide public health policy to reduce the burden of disease in the community.
Examining The Early Origins Of Asthma And Chronic Respiratory Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$384,768.00
Summary
Asthma is the most common chronic lung disease of childhood. Birth cohort studies show that early life environmental stressors may increase asthma risk. This study will examine the impact of multiple early-life stressors using a novel ‘exposome’ model in international birth cohort studies, to identify the most significant factors. This will allow for interventions in a planned Australian birth cohort study, leading to improved health for Australians.