Identifying The Correlates Of Protective Immunity Against Invasive Staphylococcus Aureus Infection
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$954,131.00
Summary
The bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) remains a major cause of human infections, and the rise of highly pathogenic, antibiotic-resistant strains is making treatment increasingly difficult. In this project we will examine the immune response to S.aureus to determine which parts of the immune system are involved in responding to the bacteria. This knowledge will lay the foundation for which new innovative S. aureus vaccines will ultimately emerge.
Evaluation Of Haemophilus Haemolyticus As A Preventative Therapy For NTHi Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$445,659.00
Summary
Middle ear infections are the most common reason for a child to be given antibiotics and undergo surgery. This project will investigate whether a harmless bacterium found in the respiratory tract of children can be used as a probiotic to prevent bacterial ear infections. Benefits from reducing ear infections include fewer children undergoing surgery, fewer GP visits and antibiotic prescriptions, less time off work for parents, reduced hearing loss in children, and improved educational outcomes.
Does Dietary Modulation Of The Colonic Microflora Attenuate The Effects Of Advanced Glycation Endproducts?
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$125,913.00
Summary
This research aims to determine whether the daily consumption of a prebiotic (fibre) supplement can encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria living in the human colon. Substances produced by these friendly bacteria may help to reduce inflammation, insulin resistance and harmful levels of Advanced Glycation Endproducts (AGEs), which can increase the risk of diabetets in susceptible individuals.
Genetic Dissection Of The Biogenesis And Function Of Type IV Fimbriae Of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$407,545.00
Summary
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common bacterium which causes serious life-threatening infections of individuals with cystic fibrosis, AIDS or who have suffered severe burns or are undergoing cancer chemotherapy. This pathogen, and a number of other important infectious bacteria use surface filaments, called fimbriae, like grappling hooks to attach to the cells of the body and to move across host tissues. These fimbriae are produced in response to environmental conditions, and are assembled by a pro ....Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common bacterium which causes serious life-threatening infections of individuals with cystic fibrosis, AIDS or who have suffered severe burns or are undergoing cancer chemotherapy. This pathogen, and a number of other important infectious bacteria use surface filaments, called fimbriae, like grappling hooks to attach to the cells of the body and to move across host tissues. These fimbriae are produced in response to environmental conditions, and are assembled by a process that is also used in the export of toxins and other pathogenic molecules. This project will characterise genes which specify and control this system, as a means to design better treatments against such bacteria, many of which are resistant to antibiotic treatment.Read moreRead less