Functional Genomics Of Malaria Liver Infection And Transmission
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$470,144.00
Summary
Chemotherapy is the front line defense against malaria but resistance is emerging. The WHO has advised that new drugs should target parasite stages that perpetuate the transmission of malaria to break the cycle of infection. We have identified proteins that are essential for the two transmissive stages of the most deadly parasite to infect their hosts. We will determine the precise function of these proteins and the mechanisms they govern. This may guide the development of new interventions.
Red Cell Polymorphisms and Malaria. Certain red blood cell disorders have been associated with innate protection against malaria infection. However many early studies were inconclusive. We intend to carry out a comprehensive study to investigate the effect of red blood cell differences on the invasion and/or growth of Plasmodium falciparum in vitro using improved techniques. Identification of red cell components involved in interaction with P.falciparum would give a better understanding of host ....Red Cell Polymorphisms and Malaria. Certain red blood cell disorders have been associated with innate protection against malaria infection. However many early studies were inconclusive. We intend to carry out a comprehensive study to investigate the effect of red blood cell differences on the invasion and/or growth of Plasmodium falciparum in vitro using improved techniques. Identification of red cell components involved in interaction with P.falciparum would give a better understanding of host parasite interactions which may in turn suggest novel approaches or pathways to persue. This may eventually lead to the development of novel therapeutics.
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Molecular dissection of malaria parasite motility and host-cell invasion across the lifecycle. Malaria parasites move in a unique way, gliding across cell surfaces and infecting host cells using a unique molecular motor. This research aims to understand the molecular mechanics behind parasite movement and use this to develop novel drugs that might throw a spanner in the parasite motor, blocking movement and thereby preventing malaria disease.
Identification of structural proteins in the tissue cyst wall of Toxoplasma gondii. Most infections with Toxoplasma gondii are asymptomatic, however, infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage or blindness, deafness and mental retardation in the developing baby. Furthermore, in AIDS patients, toxoplasmosis is the leading cause of fatal encephalitis as the normally dormant tissue cysts are reactivated in the absence of an effective immune system. In Australia, it has been estimated that ~ ....Identification of structural proteins in the tissue cyst wall of Toxoplasma gondii. Most infections with Toxoplasma gondii are asymptomatic, however, infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage or blindness, deafness and mental retardation in the developing baby. Furthermore, in AIDS patients, toxoplasmosis is the leading cause of fatal encephalitis as the normally dormant tissue cysts are reactivated in the absence of an effective immune system. In Australia, it has been estimated that ~30% of the population is infected with T. gondii and the occurrence of congenital toxoplasmosis is 0.2% of live births, which translates to roughly 500 cases/year. Our research will identify structural proteins in Toxoplasma cyst walls that will lead to the design of new strategies to control the diseases caused by these parasites.Read moreRead less
Discovery Early Career Researcher Award - Grant ID: DE120101529
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$375,000.00
Summary
Transmission dynamics modelling of zoonotic neglected tropical diseases. This project will develop mathematical models to simulate zoonotic disease transmission and control. Results will provide novel insight for policy makers into effective interventions for schistosomiasis, echinococcosis and clonorchiasis, as well as provide a methodological platform for adaptation to other zoonotic emerging and re-emerging diseases.
A novel approach for controlling insect vectors of human disease. Insects are responsible for transmitting a wide variety of debilitating human diseases such as malaria, dengue and yellow fever. Unfortunately, there are very few options available for controlling these insect pests. This project will develop a novel, eco-friendly approach for control of mosquitoes and other important disease vectors.