The Role Of Capsid Protein Nucleolar Localisation In Chikungunya Virus: Implications For Vaccine Development
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$520,520.00
Summary
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a globally widespread mosquito-borne alphavirus capable of causing considerable human morbidity and mortality. With no CHIKV vaccine or antiviral available this proposal aims to develop a live attenuated CHIKV vaccine, rationally designed by investigating the host cell nucleolar trafficking of CHIKV capsid protein. This vaccine has the potential to provide cross-protection against additional arthritogenic alphaviruses endemic to Australia such as Ross River virus.
Characterising The Beta-catenin Nuclear Targeting Pathway In Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$485,081.00
Summary
Bowel cancer is caused by inherited gene mutations that cause build-up of beta-catenin protein in the cell nucleus. Bowel cancer is the second largest cause of cancer deaths in Australia. We aim to study the mechanisms controlling beta-catenin accumulation in the nucleus. We will characterise new signalling pathways that control movement and activity of beta-catenin in the nucleus. This will yield insights into the role of beta-catenin in cancer and possible targets for therapy.
Subcellular Trafficking Of P Proteins Of Human Pathogenic Viruses: Roles In Viral Pathogenicity And Targeting For Therapeutics
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$578,352.00
Summary
In order to infect humans, pathogenic viruses such as rabies, Nipah, Hendra and Australian bat lyssavirus must be able to evade the immune response. To do this, viruses produce "interferon antagonists" that interfere with specific immune processes by mechanisms that are not fully understood. Our study will characterise the mechanisms used by rabies and other viruses to block immunity, and identify strategies to disable viral immune evasion, rendering these lethal viruses susceptible to destructi ....In order to infect humans, pathogenic viruses such as rabies, Nipah, Hendra and Australian bat lyssavirus must be able to evade the immune response. To do this, viruses produce "interferon antagonists" that interfere with specific immune processes by mechanisms that are not fully understood. Our study will characterise the mechanisms used by rabies and other viruses to block immunity, and identify strategies to disable viral immune evasion, rendering these lethal viruses susceptible to destruction by the human immune system.Read moreRead less
Rotavirus is the main cause of severe diarrhoea in children worldwide. In this project, we aim to understand the nature of the first-line immune response to rotavirus in the gut, and elucidate how RV counteracts this response to promote infection. These studies will increase our understanding of how rotavirus causes disease, and facilitate the choice of rotavirus targets for drug development and improved vaccines.