Characterization Of MAIT Cell Function And Frequency At The Rectal Mucosa And Gastrointestinal Tract During HIV/SIV Infection
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$318,768.00
Summary
This project focuses on determining how HIV infection alters the function of rare, unconventional immune cell populations in the gastrointestinal tract. These cells are not well described in humans or primate models of HIV infection, but we will determine whether these cells are depleted by HIV infection and whether there are interventions that can boost the function of these cells in order better fight HIV infection.
Understanding And Improving The Non-human Primate Model For Human Immunodeficiency Virus Vaccine-induced Mucosal Immunity.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$302,123.00
Summary
The overall aim of this project if to generate a more effective vaccination for HIV, using an animal model of the disease. We will test vaccination methods targeting immunity to the reproductive tract, in order to attack the virus where it is usually first encountered.
Mucous In Heterogeneous And Progressive Early Cystic Fibrosis Lung Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$347,948.00
Summary
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common genetically acquired, life-shortening chronic illness affecting young Australians today. Individuals with CF have a reduced ability to clear mucous from the airways resulting in respiratory infections and inflammation. This project will quantify the biochemical and biophysical properties of mucous in young children with CF to generate novel insights into the pathogenesis of early disease, biomarkers of disease progression and therapeutic targets.
Identifying T Cell Correlates Of Protective Immunity To Malaria In Childhood
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$396,026.00
Summary
Malaria claims nearly one million lives each year, mostly children. Although those living in endemic regions can acquire natural immunity, it develops slowly and isn`t completely protective. This project studies the impact of different levels of malaria exposure and age on the development of a protective immune response in children. By understanding the effect of high malaria exposure in the development of immunity it is hoped that new avenues for drug development may be identified.
Understanding The Role Of NS Segments In Evading Influenza A Virus-specific Humoral And T Cell Immunity
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$213,812.00
Summary
Influenza viruses developed two ways to survive against host immune response: (i) mutating in its genes to escape host immune response, which may cause a new pandemic; (ii) using its NS1 protein to impair host immune response. However, little is known on how these two processes occur and whether NS1 could influence the outcome of escape mutants. By using virological and immunological methods, this study will show how viruses use different NS1 to enhance the viral escape mechanism.