Characterising The Role Of Streptokinase Polymorphism In Invasive Pathogenesis Of Streptococcus Pyogenes.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$480,535.00
Summary
Invasive bacterial pathogens such as Streptococcus pyogenes, can hijack host proteins and use them to facilitate the disease process. S. pyogenes secrete streptokinase to activate a host protease (plasminogen) which is used by the bacterium to invade through host tissue. This project will characterise the molecular mechanisms involved in streptokinase mediated activation of plasminogen which will assist the generation of novel therapeutics to treat invasive diseases.
Unified Model For Group A Streptococcal Invasive Disease Initiation.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$605,221.00
Summary
Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus; GAS) is a bacterium that causes human skin and throat infections as well as highly invasive diseases including necrotising fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock-like syndrome. We have recently discovered the trigger mechanism for GAS invasive disease. We hypothesise that the initial host response at the site of infection selects for a GAS invasive phenotype. We propose to examine the chain of events which result in tissue invasion in order to unde ....Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus; GAS) is a bacterium that causes human skin and throat infections as well as highly invasive diseases including necrotising fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock-like syndrome. We have recently discovered the trigger mechanism for GAS invasive disease. We hypothesise that the initial host response at the site of infection selects for a GAS invasive phenotype. We propose to examine the chain of events which result in tissue invasion in order to understand these disease processes and allow the development of future therapeutic interventions.Read moreRead less
Role Of Bacteriophage-encoded Streptodornase In Invasive Disease Caused By Diverse Group A Streptococcal M Serotypes.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$832,544.00
Summary
Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus, GAS) is estimated to cause ~700 million cases of self-limited throat or skin infection each year worldwide. Invasive GAS disease occurs in approximately 1-1000 cases, with associated mortality of 25%. We have recently discovered that a viral infection can reprogram GAS for invasive disease propensity. We will investigate whether this phenomenon is widespread, in order to understand this process and develop future therapeutics.