Role Of Streptococcus Agalactiae Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate Dehydrogenase (GAPDH) In Infection And Potential As A Target To Control Colonization In The Female Genital Tract
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$677,177.00
Summary
Extracellular proteins produced by pathogenic bacteria can facilitate microbial colonization of the host by mediating binding to host cells and by modulating the immune system. These proteins exert their effects by subverting specific elements of the immune system and this can allow infection to worsen. This project will increase our understanding of how this bacterium chronically colonizes humans and will identify the potential of a bacterial protein, termed GAPDH, as a target for control.
Interaction Of Group A Streptococci With Intracellular Innate Immune Defence
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$824,252.00
Summary
The pathogenic bacterium group A streptococcus (GAS) is estimated to cause ~700 million cases of self-limited throat or skin infection each year worldwide. GAS infections result in over 600,000 human deaths. This disease burden places GAS in the “top 10” causes of human infectious disease deaths worldwide. We have discovered a hitherto unknown mechanism by which GAS subvert the human immune system. An improved understanding of this mechanism will lead to novel ways to combat GAS infections.
Worldwide Molecular Analysis Of Streptococcus Pyogenes Scarlet Fever Outbreaks
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$544,041.00
Summary
The microorganism group A Streptococcus (also called GAS or Streptococcus pyogenes) ranks among the top 10 infectious disease killers of humans. Recently, outbreaks of scarlet fever have occurred in both Asia and the United Kingdom, placing a serious strain on health systems. The reasons underlying these outbreaks remain unknown. Our team will lead the global effort to characterise this rise in scarlet fever, and provide recommendations and solutions to health professionals.
Targeting The Human Immune Response To Bacterial Superantigens.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$165,424.00
Summary
This research investigates the human immune response to infection with toxin producing bacteria. Toxins activate the human immune system which can lead to serious illness or the development of disease that can progress rapidly and be associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Investigating the harmful effects of infection with toxin producing bacteria in humans and the damage caused by their toxins is essential for the development of effective therapeutic strategies.
Defining The Mechanism Of Invasive Disease Caused By Diverse Group A Streptococcal M Serotypes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$393,061.00
Summary
Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus; GAS) causes life-threatening invasive infections including flesh-eating disease and toxic shock syndrome (>600,000 cases and 163,000 deaths per year). We recently discovered the trigger for invasive disease in a globally disseminated GAS strain. The aim of this work is to determine whether this trigger applies to other strains associated with GAS invasive disease. These studies will allow the development of new therapeutics and treatments.
Public Health Interventions For The Control Of Group A Streptococcal Disease And Scabies In Endemic Populations
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$470,144.00
Summary
The bacterium Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality globally. The skin infestation scabies is an important portal of entry for GAS because it predisposes to skin sores. I propose to develop two research programs aimed at controlling these diseases: one is development of GAS vaccines and the other is investigating population-based interventions for control of scabies and related GAS skin infection.
The Efficacy Of Mass Drug Administration Strategies To Control Scabies In A Highly Endemic Population.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$705,396.00
Summary
Globally there are an estimated 300 million scabies cases annually. Many Pacific countries, including Fiji, have among the highest rates in the world. This island based study in Fiji will compare the short and long term efficacy of two mass treatment protocols using oral ivermectin or topical permethrin against conventional treatment. This study will be the first population-wide treatment trial for scabies that compares new interventions to standard of care treatment.