I am a molecular virologist researching the host response to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with the aim of understanding how the liver clears HCV infection. An understanding of this process will hopefully lead to novel antiviral strategies to combat not only HCV but a broad range of other viral infections.
Centre For Clinical Research Excellence In Aboriginal Health: Sexually Transmitted And Bloodborne Viral Infections
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$2,553,623.00
Summary
This proposed new CCRE will bring together the leading Australian institution dedicated to clinical research on sexually transmitted and blood borne viral infections, and the peak organisation for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services. Working with nominated Aboriginal community controlled health services, the Centre will conduct innovative research that will identify new approaches to diagnosing and managing these infections while at the same time developing improved clinical guidelin ....This proposed new CCRE will bring together the leading Australian institution dedicated to clinical research on sexually transmitted and blood borne viral infections, and the peak organisation for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services. Working with nominated Aboriginal community controlled health services, the Centre will conduct innovative research that will identify new approaches to diagnosing and managing these infections while at the same time developing improved clinical guidelines and research capacity within the sector.Read moreRead less
Deadly Liver Mob: Engaging Aboriginal People In Viral Hepatitis, HIV And Sexual Health Services
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$848,441.00
Summary
Rates of blood-borne viruses and sexually transmissible infections are high among the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population. A local initiative in western Sydney has trialed a new approach to engagement and care of Aboriginal people. We will implement this approach in services across NSW and evaluate its effectiveness as a sustainable and acceptable model for engaging Aboriginal people in care and develop an implementation plan for future roll-out to other services.
Tapasin And Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I Antigen Presentation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$226,650.00
Summary
An effective T cell response (cellular immune response) to infections is vital to a functional immune system. Normally, proteins are cleaved into small molecules called peptides and these peptides are in turn presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex molecules to T cells. However, we have only partial understanding of what determines the choice of peptides that are finally presented to T cells. Recent research suggests that a molecule called tapasin may also influence the choice of peptides. ....An effective T cell response (cellular immune response) to infections is vital to a functional immune system. Normally, proteins are cleaved into small molecules called peptides and these peptides are in turn presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex molecules to T cells. However, we have only partial understanding of what determines the choice of peptides that are finally presented to T cells. Recent research suggests that a molecule called tapasin may also influence the choice of peptides. This research proposal aims to examine the role of tapasin in this regard. A thorough understanding of the basic principles of peptide presentation to T cells is crucial to the design of effective vaccines. Furthermore it will also broaden our understanding of immunological responses to cancer, autoimmune diseases and infections.Read moreRead less