Cell Surface Lectin Receptors For Attachment And Entry Of Influenza Viruses Into Cells Of The Innate Immune System
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$530,094.00
Summary
Influenza virus is a leading cause of respiratory infection and death worldwide. Infection of humans is initiated when the virus contacts cells lining the respiratory tract. Infection of epithelial cells leads to virus amplification whereas infection of immune cells results in virus destruction. Despite extensive research efforts, it is not clear how the virus infects these cells. This project aims to identify receptors on human cells used by influenza virus to attach to and infect immune cells.
The Role Of Noncoding Subgenomic Flavivirus RNA In Virus-host Interactions
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$624,429.00
Summary
Flaviviruses such as Dengue, Japanese encephalitis , and West Nile are major human pathogens causing more than 50 million infections per year. Elements in viral genome responsible for pathogenesis of these viruses are not well defined. Recently we have identified a unique for these viruses noncoding subgenomic flavivirus RNA (sfRNA) and showed that it is contributing to viral pathogenesis. In this proposal we aim to determine mechanisms by which sfRNA facilitates viral pathogenesis.
Roles Of The Hepatitis C Virus Glycoprotein E2 Variable Regions In Virus Entry, Immunogenicity And Immune Evasion.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$682,820.00
Summary
Hepatitis C Virus infects 200 million people world-wide with over 200,000 Australians infected with the disease. This project will examine how the surface proteins of HCV change their shape to evade antibody responses and how this effects the outcome of infection. We will further characterize a vaccine that elicits protective immunity to HCV to identify the optimal formulation for clinical trials.
Inhibitors Of West Nile Virus Protease As Antiviral Drugs
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$590,740.00
Summary
The West Nile Virus (WNV) was first isolated from a woman in the West Nile region of Uganda in 1937. It is one of ~70 known flaviviruses (e.g. Dengue fever, Yellow fever, West Nile, Kunjun, Japanese encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, tick-borne encephalitis, Australian encephalitis and the related hepatitis C virus) which annually infect hundreds of millions of people worldwide, particularly in tropical and sub-tropical areas, and cause major public health problems. WNV is endemic in people i ....The West Nile Virus (WNV) was first isolated from a woman in the West Nile region of Uganda in 1937. It is one of ~70 known flaviviruses (e.g. Dengue fever, Yellow fever, West Nile, Kunjun, Japanese encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, tick-borne encephalitis, Australian encephalitis and the related hepatitis C virus) which annually infect hundreds of millions of people worldwide, particularly in tropical and sub-tropical areas, and cause major public health problems. WNV is endemic in people in the Middle East, parts of Africa and Europe, but recent epidemics in Israel (1998), Romania (1996), United States (1999), and UK (2003), that have been traced to migratory birds, were characterized by severe symptoms , severe neurological pathology, and fatalities. In the USA alone there were 4,156 infections and 284 deaths in 2002, 9122 infections and 223 deaths in 2003, and this mosquito borne virus has quickly spread since 1999 through all USA states and into Canada and Mexico (http:--www.cdc.gov-ncidod-dvbid- westnile-index.htm). No treatments or vaccines are available. This project focuses on a viral enzyme, known as the West Nile Virus NS3 protease, that is essential for replication of the virus. By studying the enzyme in the laboratory we can design small molecules that block its function and these are potential leads for developing drug treatments for people infected, not only by this virus but potentially also other flaviviruses. A precedent is the success of inhibitors of HIV-1 protease that are the most effective treatment for humans with HIV-infections, and other viral proteases are now becoming recognized as viable antiviral targets for pharmaceutical development. The project involves experts on small molecule protease inhibitor design and development, proteases, and virology including West Nile virology. We expect to generate new information at the cutting edge of West Nile Virus and flavivirus research and promising new antiviral drug candidates.Read moreRead less
Hepatitis B Virus Drug Resistance: Impact On The Immunisation Program
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$113,322.00
Summary
ñAntiviral drug-associated vaccine escape mutantsî have the potential to jeopardize the hepatitis B immunization program. Which particular viral mutations or combination of mutations that can directly affect the clinical outcome of infection, especially in the context of vaccine induced immunity, are not known. In this study we will identify the clinical sequelae and public health consequences arising from the selection of these mutants.
Novel Antivirals For The Treatment Of Hendravirus Infection.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$199,227.00
Summary
Hendravirus outbreaks have become frequent and 7 human cases have been reported, this has resulted in 4 deaths. Currently we have no treatment options. Researchers at Griffith University and the CSIRO have developed a new treatment that attacks the virus by turning off the viral genes at the site of infection. The plan is to treat patients soon after infection to slow or stop the virus and allow patients to recover naturally from this highly lethal disease.
Determining The Clinical Effectiveness Of Antiviral Drugs Against Oseltamivir- And Laninamivir-resistant Influenza Viruses In Animal Models
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$388,067.00
Summary
Currently, the neuraminidase inhibitors are the only drugs that are effective against seasonal influenza viruses. However, viruses can develop resistance to these drugs. Using viruses with varied levels of resistance, the project will determine the effectiveness of different drug treatments in animal models. This will lead to better treatment for those patients seriously ill with drug-resistant influenza viruses.