Epithelial cell surface mucins are large complex proteins found on the surface of all mucosal epithelial tissues, for example in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, reproductive and urinary tracts. Most bacterial and viral pathogens enter the body via mucosal tissues. We have recently demonstrated that mucin proteins are a vital component of initial defence against mucosal pathogens. Defects in these proteins probably predispose individuals to common chronic infective and inflammatory diseases. T ....Epithelial cell surface mucins are large complex proteins found on the surface of all mucosal epithelial tissues, for example in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, reproductive and urinary tracts. Most bacterial and viral pathogens enter the body via mucosal tissues. We have recently demonstrated that mucin proteins are a vital component of initial defence against mucosal pathogens. Defects in these proteins probably predispose individuals to common chronic infective and inflammatory diseases. The proposed research aims to explore the mechanims by which mucins protect from infection, with a focus on the gastrointestinal tract. Gastrointestinal infections remain one of the major causes of mortality in children in undeveloped countries. We believe that these proteins are a critical hereto unrecognised element of immunity and that the proposed studies will have broad significance for treatment and prevention of infection. Additionally, understanding the function of mucins could lead to the development of new drugs to treat epithelial inflammation such as that seen in inflammatory bowel diseases and respiratory diseases such as asthma and cystic fibrosis.Read moreRead less
Understanding The Role Of MAIT Cells In Health And Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$547,593.00
Summary
A specialised set of T lymphocytes called Mucosal Associated Invariant T (MAIT) cells protect us from bacteria and yeast at mucosal sites where the body's immune defences are most easily breached, e.g. gut, oral cavity, airways & reproductive tract. This study investigates the role of MAIT cells in health and in diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, peptic ulceration, periodontitis and tuberculosis. Controlling MAIT cells could help in treating these conditions.
Acupuncture And Mucosal Immunity In The Upper Respiratory Tract
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$383,082.00
Summary
Many Australians seek complementary and alternate medicine for the treatment of allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis. There is evidence that acupuncture treatment is clinically beneficial for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. This project will produce new information that will provide a scientific basis of how acupuncture influences the immune response and modulates inflammation. Broader application to other inflammatory diseases and therapeutic interventions is possible.
Coordinating Neuroimmune Sensory Networks In Health And Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$884,405.00
Summary
Living organisms use cellular rhythms to optimize their energy use and cellular responses. Our proposal aims to produce significant new fundamental knowledge by elucidating the fundamental cellular and molecular biology of innate cells, their role in mucosal homeostasis and tissue repair pathways in the gut. Understanding this foundational process of cellular regulation will generate new basic knowledge and may lead to better management systems.
Development Of A Novel Mannan-based Avian Influenza Vaccine
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$195,566.00
Summary
We have a sugar (mannan) that can be used to increase immune responses. We have found that mannan decreases the dose of inactivated virus needed for intranasal immunization. We will investigate if dose sparing is seen when given intramuscularly. This method will be first tried with the human flu virus and if successful will be tried with the bird flu virus. If the preparation can protect mice and ferrets from human or bird flu infection it could develop into a human vaccine against bird flu.