Validating protozoa-specific drug targets using peptides from biodiverse gene fragment libraries. Cryptosporidium and the trypanosomes are protozoan parasites, which have a global impact on the health, survival and economic development of millions of people and animals world wide. New therapies for the diseases they cause are urgently required. We describe a novel means of identifying protozoa-specific peptides that will inhibit the formation of essential protein complexes, which have no effect ....Validating protozoa-specific drug targets using peptides from biodiverse gene fragment libraries. Cryptosporidium and the trypanosomes are protozoan parasites, which have a global impact on the health, survival and economic development of millions of people and animals world wide. New therapies for the diseases they cause are urgently required. We describe a novel means of identifying protozoa-specific peptides that will inhibit the formation of essential protein complexes, which have no effect on the mammalian host. Candidate peptides will then be used to validate these protein complexes as new targets for the development of peptide-based therapeutic compounds. This project will validate novel targets for the development of new treatments for these diseases.Read moreRead less
Elucidation of genetic and physiological factors controlling biosynthesis of sesquiterpenoids in sandalwood, Santalum spp. Plantation sandalwood removes pressure from natural populations and is a profitable long term investment. Australia is in a highly competitive position with regards to market supply but this cannot be taken for granted. This research seeks to understand the complex biology of sandalwood using the latest genomic and molecular technologies. This knowledge will be applied thro ....Elucidation of genetic and physiological factors controlling biosynthesis of sesquiterpenoids in sandalwood, Santalum spp. Plantation sandalwood removes pressure from natural populations and is a profitable long term investment. Australia is in a highly competitive position with regards to market supply but this cannot be taken for granted. This research seeks to understand the complex biology of sandalwood using the latest genomic and molecular technologies. This knowledge will be applied through directed, marker-assisted tree selection and improved plantation management. Ultimately we are developing a highly advanced production system with which Australia can lead Sandalwood production. Sandalwood plantations use a variety of native perennial hosts, increase biodiversity, help manage underground water resources and address carbon sequestration demands.Read moreRead less