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Microbial Involvement In The Development Of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$302,123.00
Summary
Despite extensive research investigating the causative agent(s) of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), the results of current studies remain inconclusive. One reason for this relates to study design and the sensitivity of techniques used. This project will investigate differences in the microbial composition and metabolic profiles of newly diagnosed IBD children as compared with matched controls. If successful, these results will provide insights into possible aetiological agent(s) of IBD.
An Exploration Of The Balance Between West Nile Virus Pathogenesis And Immune System Mediated Control
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$325,442.00
Summary
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito transmitted infectious disease that is emerging globally. Infection can lead to the development of fatal encephalitis and currently there is no vaccine available for human use. Killer T cells, a component of the immune system, are essential for viral clearance from the brain. This project aims to further explore WNV pathogenesis and whether killer T cells can be utilized to keep the infection localised and prevent the spread of the virus to the brain.
Human Genetic Susceptibility To Bacterial Invasion And The Interaction With Chronic Helminth Infections
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$377,040.00
Summary
A genetic study will be undertaken to identify genes that increase an individual’s risk of developing a bloodstream bacterial invasion following severe pneumonia, a leading cause of infant death world-wide. The risk of getting a bacterial infection is increased in individuals already infected with parasitic intestinal worms. This may also reduce drug and vaccine efficacy. Research will be undertaken to investigate these relationships for future drug and vaccination development.
The introduction of novel viruses such as influenza and Henipa viruses into the human population from animal reservoirs is often fatal as the virus is not attenuated by adaptation to the host. As we are immunologically naïve, efficient immunity cannot be mounted. T cells mediate the control and clearance of viruses, and can remember past infection or vaccination. Understanding the role of T responses to zoonotic viral infections is needed for development of novel preventative vaccines.