Fungi are increasingly causing life-threatening infections. Little is known about the mechanisms underlying these infections. We will compare the genomes of high and low virulent fungal strains to gain insides into the basis of these differences by using C. gattii as model of a globally highly pathogenic fungus. The findings will be generalized by comparing the obtained results with the genomes of other important pathogenic fungi to develop a scientific basis for better treatment strategies.
Characterisation Of Porphyromonas Gingivalis And Treponema Denticola Interactions In The Development Of A Pathogenic Biofilm
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$566,200.00
Summary
Gum disease (periodontitis) is an inflammatory disease caused by bacterial pathogens that is the major cause of tooth loss in adults. It is also associated with systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease. In this study we will determine the mechanisms by which two bacterial species work together to produce the pathogenic dental plaque that causes disease.
Helicobacter Pylori Acquisition Of Host Cholesterol: Its Role In Inflammation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$417,380.00
Summary
The bacterium Helicobacter pylori is present in the stomach of half the world’s population. It is estimated that 20% of these people will suffer from peptic ulcer disease, whereas as many as 1% will develop stomach cancer later in life. The common factor in all these diseases is the inflammation induced by the bacterium. This project will investigate a new mechanism by which H. pylori causes inflammation and how dietary cholesterol may be involved in this process.
The Role Of Clostridium Difficile Spore Interactions With The Host In Gastrointestinal Infection And Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$511,467.00
Summary
Hospital-acquired infections with the bacterium Clostridium difficile are a major global public health concern with highly virulent isolates emerging overseas in 2002 and in Australia in 2010. These have spread through our hospitals and are also found in the community. This project will increase our understanding of how these strains cause severe gut disease, which is critical for the development of improved strategies for preventing and treating these infections and reducing antibiotic use.
Identifying The Physiological Conditions That Promote Lateral Gene Transfer And Evolution Of New Streptococcal Pathovars
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$415,907.00
Summary
In the last few decades, the diseases caused by the three human pathogens, groups A, B and G streptococcus have undergone a transformation. The exchange of DNA between these species is speculated to play a role in this changing disease association. In this proposal we will identify the specific physiological and growth conditions that promote DNA transfer. Such information may help in our understanding of how new pathogenic strains of streptococci arise.