Viral infections of the gut are one of the most debilitating infections one can suffer from. Noroviruses are the most common causative agents of viral-associated gastroenteritis but unfortunately little is known regarding their biology and pathogenesis. Our study aims to investigate the replication and pathogenesis of a mouse norovirus to shed light on similar aspects relating to human norovirus infection. We aim to understand how virus infection in cells leads to disease symptoms.
Molecular Characterization Of Human Caliciviruses Causing Gastroenteritis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$173,380.00
Summary
A common cause of outbreaks of vomiting and diarrhoea in the community are small viruses approximately 30 nm in diameter. During outbreaks of such viral gastroenteritis, large numbers of people may become ill. The viruses may be transmitted in contaminated food or drink, or passed from person to person. Outbreaks have been associated with hospital wards, nursing homes, school camps, cruise ships and airline flights. The viruses causing these outbreaks are human caliciviruses. They have a structu ....A common cause of outbreaks of vomiting and diarrhoea in the community are small viruses approximately 30 nm in diameter. During outbreaks of such viral gastroenteritis, large numbers of people may become ill. The viruses may be transmitted in contaminated food or drink, or passed from person to person. Outbreaks have been associated with hospital wards, nursing homes, school camps, cruise ships and airline flights. The viruses causing these outbreaks are human caliciviruses. They have a structural resemblance to the rabbit virus recently released in Australia, but possess an alternative host range, and they produce different symptoms in the infected host. The human caliciviruses are difficult to study in the laboratory. They do not replicate in cell culture systems and no animal is known to show symptoms of infection. In this project, the techniques of genetic engineering are being used to develop diagnostic reagents for the viruses, and to study the functions of the proteins encoded by the viral genes. In the longer term, it may be feasible to develop vaccines and drugs against these viruses, but first it is necessary to discover how many types are circulating world-wide and in Australia, and to identify potential targets for antiviral drugs during virus replication.Read moreRead less
RV3 Rotavirus Vaccine: Developing A Neonatal Rotavirus Vaccine Formulation For The Global Community
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$135,075.00
Summary
Rotavirus infection is the leading cause of severe dehydrating gastroenteritis responsible for approximately 600,000 deaths per year in children under 5 years of age worldwide. There is a commercial and public health opportunity to develop a new rotavirus vaccine that can be given at birth. By modifying the way the vaccine is made we hope that it will be more acceptable and easily delivered to children in remote communities and developing countries without the need for refrigeration.
RV3 Rotavirus Vaccine: Phase I And II Clinical Trials Of A Human Neonatal Rotavirus Vaccine For The Global Community
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,099,123.00
Summary
Rotavirus infection is the leading cause of gastroenteritis responsible for over 600,000 deaths each year in children less than 5 years. Although 2 commercial vaccines are now available in Australia, the high cost and concern about the risk of side effects are barriers to widespread vaccine introduction. The goal of this study is to develop an effective rotavirus vaccine, administered to newborns that is affordable for the global community, able to be introduced cheaply in developing countries w ....Rotavirus infection is the leading cause of gastroenteritis responsible for over 600,000 deaths each year in children less than 5 years. Although 2 commercial vaccines are now available in Australia, the high cost and concern about the risk of side effects are barriers to widespread vaccine introduction. The goal of this study is to develop an effective rotavirus vaccine, administered to newborns that is affordable for the global community, able to be introduced cheaply in developing countries where the burden of morbidity and mortality is greatest.Read moreRead less
Bacterial Inhibition Of Cell Signalling And Apoptosis During Gastrintestinal Infection
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$542,011.00
Summary
E. coli are a major cause of severe diarrhoeal disease. In order to establish infection, E. coli inhibits a host response where cells with bacteria stuck to them are ‘killed off’ and excreted as waste. This recent discovery illuminated an unknown role for cell death in the immune response during bacterial gastroenteritis. This project will study this phenomenon further to better understand the host immune response to infection and also other gut diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease.