Genomic Analysis Of Host Response To Influenza A Infection
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$168,530.00
Summary
Influenza virus infects millions of people globally. However, it remains poorly understood why some infected individuals succumb to life threatening complications whilst others recovered relatively unaffected. This study use advance molecular technique to study influenza infection. It aims to identify the key steps in our immune systems that are progressively disrupted during influenza infection and how this process lead to a break down in our natural defence against the virus.
The Aetiology And Prevention Of Pneumonia Of Indigenous Children In Northern Australia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$344,258.00
Summary
This research aims to identify the causes of pneumonia in Indigenous children and to find out whether new and existing vaccines can reduce the amount of infections and their complications.
Improving Outcomes Of Severe Bacterial Infections In Northern Australia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$217,274.00
Summary
Severe infections such as pneumonia can cause failure of vital organs (severe sepsis) and subsequent death. 30-40% of people who develop severe sepsis die, even with the best modern therapies. Sepsis is five times more common in northern Australia than elsewhere. In this program of research, we plan to test new therapies for sepsis; to determine the causes of and risk factors for severe pneumonia in northern Australia; and to use this information to inform new guidelines for the management of se ....Severe infections such as pneumonia can cause failure of vital organs (severe sepsis) and subsequent death. 30-40% of people who develop severe sepsis die, even with the best modern therapies. Sepsis is five times more common in northern Australia than elsewhere. In this program of research, we plan to test new therapies for sepsis; to determine the causes of and risk factors for severe pneumonia in northern Australia; and to use this information to inform new guidelines for the management of sepsis and pneumonia in northern Australia.Read moreRead less
Dissecting Mechanisms Of Generalised Immune Activation And Cellular Dysfunction In HIV Infection
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$422,576.00
Summary
How HIV infection compromises the host immune system is still not well understood. We will study how HIV surface proteins contribute to heightened immune activation during chronic infection. This generalised activation eventually leads to dysfunctional cellular immune responses and loss of partial control of infection. We will additionally investigate the extent and impact of the loss of functional immune responses in chronic HIV infection.
The Genetics And Mechanisms Of Resistance To The Zoonotic Highly Pathogenic Influenza Virus In Avian Species
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$337,373.00
Summary
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) poses a serious pandemic risk. This project will investigate the genetic basis and mechanisms underlying resistance to HPAI in birds. It will explore the role of immune genes in resistance to HPAI in six bird species which vary in their susceptibility to HPAI. Functional tests of resistance genes will be performed to determine how these genes can provide resistance to HPAI. This study will assist in the development of strategies to mitigate disease risks.
Immunological Changes During Pregnancy And The Impact On Viral Hepatitis Infection
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$353,355.00
Summary
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) can cause long term health problems particularly affecting the liver and can be passed from mother to baby. Despite the availability of a HBV vaccine babies can still become infected. During pregnancy there are changes in a woman’s immune system which may impact on HBV infection and make transmission to the baby more likely. This research aims to explore the changes in a woman’s immune system and the impact this has on risks for hepatitis and transmission to the baby.
Dissecting The Mechanisms Of Vaccine Immunogenicity And Induction Of Protective Immunity Against Influenza Virus
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$365,145.00
Summary
Influenza pandemics have historically led to worldwide morbidity and mortality. Vaccination remains to be the only plausible strategy to limit widespread mortality as a result of an influenza pandemic. The parts of the immune system important in protecting individuals from influenza virus are poorly understood. This research aims to understand the important correlates of protective immunity in order to improve vaccine design.