Role Of Toll-like Receptor 7 In Rhinovirus-induced Asthma Exacerbation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$697,248.00
Summary
One third of the annual asthma-related health care expenditure may be attributable to asthma-related hospitalisations. Even mild asthmatics experience severe exacerbations at a rate of almost one per year1 and those attacks can be fatal. Rhinovirus (RV) causes the majority of asthma exacerbations which may be linked to an impaired antiviral interferon (IFN) response in asthmatics. RV is sensed by Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7, but the role of this innate host defence pathway in regulating antiviral
Asthma causes wheeze and shortness of breath via airway narrowing, with asthma attacks commonly caused by virus infections. We plan to investigate how airway narrowing during an asthma attack decreases the body’s ability to fight off a viral infection, causing prolonged infection, worse asthma symptoms, more airway inflammation and long-term damage within the airways. We will attempt to use current and novel treatments to reverse these problems, and improve treatment for asthma.
Effect Of Anti-IgE Antibody On Immune System Responses And Short-term Outcome In Acute Asthma In Children
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$571,752.00
Summary
We plan to undertake a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trial of anti-IgE antibody given at the time of an acute attack of asthma in children aged 6-12 years. The idea for this arose from our own novel data – IgE levels increase with the most common infection causing acute asthma. Given evidence the virus uses IgE to cause inflammation, giving anti-IgE during the attack should reduce the severity of the attack and produce a new, effective treatment for acute asthma.
First-in-human Evaluation Of A Novel Immunobiotic To Prevent Respiratory Infection
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,180,080.00
Summary
Respiratory infections are a leading cause of death and illness throughout the world. We have discovered a 'friendly' bacteria that can be applied up the nose to prevent ear infections and the 'flu in mice. We will now test this novel therapy in humans to check it is safe and that it stimulates the human immune system in the same way that it does in mice. This will provide essential information to conduct clinical trials, with the aim to produce a medicine that prevents respiratory infections.