Mechanisms underlying acute changes in lung function and airway responsiveness following respiratory viral infections

Funded Activity Summary

This study will investigate the mechanisms responsible for the increased airway responsiveness seen during respiratory viral infections to the common viruses of influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Respiratory viral infections alter lung function and increase airway responsiveness in man. In addition, respiratory viral infections early in life are a risk factor for the subsequent development of asthma. The mechanisms responsible for this are unknown. Both the infecting virus and host factors, such as age of infection, gender and genetic predisposition, are likely to be important. OUTCOMES and SIGNIFICANCE: These studies will provide a comprehensive assessment of the effects of acute viral respiratory infections on lung function and airway responsiveness using cutting edge techniques developed in our labs. The results will provide new insights into how these infections cause lung disease and may provide clues for new approaches to prevent the adverse effects of these common respiratory viral infections.

Funded Activity Details

Start Date: 01-01-2007

End Date: 01-01-2009

Funding Scheme: NHMRC Project Grants

Funding Amount: $444,878.00

Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council

Research Topics

ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)

Respiratory Diseases

ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)

There are no SEO codes available for this funding activity

Other Keywords

airway epithelium | airway hyperresponsiveness | animal model | host defence | influenza | innate immunity | lung function | physiology of the respiratory system | respiratory syncytial virus | respiratory viral infections

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