The human hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a member of the hepadnavirus family that includes a number of other very similar host-specific viruses. Acute HBV infection can produce extreme variation in disease, ranging from asymptomatic infection, to acute transient hepatitis with jaundice, or fulminant hepatitis leading to liver failure (Hollinger, 1996). The identification of viral genes that affect the severity of disease is a major current goal in medical virology. For example, there is considerable ....The human hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a member of the hepadnavirus family that includes a number of other very similar host-specific viruses. Acute HBV infection can produce extreme variation in disease, ranging from asymptomatic infection, to acute transient hepatitis with jaundice, or fulminant hepatitis leading to liver failure (Hollinger, 1996). The identification of viral genes that affect the severity of disease is a major current goal in medical virology. For example, there is considerable interest in identifying the genes of the influenza genome responsible for high mortality outbreaks; with the human immunodeficiency virus, the virus that causes AIDS, variants deleted in the nef gene region cause a less rapidly progressing infection and have attracted attention as a possible prototype for an attenuated vaccine. We propose to investigate how the different genes of hepadnaviruses affect the course of infection and type of disease produced. Studies will be performed in ducks infected with the duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV) as these animals provide the only model system available in Australia. We will study both experimentally and naturally derived DHBV variants to explore the effects of genetic changes on the outcome of infection. This will enhance our understanding of this virus family and will provide models for comparison with HBV infection. This knowledge may then contribute to our ability to manage and control HBV disease in humans.Read moreRead less
HIV Phenotypes Important For The Establishment Of Persistent Reservoirs In The Central Nervous System And Which Impact Neurotropism And Neuropathogenesis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$762,492.00
Summary
This grant will determine whether or not the CNS is a reservoir for HIV and identify the cellular targets of persistent infection and type of HIV-1 present.
Optimizing The Management Of Osteoarthritis Through Research And Innovation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$2,889,164.00
Summary
I will test new treatments aimed at slowing disease progression and reducing pain in osteoarthritis (OA) by targeting specific disease pathways (metabolic factors and inflammation). I will undertake work examining the causes of hip OA where little is known. All required methodologies and resources to undertake this work are available and the trials underpinned by strong scientific rationale. This research program has high potential for translation and for reducing the burden and cost of OA.
Determinants And Impact Of Patient-Centred Health Outcomes In Psoriatic Arthritis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$84,069.00
Summary
Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic joint disease which is linked with the skin condition called psoriasis. People who have psoriatic arthritis can develop deformities in their joints and suffer from decreased quality of life. Psoriatic arthritis can present in a wide range of ways, but the reasons for this are not understood. This research aims to explain some of this variation and to predict which patients will develop more severe disease so treatment can be targeted to improve their outcome.
Airway Inflammometry For Asthma And COPD: Practitioner Fellowship Peter G Gibson
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$568,892.00
Summary
Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease will receive the benefits of personalized medicine with this Fellowship funding. Dr Gibson, an international leader in this field, has identified key biomarkers that will allow treatments to be rationalized based on the underlying disease mechanisms. This research will translate the benefits on modern technology and apply these to individualized care for people with asthma and COPD, who can expect fewer lung attacks and better quality of life.