Control Of Combined Simian-human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection Utilising NK Cells Mediating Antigen-specific Antibody Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity - A Novel Vaccine Modality
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$432,587.00
Summary
Recently, progress was made in developing a vaccine against HIV. Our laboratory was selected to join a global collaboration trying to elucidate the key to this success. Attention has focused on non-neutralizing antibodies and our laboratory has developed a unique expertise in detecting such immune responses. This research will define, purify and manufacture these antibodies and test their ability to prevent HIV in animals with the ultimate aim of producing a vaccine for human use.
Exploiting the lymphatic system for next generation vaccine development . Vaccination is the most successful and cost-effective means of combating infectious diseases. This project will look at how vaccine adjuvants work and will help the development of new vaccines against infections in both animals and man. It will also promote the training of Australian scientists in the field of vaccine research and development.
The Host Response To Highly Pathogenic Influenza Virus
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$237,981.00
Summary
Highly pathogenic influenza infections are a global health concern and cause global panic. There is no effective therapy available; for example and the death rate for H5N1 infection is ~60%. Here we propose to further understand host lung response to highly pathogenic influenza with a view to develop new therapies for this urgent issue.
New Mechanisms Regulating S100 Protein Function In Inflammation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$813,929.00
Summary
This project will examine new ways which affect the major effector cells in allergic inflammation and asthma regulated by novel S100 protein mediators. We find a natural protein (S100A12) of the innate immune system, in cells in the lungs of patients with acute asthma. S100A12 activates mast cells to release mediators that trigger asthma attack. We will characterise the proteins with which this protein binds on the cell surface and and determine how this mediates their activation.
Enhancing Host Defence Against Intracellular Pathogens By Preventing INOS Interaction With A Negative Regulator, SSB-2
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$448,881.00
Summary
Secretion of nitric oxide (NO) gas by immune cells is a critical defence mechanism for the killing of intracellular pathogens. Production of NO within cells is regulated by the enzyme iNOS. We propose that preventing iNOS from interacting with its natural inhibitor protein (SSB-2) would allow enhanced and prolonged iNOS expression leading to increased NO and increased killing of pathogens such as the mycobacterium tuberculosis and the Leishmania parasite.
The role of the innate immune response in the asymptomatic nature of viral infections in bats. Bats are natural reservoirs to a variety of viruses, including many that are lethal in humans and other mammals. This project will generate fundamental information on the mechanisms involved in the asymptomatic nature of viral infections in bats and contribute towards the development of new antiviral strategies for other susceptible species.
The role of a novel protein, interferon epsilon, in reproductive tract immunity. This project aims to develop a world-first description of a new protein that has a protective role against female reproductive tract infections. This unique protein, called interferon epsilon, was discovered in our laboratory. This project will facilitate development of new therapeutic approaches of benefit in diseases such as Chlamydia and Herpes Simplex Virus.