The proposed program of work aims to shed light on dietary, environmental and genetic factors that may be related to the risk of childhood cancers. Identifying these risk factors, and how they interact with each other, will provide clues as to how childhood cancers may be prevented. The research program includes a number of Australian and international studies, which will involve collaboration between doctors and research scientists from a range of disciplines.
Utilising Human Primary Immunodeficiencies To Study Lymphocyte Differentiation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$429,346.00
Summary
Human immunodeficiencies are diseases arising from naturally occurring mutations. In this instance, the specific genes mutated in the immunodeficiencies we study have been identified. However, it is unclear how defects in these genes make an individual manifest as an immune deficient state, rendering them vulnerable to disease. By studying immune cells from these individuals we hope to uncover the normal function of these genes and subsequently provide for new therapies for these conditions.
Combating The Reemergence Of Tuberculosis With New Vaccine Strategies
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$431,000.00
Summary
Tuberculosis is a major global public health problem with significant morbidity and mortality. This project aims to generate new, highly efficacious vaccination regimens against tuberculosis, especially pulmonary tuberculosis, which is the most difficult manifestation of the disease to control. The outcomes of this project have the potential to save millions of lives worldwide and to decrease socioeconomic burden of tuberculosis, particularly in the context of HIV co-infection.
Importance Of Functional Antibodies Against Infectious Diseases
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$431,000.00
Summary
Antibodies are highly functional proteins capable of recognizing infectious disease pathogens and instructing surrounding immune cells to attack them. This project aims to identify specific antibody targets on HIV and Mycobacterium Tuberculosis associated with protection/control of disease and to understand the mechanisms behind the most functional antibodies. Ultimately, these studies will guide the development of future vaccines and therapies against these deadly pathogens.
Optimising Treatment As Prevention Strategies For Hepatitis C And HIV
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$471,809.00
Summary
New evidence shows how hepatitis C (HCV) and HIV transmission can be reduced dramatically through timely treatment initiation - treatment as prevention (TasP). TasP has re-focused attention on early HCV and HIV detection and treatment. Through observational studies, randomised control trials and the development of innovative surveillance systems, this fellowship will inform ways to maximise the potential of HCV and HIV prevention responses in Australia and internationally in this new TasP era.
Mechanisms Of Abnormal Expression Of The IGF2 Gene In Disorders Affectin Foetal Growth
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$420,872.00
Summary
The IGF2 gene is crucial for foetal growth. Only the copy inherited from the father is active, a phenomenon named parental imprinting. In some children with foetal overgrowth or growth retardation, the deregulation of imprinting of the IGF2 gene during the first days of foetal development will influence subsequent growth and will also have major implications in post-natal and adult life. We will investigate the mechanisms resulting in abnormal imprinting of IGF2 early in development.