PB1-F2 Is Critical To Influenza A Virus Pathogenicity Through Activation Of The Inflammasome
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$663,919.00
Summary
Fatal Influenza A virus infections are excessive inflammation. We identified the IAV protein PB1-F2 as critical in driving excessive inflammation via activating the host inflammasome complex. Our study evaluates PB1-F2-mediated inflammation contribution to inflammatory responses. Identifying PB1-F2 in emerging IAV strains is invaluable in aiding health policy makers to quickly assess fatal IAV pandemics. Our research will potentially identify treatment targets towards reducing this inflammation
The Dual-edged Sword Of Zinc As An Innate Immune Antimicrobial Weapon Against Uropathogenic E. Coli
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$784,428.00
Summary
Infectious diseases are a major global health threat, and urinary tract infections (UTI) are one of the most common infectious diseases. Most UTI are caused by uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC). In order to cause infections, UPEC must be able to overcome our body’s first line of defence, the innate immune system. This project seeks to understand how our innate immune system uses zinc to combat bacterial infections, and how UPEC is able to defend against such responses in order to cause disease.