SiRNA Induced Transcriptional Silencing Of HIV-1: Elucidating The Mechanisms And Exploring Options For Delivery
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$512,631.00
Summary
Current drug therapy for HIV is for life We have discovered a set of molecules that will turn off the ability of HIV to reproduce itself. These molecules are from a new family of RNA molecules . A single dose of these molecules suppress the ability of the virus to reproduce itself for more than a month. Further we have found ways of extending this supressive ability to greater than one year. These studies will tell us how these molecules work and how they might be effectively administered.
SiRNA Induced TGS Of Retroviruses: Elucidation Of Underlying Mechanisms And Their Application In Animal Models
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$371,502.00
Summary
AIMS To elucidate changes in DNA that accompany suppression of HIV growth caused by certain unusual RNA molecules that turn off the ability of HIV to reproduce and make the virus dormant within the infected cell. While we have discovered RNA molecules that can do this to HIV in the test tube, we wish to develop similar molecules that can be used in animal models, so that we can decide whether this technology can be developed for use in humans. We also wish to understand more clearlky the mechani ....AIMS To elucidate changes in DNA that accompany suppression of HIV growth caused by certain unusual RNA molecules that turn off the ability of HIV to reproduce and make the virus dormant within the infected cell. While we have discovered RNA molecules that can do this to HIV in the test tube, we wish to develop similar molecules that can be used in animal models, so that we can decide whether this technology can be developed for use in humans. We also wish to understand more clearlky the mechanisms underlying this effect. BACKGROUND These RNA molecules can suppress a range of pathogenic human viruses including HIV-1 in the test tube. Our novel approach appears to induce changes that are long lasting and are less susceptible to mutations by the virus that allow it to become resistant to other therapeutic strategies. RESEARCH PLAN Initially more work will be done in tissue culture to determine the optimal design of these molecules and the best way to administer them. The most promising of these designs will be tested in small groups of infected animals as a preliminary demonstration of efficacy. In parallel experiments will be performed to elucidate the mechanisms undelying the suppressive effects of these molecules. OUTCOMES AND SIGNIFICANCE This work will lead to a significant increase in our understanding of the way replication of HIV is regulated and will develop a promising new therapeutic strategy for this virus that may be applicable to other conditions.Read moreRead less
Role Of Regulatory Genes In The Control Of Toxin Production In Clostridium Perfringens
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$495,710.00
Summary
This project investigates how the bacteria responsible for gas gangrene, an often fatal wound infection, control or regulate the expression of genes that encode toxins and other virulence factors. The overall objective is to develop a detailed understanding of the function and biological role of each element in these regulatory systems, thereby making a major contribution to our knowledge of how bacteria control the production of toxic products that are essential for the disease process.