The neuronal synapse is very tightly regulated by proteins that control both the timing and the amount of neurotransmitter release and neuronal stimulation. Defects in this synaptic signal are linked to diseases including epilepsy, autism and dementia. In this study we will determine the molecular details of how proteins called SNAREs control neurotransmission in the human brain.
Glycan Specificity And Dependence In Rotavirus Host Cell Invasion
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$636,602.00
Summary
Rotavirus is a global pathogen that causes acute gastroenteritis resulting in dehydration and high levels of infant mortality. Annually, infections cause 138 million cases of infantile gastroenteritis and an estimated average of 600,000 deaths. Within Australia ~10,000 children under 5 yrs old are admitted to hospital annually with severe rotavirus-induced diarrhoea. This project will investigate the role of carbohydrates in rotavirus infection to help design new vaccines and inhibitors.