Genotypes And Phenotypes Of Human Primary Non-congenital Antibody Deficiency
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$544,692.00
Summary
Antibodies represent a key component of the immune system, and a particularly important in defence against bacterial and viral infections. In some individuals, antibody production fails, rendering them more susceptible to infection. In most cases, the mechanism of antibody failure is unknown. This project seeks to determine the genetic and cellular mechanisms of antibody failure. This could improve diagnosis for immune deficiency, and improve our overall understanding of the immune system.
Secretion is an essential step in memory and learning, control of metabolism and reproduction and the functioning of most organs. Secretory dysfunction also underlies many diseases including type 2 diabetes. We plan experiments to test for a new model of control of insulin secretion.
Role For Zinc And ZIP2 In The Action Of Nitric Oxide And In Vascular Protection Against Cigarette Smoke And Cardiovascular Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$685,941.00
Summary
The NO/cGMP signalling pathway, which is central to cardiovascular physiology and protection against disease, is only fully effective when there are adequate levels of zinc in the vascular endothelium. This is especially important where zinc stores are depleted (elderly, smokers, diabetics and kidney disease). There is an urgent clinical need to implement strategies to monitor vascular Zn status. This application will explore the underlying science and translate these to the clinic.
Defining The Role Of Zinc At The Host-pneumococcal Interface
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$870,925.00
Summary
Streptococcus pneumoniae is the world’s foremost bacterial pathogen. In Australia, bacterial infections are responsible for more than 9000 deaths every year, and the economic burden associated with treating diseases arising from pneumococcal infections is more than $1 billion annually. This proposal aims to define the role of the transition metal zinc in innate immune resistance to bacterial infection. This knowledge will reveal new targets for next generation antimicrobial therapeutics.