Host-pathogen interactions in Burkholderia infection [ 2008 - 2010 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: A/Pr Nigel Morrison (Principal investigator) ,  Dr Ian Peak ,  E/Pr Ifor Beacham

Brief description Melioidosis is a fatal tropical disease caused by a bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. We found that when the bacterium infects macrophage-like cells in culture (that normally kills bacteria), the cells turn into a cell like an osteoclast, a cell that normally degrades bone. Since an osteoclast is unable to kill bacteria, we speculate that the bacterium subverts the macrophage differentiation pathway and directs the cells into a state where it is unable to attack the invading bacteria.

Funding Amount $AUD 490,322.74

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant