Mechanisms Underlying the Biochemical Activity of Scabrosin Esters and other Epipolythiodioxopiperazine Toxins. [ 2001 - 2003 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Dr Paul Waring (Principal investigator)

Brief description Fungi produce a variety of chemicals which are toxic to animals. The fungi have probably developed the ability to synthesize and secrete these toxins as part of a chemical defence mechanism and-or in order to limit other microbial life forms because of nutrient competition. Some of these toxins will selectively kill microbes such as bacteria and other fungi as well as simpler life forms such as viruses, which can cause pathological changes to human beings. Fungal toxins may also be useful for control of proliferative diseases such as cancer. Because fungi have had many millions of years to select for the most efficient toxins, they have been a valuable source of potent toxins for study. Some of these toxins are now in use clinically to treat human diseases ie penicillin and cyclosporin A. A fundamental understanding of fungal toxins is important to ensure the availability of new drugs to combat resistant strains of bacteria and to provide clues for the synthesis of new drugs to treat cancer which can also develop resistance to currently used drugs.

Funding Amount $AUD 256,527.54

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant