Translational Virus Research

This NSW Health-funded PhD scholarship focuses on developing targeted nanoparticles as a new way to treat diseases caused by rhinoviruses (the viruses behind many common colds). We have recently created innovative polymer-based nanoparticles that can carry therapeutic molecules, move through the protective mucus in the airways, and deliver treatment directly to the airway cells affected by the virus. These nanoparticles are designed to carry small RNA molecules (called siRNA) that can silence viral genes by engaging the cell’s natural gene-silencing machinery, known as the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). This process stops the virus from multiplying and helps to prevent illness. As part of an MRFF-funded collaboration with UNSW, we are also working on a related project using the same technology to target SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

National and International Industry collaborations to develop novel anti-viral therapies

- This project is in collaboration with an Australian nutraceutical company - 

The epithelial cells that line the respiratory tract are the body's first line of defense and the primary site of virus infection. Therefore, these cells are critical for protection against disease. Epithelial cells in mucosal tissues, such as the airways, produce natural anti-viral proteins like lactoferrin (Lf), which provide broad-spectrum protection against many pathogens. Due to its wide-ranging anti-viral effects, Lf is a strong candidate for therapeutic use in respiratory virus infections.

The overarching aim is to use established pre-clinical models to generate evidence supporting a new commercial strategy for an existing Lf product and create a first-in-class broad-spectrum anti-viral nasal spray. We have defined two target product profiles (TPPs): one focused on using the spray as a preventive treatment to reduce the severity of common colds, and the other focused on treating upper respiratory infections to prevent them from progressing to more serious lower respiratory diseases. The research will also include pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) studies to better understand how Lf behaves when delivered specifically to the upper respiratory tract via nasal spray.

- This project is in collaboration with a Japanese biotech company - 

We are testing a new ASO drug called TAKC-02, which aims to lower the levels of a protein called MEX-3B. This protein is involved in causing inflammation and asthma symptoms.

The study has two main parts. First, we will test TAKC-02 on cells from two asthma patients to find the best dose. We will see if the drug can reduce inflammation without making the virus grow more or damaging the cells. In the second part, we will use the best dose from the first part to treat cells from eight more asthma patients. We will measure how well the drug works by looking at the levels of inflammation and the health of the cells. The aim is to see if TAKC-02 can help manage asthma symptoms during a cold by reducing inflammation without harmful side effects.

- This project is in collaboration with a biotech company in the UK -

Protein N-myristoylation is a process that modifies many eukaryotic and viral proteins, helping them function properly. This modification is carried out by a common enzyme called N-myristoyltransferase (NMT). One important role of N-myristoylation is to direct proteins to specific areas in the cell, such as membranes inside the cell or on its surface. Blocking this process with NMT inhibitors has been shown to stop viruses from replicating. These inhibitors either prevent the virus from modifying its proteins or interfere with its ability to use the host cell’s membranes for replication. The goal of this project is to test whether an NMT inhibitor can block rhinovirus replication and reduce virus-induced inflammation in vivo.