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Immune system-derived oxidants in the treatment and diagnosis of respiratory diseases

Year:
2022
Duration:
48 months
Approved budget:
$599,995.00
Researchers:
Dr Nina Dickerhof
,
Professor Anthony Kettle
,
Dr Nicholas Magon
Health issue:
Respiratory/asthma
Proposal type:
Sir Charles Hercus Fellowship
Lay summary
Respiratory illnesses, caused by chronic inflammation or infections, are among the top three causes of death worldwide. Additionally, antibiotic resistance poses an alarming threat to global health as infections become increasingly difficult to treat. Our immune system produces oxidants to fight invading pathogens. In this project, we aim to identify the mechanisms by which bacteria defend themselves against oxidants to reveal novel antimicrobial targets. Immune-derived oxidants, if inappropriately produced, also cause chronic inflammation by damaging host tissue. We intend to find markers of oxidative tissue damage that can be measured in urine to better diagnose the presence of inflammation in the lung. We also have compelling evidence that the recurrent respiratory infections in patients with cystic fibrosis may be caused by impaired oxidant production in their neutrophils – the most abundant immune cells. We will investigate whether oxidant production in their neutrophils can be boosted to restore killing of bacteria.