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PSGN in New Zealand Children

Year:
2022
Duration:
67 months
Approved budget:
$259,500.00
Researchers:
Dr Amanda Taylor
,
Dr Rachel Webb
,
Associate Professor Nicole Moreland
,
Dr William Wong
Health issue:
Infectious disease
Proposal type:
Clinical Research Training Fellowship
Lay summary
Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (PSGN), like Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF), is a complication of Group A streptococcal (GAS) infection in childhood. Following a GAS skin or throat infection, an immune reaction develops in the kidneys, which leads to leaking of blood and protein into the urine, high blood pressure and swelling of the body. PSGN rates in Māori and Pacific children are unacceptably high, however, unlike ARF, there has been little recent research into PSGN. This PhD proposal aims to support the analysis of data collected through two ongoing studies for which I am the coordinating investigator. My thesis will consist of five chapters addressing components of each study and contributes to global efforts towards improving the understanding of GAS-related diseases, as well as PSGN diagnostic test, treatment and vaccine development. Understanding the pathogenesis of PSGN is crucial to help reverse its inequitable impact on New Zealand Māori and Pacific children.