Novel mechanism in the control of infection and disease

General

The long-term objective is to improve effectiveness of control programmes (i.e drug treatment and putative anti-schistosome vaccines), or alternatively, to promote immunoregulatory networks in individuals with severe morbidity.

Specific

To define innate immune responses in patients infected with schistosomes that are associated with down-regulation of acquired immune responses, or conversely the development of pathology.To characterise and manufacture parasite-derived immunoregulatory molecules.To use parasite-derived molecules to manipulate protective immune responses and immunopathology.To aid existing control programmes by using epidemiological and geographic data gathered in the field.