APNET's support for research

Research on several aspects of the biology of enterovirus 71 (EV71) is being undertaken by APNET collaborators. Studies of EV71 molecular epidemiology and molecular diagnostics are being undertaken primarily by Professor Jane Cardosa's group at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Sarawak, Malaysia. APNET is also supporting EV71 epidemiology and surveillance studies with APNET member research groups. We are currently funding a study of EV71 molecular epidemiology in southern Vietnam being undertaken by Dr Phan Van Tu's group at the Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City.

Basic research on EV71 molecular biology and pathogenesis is being undertaken within Dr Peter McMinn's group at University of Sydney, Australia. This research is aimed at understanding the molecular genetics of EV71 virulence. This includes studies of EV71 receptor interactions, EV71 replication and animal model studies of EV71 pathogenesis. The ultimate aim of this research is to develop a live attenuated vaccine against EV71.

There is a high level of collaboration between APNET members. Scientific exchanges are regularly undertaken between the groups. Two scientists from the UNIMAS team recently spent a very successful three week scientific exchange visit to the ICHR in Perth during April 2005. Similar scientific exchanges will continue between APNET members for the foreseeable future.