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Koala retrovirus epidemic: genetic diversity, genome invasion and disease (2018–2022)

Abstract:
Koala Retrovirus (KoRV) has spread through the majority of wild and captive koala populations. Uniquely, this infectious agent is transmitted both between infected individuals and onto offspring due to its integration into germline DNA. This project aims to firstly, identify mechanisms that govern the rate of southerly dissemination for the ongoing KoRV epidemic and secondly, identify virulence factors that endow KoRV subtypes with distinct modes of transmission that contribute to disease outcome. Understanding the mechanisms behind this advancing epidemic will have important implications for conservation efforts.
Grant type:
ARC Discovery Projects
Researchers:

  • Professor Paul Young

    Professor, Research Development
    Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
    Affiliate Professor
    Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology

  • Professor Keith Chappell

    Professorial Research Fellow
    School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
    Faculty of Science
    Professor
    Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology
    Affiliate Academic
    Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology

  • Associate Professor Steve Johnston

    Associate Professor
    School of the Environment
    Faculty of Science
Funded by:
Australian Research Council