Oxford University Clinical Research Unit Vietnam PhD Programme 2014-15
Project 6
Title:
Seroepidemiology of enteroviruses associated with hand, foot, and mouth disease
Project overview:
Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common infectious disease that is mostly caused by enteroviruses belonging to the species Human enterovirus A (including Coxsackie virus A 2-8, 10, 12, 14, 16 and enterovirus 71, 76 and 89-92). HFMD is typically a benign self-limited illness among young children and infants. Outbreaks occur worldwide and are often associated with day-care centres, kindergartens, and elementary schools. Human enterovirus 71 (EV71) has emerged as a frequent cause of HFMD in Southeast Asia, associated with neurologic and cardiopulmonary complications. Children under 5 are at risk for symptomatic and/or severe disease.
Most outbreaks reported in the Asia-Pacific region during the last decade were caused by previously undefined EV71 subgenogroups, but there is no evidence of differences in virulence. Data suggest cross-antigenicity among the different subgenotypes, i.e. EV71 constitutes one serotype.
The other HFMD associated enteroviruses are also of interest as the interplay of different cross-reactive antibody spectra induced by previous infections may be of importance for development of symptomatic infection or severe disease on infection with EV71.
The main purpose of this project is to set up reliable and reproducible serologic assays to study the seroepidemiology of different sublineages of EV71 and related HFMD associated viruses and assess whether there is cross-neutralization among the different sublineages and serotypes (which is one of the key questions regarding the epidemiology of HFMD) and to map the interaction between circulating viruses and patient antibody repertoires using virus isolates and patient serum samples obtained through our HFMD/EV71 research program in which we systematically collect samples from children in Ho Chi Minh City covering the entire spectrum of clinical HFMD.
Training opportunities:
The student will develop advanced laboratory skills while developing and validating classical and molecular serological assays. Training in mathematical modelling and cartography, required for analysis, will be provided. Other training opportunities will depend on the development of the project and the interest of the student
Location:
Based in Ho Chi Minh City, and will need to spend time abroad
Supervisors:
Rogier van Doorn, and 2-4 local and international investigators
Skills required:
MSc in natural sciences, knowledge of molecular biology, infection and immunity, diagnostic laboratory techniques.