Boost for hendra virus research

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Tags: philanthropy, summer-2011, veterinary science

A researcher at work at the AIBN. Donations to the Alister Rodgers Memorial Fund have helped produce batches of Hendra virus antibody

University of Queensland researchers have been able to produce batches of a potential therapeutic for Hendra virus thanks in part to donations made to the Alister Rodgers Memorial Fund.

UQ’s Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN) received $40,000 earlier this year to produce batches of monoclonal antibody to help determine its efficacy.

Alister Rodgers died of Hendra virus in 2009 after his work as a vet in Rockhampton brought him in contact with an infected horse. He was the first person to receive the antibody treatment in a desperate bid to save his life.

The fund was established through the School of Veterinary Science by Dr Rodgers’ family to honour his life and raise money for research into the virus.

AIBN Director Professor Peter Gray said the financial support would greatly enhance understanding of the therapeutic potential and development of the antibody.

“It was an honour for the AIBN to be given the chance to continue research in the field using money from the memorial fund,” Professor Gray said.

“Donations are being used at the front line of disease research.”

By Nhi Pham

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