Principal speaker
Mark von Itzstein
On 3 June 1993 a significant article entitled "Rational design of potent sialidase-based inhibitors of influenza virus replication" was published in the high-impact medical science journal, Nature. This publication is considered a milestone paper in the structure-based drug design of a drug to treat influenza infection and the work has been acclaimed worldwide for its contribution to medical science. This anti-influenza drug, Relenza®, was designed, synthesised and biologically evaluated (in vitro) in Mark von Itzstein’s laboratory.
This discovery is considered to be the most significant outcome and flagship in glycotherapeutic drug development in the last century. Relenza® has saved many lives and is one of Australia’s greatest discoveries. As new strains of influenza develop with epidemics and pandemics, Relenza® will be at the forefront for human treatment.
This Public Lecture marks the 20th anniversary of this world-leading discovery. Mark von Itzstein will discuss the threat of infectious diseases, particularly viral diseases, and the effect this discovery has had on the treatment and control of influenza. Finally, he will provide some insight into the ongoing influenza research currently taking place in Institute for Glycomics.
Event categories
Event contact details
- Fiona Crone
- http://www.griffith.edu.au/open-day
- 07 5552 8051