Tucci - Bacteriophage as alternatives to antibiotics, pharmacogenomics and pharmacy practice
Bacteriophage are viruses that specifically attack bacteria. They are harmless to humans and the environment. Given the growing problem of resistance to antibiotics amongst bacteria, we are interested in the use of bacteriophage as alternatives to antibiotics.
Another area of research we are interested in is that of pharmacogenetics, or how we can "personalise" medicines depending on a patient's genetic profile.
Finally, we are also investigating how people manage their medications in the treatment of chronic diseases.
Research areas
The use of bacteriophage as alternatives to antibiotics
In this project we are trying to isolate bacteriophage that will attack various bacteria that are known to cause disease. After isolation, we aim to formulate these bacteriophage into dosage forms that allow their delivery to the site of infection. An example of this is our work in the formulation of bacteriophage into semi-solid bases such as creams and ointments that can be spread onto the skin to treat infections.
CYP 450 polymorphisms in patients being treated for serious illnesses
It is known that people who carry certain genetic markers are less capable of coping with various medicines. These people may experience some profound side effects, which may mean that they stop taking their medicines, with negative outcomes.
In this project we are assessing patients being treated for serious illnesses in hospitals to see if they carry any genetic markers that may impact upon their capacity to cope with their drug therapy. This study may help personalise their drug doses, so that they are less likely to suffer serious side effects, and get more benefit from their medication.
How do medicines “fit” into the lifestyle of people suffering chronic diseases
In this project we are interested in finding out from patients themselves how they are coping with their medicines for their chronic diseases. Our work includes collaboration and consultation with various Aboriginal Health Services, and the findings of these studies may assist in optimising the delivery of services and medicines to patients.
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