Peanut allergy research receives investment boost

The Alfred's Director of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, Prof Robyn O'Hehir said peanut allergy is a rapidly growing problem in Australia and around the world.

"We estimate that one person in every fifty is affected," Prof O'Hehir said. "When exposed to peanuts, sufferers can experience a range of symptoms from mild itchiness and rash to life-threatening anaphylaxis that may include swelling and blockage of the airways and critically low blood pressure."

This new investment from the Brandon Capital managed Medical Research Commercialisation Fund, together with the support of an additional $1.44million National Health and Medical Research Council grant (announced in November), will ensure Prof O'Hehir and her team at The Alfred and Monash University can continue the research effort that she began close to 15 years ago.

"We have a way to go yet, but a successful vaccine would have a global impact, and could transform the lives of thousands of children and adults," she said.

Victorian Minster for Health, Jill Hennessy said, "It's great to see the private sector investing in medtech. By working together, we will continue to grow Victoria's pre-eminence in medtech, and ultimately that means better health outcomes for Victorians."

The peanut allergy research at The Alfred has received philanthropic support from the Ilhan Food Allergy Foundation, in addition to funding from the Alfred Hospital Trust, and additional grant from the National Health and Medical Research Council.