Professor Rik Thompson has received a $740,435 NHMRC 2025 e-ASIA Joint Research Program grant to develop a breakthrough antiviral technology that could transform global health.
ProfessorThompson (pictured above), Professor of Breast Cancer Research and Domain Leader,Centre for Genomics and Personalised HealthandSchool of Biomedical Sciences, will lead the project, "Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Effects and Immune Regulation Mechanisms of Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) Based on Immunotheranostics" in Australia.
The project is in collaboration with Fujian Engineering Research Center of Molecular Theranostic Technology, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, China (Professor Gang Liu) and Department of Diagnostic Radiology and College of Design, National University of Singapore (Professor Xiaoyuan Chen).
CAP is a drug-free technology that kills viruses and boosts the body's natural defences. It is already used in wound healing, sterilisation, cancer therapy and dental treatments because it can kill bacteria and promote tissue regeneration without harming healthy cells.
Professor Thompson said CAP had the potential to deliver a rapid, universal defence against emerging respiratory threats.
"Our research aims to fine-tune CAP and uncover how it strengthens immunity, paving the way for a fast, broad antiviral solution," he said.
"Respiratory viruses like influenza and COVID-19 keep evolving, making treatments less effective.
"Unlike vaccines, CAP works regardless of new mutations that may occur. Our research will fine-tune CAP and uncover how it strengthens immunity, paving the way for a fast, broad antiviral solution to improve global health.
"This technology could provide a critical layer of protection against respiratory viruses.
"By understanding the mechanisms behind CAP's antiviral and immune-boosting effects, we hope to accelerate its clinical application and deliver a safe, effective tool for global health."
The project will use imaging tools to monitor immune responses in real time and study how CAP interacts with the body's natural defences.
The team will refine CAP preparation and resolve issues such as equipment consistency and solution stability to speed up clinical use.
The research team in Australia includes participants from the Queensland Institute of Medical Research, the University of Queensland, and the University of Technology Sydney.
