A Novel approach towards Drug Design

Abstract

Abstract Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) is the body’s autoimmune reaction to an untreated Group A Streptococcal (GAS) throat or skin infection. When recurrent and/or severe ARF episodes occur and are left untreated, this can trigger a condition known as Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) - permanent cardiac damage that can result and a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Without a GAS vaccine, painful monthly injections of Benzathine Penicillin G (BPG) are given intramuscularly to prevent GAS infections that may lead to further ARF episodes and trigger RHD if untreated. These injections are known as secondary prophylaxis and are given for at least 10 years, or sometimes a lifetime. In Aotearoa/New Zealand and the Pacific Region, Indigenous Māori and Pacific children and young people remain disproportionately affected by ARF and RHD. Work is currently underway towards a new Penicillin for ARF/RHD prevention which is more appropriate for children and young people who require these injections. Ideally, a longer lasting Penicillin that is less painful to be given is needed. The purpose of this work was to incorporate the Kakala Indigenous Pacific framework within research efforts involving Indigenous Māori and Pacific communities impacted by ARF and RHD. Application of the Indigenous Kakala research framework supported inclusivity, respect, reciprocity and ensured a strong focus on fostering respectful relationships between researchers and vulnerable communities, appropriate to cultural contexts for Pacific Peoples in Aotearoa/New Zealand. This highlights the importance of Indigenous frameworks and their application within Immunology based research work efforts to improve engagement and applicability within cultural settings.