The Airway Infections, Inflammation and Cystic Fibrosis Research Group (AIICF)

The Airway Infections, Inflammation and Cystic Fibrosis Research Group focuses on improving the understanding, early detection, and management of paediatric chronic lung diseases. Our research is centred on the assessment and progression of early airway disease, with the aim of identifying pathways for timely intervention and improved long-term outcomes.

We have particular expertise in cystic fibrosis, acute bronchiolitis, and ataxia telangiectasia, conditions in which airway infections and inflammatory processes play a critical role in disease development and progression. Through clinical and translational research, we investigate how these conditions evolve from early life and how they can be more effectively monitored and treated.

Our work integrates advanced diagnostic approaches, longitudinal patient assessment, and evidence-based clinical strategies to inform best practice. By bridging research and clinical care, we aim to optimise disease management, reduce complications, and improve quality of life for affected children and their families.

Finding the Optimal Regimen for Mycobacterium abscessus Treatment (FORMaT)

Finding the Optimal Regimen for Mycobacterium abscessus Treatment (FORMaT) Trial is an international, investigator-led, adaptive, multi-arm, platform clinical trial designed to find the best treatments for a rare but serious lung condition called Mycobacterium abscessus pulmonary disease (MABS-PD).

Mycobacterium abscessus (MABS) are a group of bacteria found in water and soil. These bacteria can cause damage to the lungs and make people unwell. Around the world, there is little scientific evidence on how best to treat MABS-PD. Currently, treatment can involve taking antibiotics for a year or longer, and it is not guaranteed that the bacteria will be gone from the lungs. The side-effects of the current treatment can make people feel very unwell. The current treatments used have also never been tested in clinical trials and are being used based on doctor's experience. Therefore, we don’t know how effective they are. As such, the FORMaT trial was developed to bring together internationally recognized experts and clinical leaders to address this critical medical challenge and aim to transform the treatment for MABS-PD.

Learn more on Finding the Optimal Regimen for Mycobacterium abscessus Treatment research.

Professor Claire Wainwright, Lead Investigator

A/Professor Tonia Douglas, Sub-Investigator

Professor Paul Robinson, Sub-Investigator

Dr Matthew Wong, Sub-Investigator

Dr Ajay Kevat, Sub-Investigator