Influenza

We are studying the entry mechanism of influenza virus into its host in order to gain information on the pathogenic properties of the virus. We are studying the route of endocytosis and the cell signaling pathways activated during virus entry, with the goal of identifying novel antiviral targets, and deciphering any possible co-receptor usage by the virus. From a structural point of view we are interested in the changes that occur in the viral hemagglutinin (HA) molecule that might account for different pathogenic properties as viruses emerge into new species (e.g avian-equine or avian human) and well as how the virus adapts to its new host.

Endocytosis of influenza virus We are studying the route of endocytosis and the cell signaling pathways activated during virus entry, with the goal of identifying novel antiviral targets, and deciphering any possible co-receptor usage by the virus. We use electron microscopy, fluorescence microscopy and biochemical assays to monitor virus endocytosis. A particular focus in on the role of the actin cytoskelton during virus entry into polarized epithelial cells.

Influenza virus fusion Influenza virus fusion is well characterized to occur in the low pH environment of the endosomes. In combination with our cell biological assays of endocytosis, we are examining influenza virus fusion – using spectrofluorometric analyses of membrane fusion. From a structural point of view we are also interested in the changes that occur in the viral hemagglutinin (HA) molecule that might account for different pathogenic properties as viruses emerge into new species (e.g avian-equine or avian-human) and well as how the virus adapts to its new host.

Coronavirus

Rhabdovirus