Coordinated cleavages in the flavivirus structural polyprotein: role in virus assembly and host-pathogen interaction [ 2003 - 2005 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: A/Pr Mario Lobigs (Principal investigator) ,  Dr Eva Lee

Brief description Flaviviruses are important human pathogens responsible for epidemics of hemorrhagic fever or encephalitis, world-wide. This project aims to investigate unique aspects in the biology of the flaviviruses with wider cell biological and immunological implications. First, we propose to test a mechanism important for the efficient assembly of virus particles. An understanding of this stage of the virus life-cycle will benefit research applying recombinant DNA technology in order to produce replication-incompetent viruses for use in vaccination and gene delivery. Second, we have recently discovered a mechanism for immune-modulation, so far unique to the flaviviruses, which interferes with the immune response important in the destruction of virus-infected cells. This project aims to identify the viral gene products responsible for this phenomenon.

Funding Amount $AUD 285,000.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant