Structural analysis of influenza protein-membrane interactions during entry (19)

• Subject Area: Virology
• Term: since 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 240245660

We aim to structurally elucidate the influenza A virus (IAV) entry steps focusing on M1 layer uncoating and viral ribonucleoprotein complexes unbundling using the established cryo-correlative light and electron mi-croscopy workflow. In collaboration with Funaya/Schwab, we will develop correlative light and scanning elec-tron microscopy to quantitatively assess the spread of IAV with either spherical or filamentous morphology. This project will reveal (i) whether IAV with filamentous morphology confers an advantage in spread within a lung airway-mimicking environment and (ii) will deliver insights into M1 structural rearrangements during IAV infection as a potential intervention avenue for inhibition of IAV replication.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1129: Integrative Analysis of Pathogen – Replication and Spread
• Applicant Institution: Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg
• Project Head: Dr. Petr Chlanda