Characterization of hepatitis D virus cell division-mediated spread and interference through innate and adaptive immune responses (15)

• Subject Area: Virology ; Gastroenterology ; Immunology
• Term: since 2016
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 272983813

In addition to spread via assembled virions, HDV -in contrast to HBV- propagates through mitosis of hepatocytes, a spreading pathway inhibited upon activation of the interferon system. The aim of this project is the detailed understanding of cell division-mediated HDV spread and its role in viral persistence with the goal to define therapeutic targets to improve the therapy of chronic hepatitis D. We will investigate the multiple roles of the large HDV antigen for virus persistence, characterize interferon-stimulated genes that are involved in the regulation of HDV spread, and specify the role of the adaptive immune response in controlling HDV spread in patients.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 179: Determinants and dynamics of elimination versus persistence of hepatitis virus infection
• Applicant Institution: Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg
• Project Heads: Dr. Shirin Nkongolo, since 7/2024; Professor Dr. Stephan Urban