Highly pathogenic filoviruses, including Ebola virus (EBOV) cause severe disease in humans characterized by systemic dissemination, liver failure, and virus persistence. We will use mice with human immune systems to characterize the pathogenesis of poorly characterized filoviruses such as Tai Forest virus (TAFV) and Reston virus (RESTV). Using EBOV as reference, we will assess the capacity of TAFV and RESTV to disseminate, colonize the liver and persist. Our proposal will provide a framework to characterize the pathogenesis of newly discovered filoviruses and other unknown viruses with potential to cause disease in humans.
DFG Programme
Collaborative Research Centres
