Determinants of heterospecific phase separation in negative-strand RNA viruses (B04)

• Subject Area: Virology ; Biological and Biomimetic Chemistry ; Organic Molecular Chemistry - Synthesis and Characterisation
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 512741711

The goal is to create broad-spectrum antivirals against negative-strand RNA viruses like Ebola and Lassa, and a potential disease X, by inhibiting viral condensate formation crucial for replication. Using a novel live-cell Click-approach for viral RNA labeling, we will identify viral and cellular proteins in functional viral condensates. Employing AI and wet lab methods, we will decode the sequence "grammar" driving this recruitment. This will guide the development of inhibitors targeting viral condensate formation, as a new class of antivirals.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1648: Emerging Viruses: Pathogenesis, Structure, Immunity
• Applicant Institution: Universität Hamburg
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Jens Bernhard Bosse; Professor Dr. Chris Meier