Characterization and optimization of multivalent ligand interactions with viral glycoptoteins (C06)

• Subject Area: Biophysics ; Metabolism, Biochemistry and Genetics of Microorganisms
• Term: from 2008 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 32049920

We will apply our obtained insights into the optimal structure of multivalent inhibitors of virus binding to design appropriate binders of various spatial geometry for diagnostic and therapeutic approaches targeting different virus species. These approaches will be evaluated quantitatively by a synergistic concept of complementary theoretical and experimental biochemical/bio¬physical methods and direct visualization. For example, the antiviral potential of biocompatible multivalent binders will be investigated on and adapted to a broader panel of circulating human-pathogenic and potentially highly pathogenic avian Influenza A-virus strains. Based on molecular mapping of viral mutations leading to resistance a site specific optimization of multivalent inhibitors will be carried out.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 765: Multivalency as Chemical Organisation and Action Principle: New Architectures, Functions and Applications
• Applicant Institution: Freie Universität Berlin
• Co-Applicant Institution: Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin; Robert Koch-Institut (RKI)
• Project Heads: Privatdozent Dr. Christoph Böttcher; Professor Dr. Andreas Herrmann; Privatdozent Dr. Thorsten Wolff, since 1/2016