From molecules to tissues: Host-cell responses to infection

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Viruses are dependent on host resources to support their replication, from entry into cells to virus replication and assembly. Due to their limited coding capacity, viruses have evolved mechanisms to hijack, disarm and repurpose these host resources to promote their replication. These interactions span multiple levels, including different molecules (DNA, RNA and protein) and cellular pathways. The aim of this programme is to apply an unbiased evidence-based approach to identify common networks of host factors and host responses to infection that are conserved between divergent pathogens, unifying our understanding of how cells and tissues respond to virus infection. We will partner with the Rosalind Franklin Institute (RFI, Harwell Campus) and MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC PPU, University of Dundee) to identify how these networks are formed, the repertoire of cellular and viral proteins involved, and their functional contribution to viral fitness in both cells and tissues that support infection and coinfection. Knowledge gained from this programme will reveal the approaches employed by viruses to subvert host cells and whether these approaches are specific or broadly utilised across viruses. Discoveries from this programme will benefit the international virology community through the identification of new host-based therapeutic targets for intervention, reinforcing the reputation of the CVR as an international leading centre for virus research.