Novel Nucleic Acid Sensing NLRs and Innate Immunity to Viruses

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The concept of Pathogen-Associated Molecular Pattern (PAMPs) engaging Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRR) to initiate innate immunity has revolutionized immunology. We first reported the 22- member NLR (Nucleotide-binding and Leucine Rich repeat or NOD-like receptors) family. Most NLRs activate innate immunity, prime examples being NODI and N0D2 which recognize bacterial peptidoglycan and inflammasome NLRs that trigger caspase-1 activation leading to IL-1B and ILI8 maturation. Recently, we and several other groups documented a new NLR subfamily that reduces inflammatory and immune activation which is comprised of NLRP4, NLRP6, NLRP12, NLRC3, NLRC5 and NLRXI. These proteins largely operate by interacting with adaptors and signaling pathways in the innate immune system. In this proposal we will examine the intersection of some of these novel NLRs in regulating host response to a number of NIAID Priority RNA and DNA viruses. We will apply several cutting edge proteomic approaches to assess specific proteomes that are dependent on NLRs during infection with NIAID Priority viral pathogens. These directions are in precise concordance with the RFA which states that "emphasis of research proposed in response to this FOA should be in defining novel cellular and molecular immune mechanisms involved in immunity to virus infection". Additionally, the mechanisms by which these NLRs regulate host response are broadly applicable to many viruses of relevance on the Priority Pathogens' list. It supports the overall goal of the Program by (a) investigating the role of novel PRRs as sensors or receptors of viral nucleic acid which affect subsequent innate immune responses to NIAID high priority viral pathogens in human; (b) applying cutting edge quantitative proteomic approaches for the identification of novel paradigm-shifting pathways of pathogen sensing; (c) assessing cross-talk between multiple PRRs; (d) using unique biochemical capabilities that are technically challenging to study the ligand-binding functions of PRRs, and (e) performing experiments with primary human materials. This project will involve extensive collaboration with Projects 2 and 3, as well as Cores A-C.