Role of replication and translation complexes (RTCs) in the pathogenesis of retroviruses, flaviviruses and coronaviruses

Retroviruses, flaviviruses and coronaviruses are important pathogens capable of causing serious human disease. To replicate and disseminate infection, these viruses hijack host cell machinery, including organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi apparatus, lipid droplets and the nucleus to generate progeny virions. Sensors within the innate immune system detect virus-induced membrane reorganization, identify virus weak spots, and influence disease progression in this complex virus-host interplay. This project focuses on the innate immune response that specifically targets virus replication and translation complexes (RTCs) anchored at the membrane of cell host organelles. RTCs isolated from these sites will be studied using molecular and cell biology, in combination with bioinformatics, structural biology and high resolution imaging to design novel antiviral interventions.