Viral capsid protein interactome in cells

The frequency and magnitude of ARthropod-Borne (arbo)viruses’ outbreaks have been increasing globally, putting billions of people at risk of infection. The most medically and economically relevant arboviruses are spread by various mosquito species. However, vaccines are available only against a small number of mosquito-transmitted viruses, and we lack effective antivirals. In this project, we will seek means to hamper arthritogenic alphaviruses such as chikungunya, Ross River, and Mayaro viruses. We will use cutting-edge proteomics and systems biology approaches to identify human host and mosquito vector cell proteins that bind to multifunctional capsid proteins of different alphaviruses and characterize these interplays in great detail. The resulting knowledge will significantly enhance the development of universal inhibitors that target proviral cellular interactions and the design of novel live vaccine candidates.