Can the structure of asymmetric arboviruses be resolved through mapping their protein interactions?

Science / Life Sciences

The emergence and re-emergence of arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) pose a significant threat to public health, requiring multidisciplinary approaches to understand and control these pathogens. Structural virology provides critical insights into viral vulnerabilities, facilitating the development of antiviral therapies, vaccines, and diagnostic tools. While significant progress has been made in elucidating the structure of symmetric viruses, pleomorphic viruses such as Influenza, Ebola, Sabiá, and Oropouche (OROV), which exhibit diverse particle sizes and shapes, remain poorly understood. This project proposes a novel approach to unravel the architecture of these complex viruses. By mapping intra- and inter-protein interactions, we aim to generate a comprehensive interaction network. Using this network, we will apply artificial intelligence algorithms to reconstruct the three-dimensional structure of the intact virus particle.

Amount invested

Grant Serrapilheira: R$ 350.000,00 (R$ 200.000,00 + R$ 150.000,00 optional bonuses aimed at the integration and training of individuals from underrepresented groups in science)

Open Calls

Science Call 7