Role of cytomegalovirus UL25 protein family members for cell-to-cell spread in persisting infection (C06)

• Subject Area: Virology
• Term: from 2014 to 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 158989968

Dissemination of cytomegaloviruses within the infected host occurs by direct cell-cell contacts. The mouse CMV M25 proteins are involved in cytoskeleton remodelling, leading to a cytopathic effect typical for CMV-infected cells. We discovered that the M25 proteins interact with a cellular multi-protein complex that is believed to regulate cytoskeletal rearrangement. We will investigate the mechanisms underlying the morphological changes of infected cells, and how the pathways involved are modulated by members of the murine and human CMV UL25 protein family. The aim of the project is to understand the processes through which CMV affects the cytoskeleton to facilitate transmission between neighbouring cells and to ensure persistence of infection.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 900: Chronic Infections: Microbial Persistence and its Control
• Applicant Institution: Medizinische Hochschule Hannover
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Martin Messerle