Multivalency and geometric organization of binding sites as mechanism for the cellular entry by viruses (B10#)

• Subject Area: Biochemistry
• Term: from 2016 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 32049920

This project is focused on the cellular uptake of glycolipid binding DNA-tumorviruses in mammalian cells, specifically of the Polyomavirus SV40. Single SV40 virions bind in a multivalent fashion to glycolipids in the plasma membrane of host cells. It is known that the binding of SV40 to glycolipids leads to membrane deformation and internalization of vesicles into the cell. This project will investigate the role of binding site geometry and valency using superresolution microscopy and specifically designed multivalent Inhibitors and especially clarify the role of multivalent, geometrically organized binding in intracellular transport.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 765: Multivalency as Chemical Organisation and Action Principle: New Architectures, Functions and Applications
• Applicant Institution: Freie Universität Berlin
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Helge Ewers