MOLECULAR ANALYSIS OF DNA VIRUS DISASSEMBLY AND NUCLEAR TRANSPORT DURING VIRAL ENTRY

• Applicant: Dr. Klaus Michael Breiner
• Subject Area: Basic Research in Biology and Medicine
• Term: from 1999 to 2002
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5210290

The over-all goal is to investigate how viruses that replicate in the nucleus of mammalian cells are targeted to nucleus and enter the nucleoplasm. The virus systems to be analyzed are herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and simian virus 40 (SV40). Throughout the entry process these viruses are responding to specific cues that trigger a predetermined disassembly and transport program. They make use of cellular targeting and transport systems which allow them to deliver their genome into the nucleus where replication takes place. To analyze their disassembly, their interaction with nuclear pores, and their nuclear import, we will use cell biological, biochemical and molecular techniques. We will, moreover, take advantage of the rapidly expanding panel of tools and concepts available in the fields of nuclear transport, viral genetics and viral structural biology. By adressing these still largely neglected processes in the viral replication cycle, we expect to unravel new principles and mechanisms relevant for the general understanding of virus-cell interaction, cell tropism, and pathogenesis. Moreover, the information may suggest novel antiviral strategies, and allow more informed application of viruses as vectors for gene transfer.

• DFG Programme: Emmy Noether International Fellowships