Characterization of host factors as targets for the development of broadly acting therapeutics against emerging viruses (D01)

• Subject Area: Biological and Biomimetic Chemistry ; Organic Molecular Chemistry - Synthesis and Characterisation
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 512741711

This project addresses two parts to design broad-spectrum active molecules. Highly active and selective inhibitors against the host-cell enzyme DHODH will be developed. DHODH is essential for the de-novo-biosynthesis of pyrimidine nucleosides. Moreover, nucleoside analogue triphosphates will be synthesized and evaluated against viral RNA-polymerases. Inhibitory triphosphates will be converted into their pronucleotide forms to enable membrane-permeability. The project aim is to block two essential enzymes as a new combinational intervention approach also applicable to tackle “Disease X” in the future.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1648: Emerging Viruses: Pathogenesis, Structure, Immunity
• Applicant Institution: Universität Hamburg
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Chris Meier