Location: Foreign Animal Disease Research
Project Number: 3022-32000-063-041-S
Project Type: Non-Assistance Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Aug 1, 2024
End Date: Jul 31, 2027
Objective:
Study the molecular structure of ASFV membrane interacting proteins (viroporins) which are critical for virus replication. Previous collaborative work between the Cooperator and PIADC laboratories allowed the identification and functional characterization of ASFV membrane associated proteins that are critical for virus replication. Characterization of the functional structure of ASFV viroporins will help in the potential development of biotherapeutics that may help in limiting ASFV infection.
Approach:
To implement the project ASFV genes so far identified as viroporins will be cloned, expressed and purified to be, then, analyzed in their structures by cryogenic electron microscopy. High-resolution images of the viroporins will be obtained and further studied to characterize their structure at the atomic level. This information will help in understanding the intimate mechanism of action of these proteins, particularly during the infectious cycle of the virus. This may allow the study of potential inhibitors of ASFV growth which will be evaluated first in vitro, and, if results are promising, be assessed as biotherapeutics in pigs.
