Addressing Alphaviruses — Scientists in the laboratory of Dr. Margaret Kielian have identified two proteins in human cells that make cells susceptible to infection by a class of viruses called alphaviruses, which cause infectious arthritis, encephalitis, rashes and fever. Chikungunya virus and other alphaviruses infect millions of people worldwide, but no effective therapies or vaccines are available. Using genome-wide screening, the researchers found two novel host proteins that must be present in order for alphaviruses to enter cells. Targeting one or both of these proteins could be a strategy for treating or preventing infection by these viruses. The team’s findings appear in the December 19, 2013 issue of PLoS Pathogens. Dr. Kielian is professor of cell biology and Samuel H. Golding Chair in Microbiology.
Posted on: Friday, January 10, 2014