Mechanism of cell-to-cell transmission of flaviviruses

In this study we will determine how flaviviruses, in particular Dengue and Zika, which share significant similarities are transmitted between cells and spread into specific tissues. Dengue and Zika viruses have huge health implications - Dengue alone infects >50 million people worldwide annually; Zika is a closely related emerging virus that causes severe neurological damage in new-borns and adults. How they spread into specific organs in infected individuals is not understood. Our proposal aims to address this gap in knowledge. We will determine exactly how virus progeny particles are released from infected cells and transported into neighbouring recipient cells. We will identify the host genes that are involved in this process. We will also address which viral protein determines virus transmissibility. The mechanism of transmission of virus particles dictates spread, tissue tropism and pathogenesis. We will therefore add critical information on how to target this process and block disease progression.