Enterovirus 71 (EV71), a member of the Picornaviridae family, poses a significant threat as a causative agent of hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD), particularly affecting young children. The infection can escalate into severe neurological complications, with mortality rates reaching up to 19%1. Amidst escalating outbreaks in China and the Asia-Pacific, urgent research efforts are imperative to combat this pathogen. While existing vaccines target specific serotypes, their efficacy lacks cross-protection evidence, prompting exploration into targeted antiviral therapies1,2. Aiming at distinct stages of the viral life cycle remains a promising albeit challenging strategy, owing to gaps in understanding EV71's replication cycle.
The primary aim of this project is to delve into the lesser-explored dimensions of the enterovirus RNA replication, particularly focusing on its interplay with genome packaging, and viral assembly. A crucial step towards understanding the molecular intricacies of the replication process involves the establishment of a fluorescent reporter system for viral replication sites. These reporters will play a pivotal role in guiding subsequent stages of research, including correlative light and electron microscopy, facilitating precise lamella preparation, and aiding in the collection of data for cryo-electron tomography.
This project is supported by the Brno Ph.D. Talent grant.