COMBINEComparative Signature of Marburg Virus Cell Activation as a Blueprint for the Identification of Antiviral Targets against Newly Emerging Viruses
The EU-funded research project sets out to advance our understanding of how viruses enter cells, using the Marburg virus (MARV) as a model. Focussing on the critical virus-cell entry step the project aims to identify key factors and potential therapeutic targets involved early in viral infections. Beyond unveiling crucial insights into MARV cell infection, the project will break new ground and develop an innovative experimental pipeline for identifying and targeting proteins involved in virus-cell attachment and entry, a critical factor in combating viral outbreaks. COMBINE seeks to create a versatile, adaptable blueprint that facilitates cross-country collaborations to develop novel drugs and vaccines against emerging viruses – a cornerstone of pandemic preparedness.
Marburg Virus
Marburg Virus is a member of the filovirus family, a highly infectious and lethal pathogen with substantial epidemic potential
The virus is named after the city of discovery – Marburg, Germany – which is not where it originated
Marburg virus’ reservoir are fruit bats which are widely distributed across Africa
Transmission between humans via direct contact with contaminated body fluids or by consumption of bush meets
Sporadic outbreaks in Sub-Saharan Africa