Elucidating the role of host cell ncRNAs in viral replication

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are critical regulators of gene expression and their importance is emphasised as ncRNAs are frequently altered in many human diseases. Viruses have evolved ways to manipulate host ncRNAs to enhance virus gene expression and modulate the host response to infection. However, how and why ncRNA levels are altered during infection is yet to be fully elucidated.

This project will investigate a novel mechanism utilised by viruses to dysregulate a recently identified group of ncRNAs, termed tRFs. The project will elucidate how and why this emerging ncRNA species are altered by the virus and also determine if reversing this dysregulation can be used as a novel antiviral strategy.

The project is highly novel utilising a multidisciplinary approach and cutting-edge methodology including CLASH, RNA-IPs, imaging, cell biology and 3D tumour models.

In summary, this project will identify novel ways viruses manipulate the host cell to enhance their replication and provide a better understanding of how ncRNA species can regulate gene expression and how this impacts on human disease. Moreover, it may provide new strategies for therapeutic interventions of important human pathogens.