An image-centered approach to determine the role of influenza virus morphology on infection spread

Keywords: Influenza virus/ virus morphology/ virus structure/ virus spread

Abstract: Influenza A viruses (IAVs) can cause devastating disease. While IAVs are pleomorphic (they can form either spherical or filamentous particles), the role of virus morphology in determining disease severity remains unknown. We will combine state-of-the-art imaging technologies (including light, confocal and electron microscopy) with powerful model organ culture systems and reverse genetics technology to image the spread of morphologically distinct isogenic IAVs at ultra-high resolution. Our hypothesis is that filamentous particles spread more efficiently throughout the respiratory tract. This project aligns with the MRC Priority area A (Digital Technologies and Informatics for Health) as large amounts of data that will be generated and processed using quantitative high-throughput imaging platforms. We have the infrastructure, reagents and expertise required to perform and deliver this project. We have already identified a student who is currently finishing an MSc project on this subject at the CVR and is ready to start in October 2017.