Research Projects

Influenza viruses create ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNPs) during genome replication, which oligomerize along the nascent RNA genome. PKCδ mediated phosphorylation of NP at the homotypic interface regulates its oligomerization and assembly into viral RNPs. RsK1, a downstream effector kinase of the MAPK pathway, controls nuclear-cytoplasmic transport and subcellular localization of viral RNPs. Multiple host kinases are involved in NP phosphorylation at different sites, regulating RNP assembly and subcellular localization. This project aims to establish the kinase-substrate relationship between a specific MAPK family member and influenza virus NP protein using analogue sensitive kinase technology. The molecular mechanism of NP phosphorylation will be characterized using phospho-null and phosphor-mimetic mutations. Identifying and characterizing pro-viral host kinase could help develop novel antiviral drugs in the form of kinase inhibitors.