Identification of Molecular Factors That Influence Reassortment and the Emergence of Pandemic Influenza Viruses

Abstract

Pandemic influenza viruses acquire new properties via the swapping of gene segments known as reassortment. We will investigate the molecular mechanism that enables specific genes to interact and be co-selected during this process. Our work will provide key insights into the probability of viruses with particular gene constellations emerging in the future, that will benefit pandemic assessment and planning and may inform the development of strategies to limit the impact of pandemic influenza.