Award
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 4R01AI135025-09
Mechanism, Function, and Exploitation of Influenza A Virus-Activated Cell Death
Recipient
Research Institute of Fox Chase Cancer Center
Award Amount
$1,460,069.00
Ceiling
$1,460,069.00
Awarded
August 28, 2025
Identifier
4R01AI135025-09
The award funds research on the mechanisms by which Influenza A virus triggers cell death, focusing on the role of ZBP1 and RIPK3 kinase pathways, with implications for understanding virus pathogenesis and host defense.
Description
This project aims to understand how Influenza A virus activates cell death and how this drives virus pathogenesis, host defense, and coevolution across species. It builds on discoveries of an IAV-activated cell death pathway involving ZBP1 detection of viral Z-RNAs and activation of RIPK3 kinase, leading to necroptosis and apoptosis. The project will identify endogenous Z-RNA ligands, characterize ZBP1 signaling in alveolar macrophages, and understand nuclear necroptosis in influenza pathogenesis.