BUNYA

We implement a comprehensive approach to study interactions between arboviruses (i.e. arthropod-borne viruses) and their host/vectors to identify key (a)biotic determinants of pathogenicity or vector competence. Our favorite case studies are viruses belonging to the Hareavirales order, particularly those of the Phenuiviridae family like Rift Valley Fever virus (RVFV, responsible of a zoonotic disease and listed as a priority pathogen by WHO and WOAH) and Toscana Virus (TOSV, human pathogen). In addition, we combine vector competence assays with an entomo-virological surveillance network monitoring arboviruses circulating in Europe (such as West Nile virus, chikungunya virus, and dengue virus) to assess the risk of arboviral emergence and improve public health policy. Ultimately, our goal is to deepen our understanding of these arboviruses to anticipate, prevent, and mitigate the threats they pose.

The questions address by the team can be divided into four interconnected research axes covering key aspects of the biology of these viruses such as:

• Impact of viral genetic diversity on pathogenesis and transmission
• Interplay between the innate immune response and zoonotic Bunyavirales
• Vector competences and behaviors
• Development of innovative antivirals and vector control strategies

Skills and expertises

• Virology (BSL2 and BSL3, Microorganisms and Toxins (MOT) regulation, …)
• Molecular and cellular biology (confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, cell line development, …)
• Biochemistry (protein expression and purification, …)
• Molecular virology (reverse genetics systems, …)
• Entomology (vector competence, forced salivation, field sampling, citizen science, …)