Generation of Advanced Diagnostics and Countermeasures for Individuals Most Vulnerable to Biothreats

摘要

In the first phase of this proposal, we identified mouse strains differentially resistant and susceptible to infection with three biothreat pathogens, Cowpox, Influenza, and Anthrax. In the second phase, the scope of our project is to identify: 1. Host-Oriented Pathogen Response (HOPR) Signaling Pathways, as the underlying mechanism responsible for host-specific susceptibility; and 2. the specific protein constellations responsible for the resistant or susceptible phenotypes. Pinpointing the specific protein(s) responsible for the host responses will allow us to develop specific drugs to convert susceptible into resistant phenotypes. Out ultimate goal is to use the knowledge and enabling technology gained for advanced diagnosis and countermeasures to biothreats.