Grant: Operating Grant - Innovative Ebola Research Grants

The past year has marked the most devastating Ebola outbreak the world has ever witnessed with over 26,969 cases and over 11,135 deaths. There are several aspects, both epidemiological and viral that have contributed to the spread of Ebola throughout West Africa. To date a systematic study identifying the virulence and transmission capability of the West African Ebola outbreak strain (Makona) has yet to be completed. We hypothesize that the Makona variant has gained an enhanced genetic background allowing for increased virulence and transmission, which has lead to the scale of the current outbreak. By making use of a reverse genetics system we intend to characterize the mechanisms of enhanced replication in vitro. Additionally, using two well-established animal models (guinea pigs and non-human primates), we will evaluate the risks associated with various exposure routes, exposure time, and the potential for Ebola transmission by direct and indirect (droplet/fomite) exposure. Transmission of Ebola has occurred at epidemic proportions in front line health care workers. Studies evaluating the risks posed to health care workers will allow us to recommend clear guidelines in the event of future outbreaks. Identifying improved methods of isolation, and infection control to limit viral spread, based on the finding from this study, will be critical in containing the current epidemic and invaluable to halting transmission during future outbreaks.