Grant: CIHR Fellowship

In response to viral infection, the innate immune system mounts complex changes in gene expression. We still do not fully understand the molecular mechanisms controlling a successful immune response to viral infection. While research has been focused on understanding the proteins critical to these pathways, recent studies have revealed important roles for biologic molecules called 'non-coding RNAs' in human disease. I aim to delineate the role of these non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in the immune system's recognition of viral DNA. By comparing the levels of ncRNAs in uninfected and DNA virus infected macrophages, I will identify potential ncRNAs with critical roles in the immune response to DNA virus infection. Using cutting-edge genomics technologies, I will determine the mechanism by which these ncRNAs regulate the mammalian anti-viral response and, more generally, surveillance of aberrant DNA accumulation, which is also critical to our immune system's recognition of mitochondrial stress and cancer. Overall, the proposed work will increase our understanding of the ncRNA components of the mammalian immune system which restrict viral dissemination. These newly identified molecular determinants of innate immunity will facilitate the development of novel vaccine adjuvants, antivirals, and anti-inflammatory therapies.