The role of Staufen protein in the generation of infectious viral particles
Since its discovery, Staufen1 protein has been studied for its involvement in a diverse set of aspects of RNA metabolism. Given its pivotal role in cellular RNA metabolism, several studies have explored the mechanistic impact of Staufen1 in a wide variety of cell functions ranging from cell growth to cell death, as well as in various disease states. In particular, there has been increasing attention on the role of Staufen1 in neuromuscular disorders, neurodegeneration, diabetes, cancer, and viral infection. In the context of infection, human Staufen1 has been shown to interact with many viral proteins and RNAs, contributing to both RNA replication and virus production. This project aims to understand how human Staufen1 protein interacts with viral components, using our unique expertise in the structural and quantitative biology of large macromolecular complexes, track record on Staufen1 structural biochemistry, and access to beyond-state-of-the-art technology in Glasgow and at Research Complex at Harwell. The approaches used will include biochemical analysis, single particle cryo-electron microscopy, super-resolution light microscopy and advanced biophysical methods, providing a unique opportunity for discoveries on the molecular biology of infection and training in a fast-developing field of technology.