Waterfowl are the natural reservoir for a whole range of subtypes of influenza A and act as the source for emerging novel viruses, including recent strains of H5N1 and H9N2.
These emergent viruses have catastrophic potential. They’re capable of causing human pandemics, fatal zoonotic disease or devastating epizootics in poultry. Here in the One Virology group, we’re working to better understand how these viruses change – and how they can be stopped.
Together, we’re studying the cellular mechanisms underlying the resistance or susceptibility of different avian and mammalian species to influenza virus infection. Ultimately, our research will further our understanding of resistance mechanisms and pathogenesis, driving the development of novel treatments and reducing the threat of these powerful viruses.