Dr Dan M Jones

My current research focuses on the binding, entry and fusion mechanisms of Influenza A Virus (IAV) into host cells.

Following binding of IAV to the host cell and the subsequent process of internalisation, IAV is sorted into a dynamic population of early endosomes (EEs). IAV-harbouring EEs are directed along the cellular microtubule network toward the perinuclear region, maturing into late endosomes (LEs) during transit. It is here that the IAV and LE membranes fuse, releasing the IAV genetic material into the cell to establish a productive infection. However, a clearly defined network of cellular factors and how they contribute to IAV-EE sorting, transport and fusion has yet to be defined.

I aim to utilise cutting edge fluorescence microscopy-based techniques, including single virus tracking (SVT) and multiplexed lifetime imaging, to understand the spatial and temporal regulation of cellular factors important for IAV infection. Pinpointing such factors may aid the development of more effective vaccines and treatments for IAV. It is expected that these studies will soon be broadened to encompass other enveloped viruses, including Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV).