The ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine

Junín virus, the microbial agent of Argentine hemorrhagic fever, causes significant morbidity and mortality in South America. The virus is present in rodent species in some regions of Argentina and is spread through aerosolization. Many recent studies have extended our knowledge about the pathogenesis of Junín virus, but there is limited knowledge about mechanisms of immunity and medical countermeasures. I will pursue studies to isolate and characterize broad and potently neutralizing antibodies for Junín and related viruses. I will use blood samples from humans with prior infection with Junín virus or vaccination with Junín virus vaccine. These studies will elucidate fundamental mechanisms of immunity for Junín virus and may lead to the identification of promising human monoclonal antibodies for prevention or treatment of Junín virus infection. The project is well-suited to integrate with the APMM program as I am studying molecular mechanisms of a major infectious disease for which limited solutions are available.