Influenza virus is a constantly changing virus. Regular mutation and selection, or antigenic drift results in loss of immunity and the requirement of regular reformulation of annual human influenza vaccines. Influenza viruses are also changing through selective pressure and in nature to be resistant against anti-viral drugs. At the same time, influenza virus is changing hosts. Avian influenza viruses have infected a variety of feline species and equine influenza virus appears to be established in canine populations. Most importantly, H5N1 avian influenza appears poised to shift species and could cause the next pandemic. Recent advances in basic and applied research provide an unparalleled opportunity to understand the interplay between the virus, the host, and the immune system, particularly on matters of virus evolution, virus ecology, the generation of immunity, and mechanisms involved in the generation and maintenance of immune memory responses. This meeting will assemble basic and applied scientists from academia, government, and industry to foster effective translation of new findings in basic research into effective vaccines and therapies. It will bring together evolutionary virologists, viral ecologists, viral immunologists, and vaccinologists;groups which do not regularly interact, to discuss influenza virus biology, immunology and vaccines. It will also provide an opportunity for students and junior scientists to meet and interact with leading influenza researchers. The goal of the meeting is to increase understanding of influenza virus and virus evolution, immune responses to the virus, and influenza vaccine design in order to improve anti-influenza drugs and vaccines that are better able to control this changing pathogen.

Public Health Relevance

Influenza virus is a rapidly evolving virus. Current public health measures, including vaccines, which are based upon concepts developed before the variable nature of influenza was understood, are imperfect for responding to this changing virus. This meeting will gather scientists in the fields of evolutionary virology, viral immunology, and vaccinology to exchange ideas and develop improved approaches to protect against seasonal (human), agricultural (avian and swine), and pandemic influenza viruses. Ralph A. Tripp 1 R13 Conference Application University of Georgia

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Type
Conference (R13)
Project #
1R13AI082827-01
Application #
7675146
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZAI1-IPG-M (J1))
Program Officer
Mulach, Barbara L
Project Start
2009-07-25
Project End
2010-06-30
Budget Start
2009-07-25
Budget End
2010-06-30
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2009
Total Cost
$10,000
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Georgia
Department
Microbiology/Immun/Virology
Type
Schools of Veterinary Medicine
DUNS #
004315578
City
Athens
State
GA
Country
United States
Zip Code
30602