Protein-protein interactions as a potential target voor antiviral therapy: development of inhibitors of the HCV NS5A-PI4KIII- alfa interaction.

In this project we will attempt to develop protein-protein interaction inhibitors (PPIIs) that target the NS5A-PI4KIII-alpha interaction and inhibit HCV replication. As part of a rational design process, peptides and peptidomimetics will be developed. In addition, small molecule inhibitors will be developed by screening chemical libraries. Identified inhibitors will be further characterized in terms of antiviral effect, specificity, mechanism of action and genetic barrier to resistance. This project will rely on a series of collaborations with research groups specialized in structural analysis, molecular modeling and peptide synthesis as well as the drug development platform of the KU Leuven: the CD3.

Keywords:Protein-protein interactions, HCV, PI4KIII-alpha, Antiviral drug development

Disciplines:Other biological sciences

Project type:PhD project