Project 1:
Functional characterization of hemagglutinin glycoproteins of avian influenza viruses with pandemic potential
Dr. David Steinhauer, with co-investigator Dr. Richard Cummings, will define HA receptor binding properties that may lead to the genesis of pandemic viruses; define membrane fusion mutants that might be involved in adaptation of viruses to new host species: and generate mutant influenza viruses and analyze replication, transmission, and pathogenicity in different host species.

Project 2:
Determination of inter- and intra-species transmissibility of influenza virus
This project is based at the University of Georgia and is led by Dr. Ralph Tripp, with co-investigators Drs. Mark Tompkins and Jeff Hogan. This team will determine intra-species and inter-species transmissibility of H5N1 influenza virus isolates and mutants; determine transmissibility of H5N1 influenza virus isolates in mammals, and the mechanisms of immunity and disease pathogenesis associated with infection; and evaluate disease intervention and prevention strategies against H5N1 influenza virus isolates and mutants.

Project 3:
B cell memory and original antigenic sin
Dr. Joshy Jacob, with co-investigator Dr. Ioanna Skountzou, will determine the extent to which original antigenic sin modulates B cell memory responses to strains and subtypes of influenza virus; determine the extent to which original antigenic sin interferes with immune responses to the potentially pandemic influenza virus H5 subtype; and determine the extent to which accessory cells play a role in original antigenic sin responses to influenza virus.

Project 4:
Human immune responses to influenza virus
Dr. Rafi Ahmed, with co-investigators Drs. John Altman and Bali Pulendran, will evaluate the nature of the innate immune response to CAIV-T and TIV in vitro and in vivo; perform a comprehensive and quantitative analysis of the memory B cell response to influenza vaccination and infection; and characterize the quantity and specificity of the CD4 and CD8 T cell responses to influenza virus.

Pilot Projects
Two pilot research projects are also included in the Center's structure, which will provide initial support for innovative influenza research.

At Emory, Dr. Douglas Lowery will assess the use of a radiofrequency (RF) proximity detection system for the measurement of patient and staff contacts within the emergency department of a large urban hospital.

At UGA, Dr. Ralph Tripp and his group will focus on identifying cellular genes required for influenza virus infection but not essential for the host cell.