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Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference: GR/T26979/01
Title: Mathematical Virology: Assembly Models for Viral Capsids based on Tiling Theory
Principal Investigator: Twarock, Professor R
Other Investigators:
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
Department: Mathematics
Organisation: University of York
Scheme: Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts: 01 February 2005 Ends: 31 January 2008 Value (£): 67,938
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
Algebra & Geometry Medical science & disease
Non-linear Systems Mathematics Theoretical biology
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
Healthcare
Related Grants:
Panel History:  
Summary on Grant Application Form
This research programme in the area of Mathematical Virology considers mathematical models for the assembly of viral capsids, that is shell structures formed from protein subunits that encapsulate the viral genome. Such models are of strong current interest because they constitute important milestones for the understanding of viral replication mechanisms and hence ultimately for the design of anti-viral therapeutics.In this project we exploit a novel mathematical approach in which viral capsids are modeled based on tiling theory. This approach has been shown to cover all experimentally discovered viruses, especially the family of Papovaviridae. This family of viruses is of prime importance for the public health sector because it contains cancer causing viruses, but could not be treated with previous mathematical approaches before. Based on our tiling models, we develop assembly models for viral capsids and study the role of malformation during assembly. As a result of this, we expect to be able to suggest strategies for interference with viral capsid assembly.As expected from an interdisciplinary project, all mathematical results and models will constantly be discussed with biologist experts in the field, and visits to the group of Dr Zlotnick at the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the Health Services Center of the University of Oklahoma are planned during the course of the project.
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Project URL: http://gow.epsrc.ac.uk/ViewGrant.aspx?GrantRef=GR/T26979/01
Further Information:  
Organisation Website: http://www.york.ac.uk