Abstract
Cell entry of retroviruses are mediated by the different subunits of the retroviral envelope glycoprotein (Env) when engaged with cellular receptors. Membrane fusion occurs when the coordinated action of these molecules induces membrane pore formation and opening culminating in capsid release. The molecular determinants regulating murine leukemia virus (MLV) are still elusive. For membrane fusion to occur, the organization of both Env and receptors into micro- and nano-sized protein clusters is crucial. In this project we will employ and further develop state-of-the-art fluorescence microscopy approaches, including fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) and single-molecule localisation microscopy (SMLM) to address this question.
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