Emerging and Re-Emerging Viruses

The thematic area dedicated to emerging and re-emerging viruses focuses on investigating the biological mechanisms underlying infectious threats and monitoring their evolution, with the aim of understanding how viruses evolve, spread, and interact with their hosts.

The scientific activities are primarily organized into three main areas:

• Molecular Biology, Viral Genetics, and Evolution: Investigation of viral replication mechanisms, mutations, and genetic changes occurring during infectious outbreaks, with particular attention to cross-species transmission at the human–animal interface. These biological insights support the mapping of viral geographic spread and provide essential data for mathematical and epidemiological models.
• High-Resolution Molecular Diagnostics: Development of novel molecular methods and technologies to identify pathogens with greater accuracy and resolution than conventional diagnostic approaches, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the impact and progression of infections across different clinical settings.
• Characterization of Cellular Immune Responses: In-depth investigation, including at the single-cell level, of the mammalian immune system's response to infection. Research focuses on the biology and functions of T and B lymphocytes, examining both the mechanisms underlying immune memory and the molecular processes that can, under certain conditions, cause protective immune responses to develop into acute and uncontrolled inflammation.