The broad aim of the research carried out in the laboratory is to study the elements that control translation in eukaryotic and viral systems. As a model system, we are working on translational control of retroviral RNAs and particularly that of lentiviral genomic RNAs (HIV-1, HIV-2, SIV and FIV). We have gathered evidence that retroviral translation is controlled both by the 3D structure of the genomic RNA, notably by the presence of IRES sequences that direct direct entry of the ribosomes to the AUG start codon, by the interaction of viral proteins with the cellular translational apparatus and also by the exclusive use of cellular proteins such as the DDX3 RNA helicase. In addition, cellular miRNAs are also very important in the control of both viral and cellular translation. The laboratory is interested in investigating the molecular mechanism by which these small non coding RNAs can interfere with translation.  These mechanisms are being investigated at the molecular level by using in vitro and in vivo translational assays.

Key words: Translational control, HIV, IRES, Ribosomes, miRNA