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Heidelberg researchers are fighting against dangerous viruses: hope through new strategies!
Heidelberg University is leading an EU project to combat viruses through molecular strategies and innovative research approaches.
Heidelberg researchers are fighting against dangerous viruses: hope through new strategies!
A novel EU project entitled “Molecular Strategies against Viral Entry and Glycan Shielding” (SHIELD) aims to develop innovative methods to combat dangerous viral pathogens such as flaviviruses, mammarenaviruses and henipaviruses. Under the direction of Prof. Klein, working in the Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry at the Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology University of Heidelberg, this research initiative is supported with a total funding amount of 1.45 million euros for the university and 660,000 euros for the Heidelberg University Hospital.
The primary goal of the project is to prevent viral cell entry and subsequent virus replication through the use of specific entry inhibitors. The main research methods include the analysis of glycans, which are found on cell surfaces and play an essential role in the immune response. The research teams aim to disrupt molecular mechanisms that allow viruses to invade host cells.
Research and Development
The development of molecular active ingredients is carried out using computer-aided methods, followed by tests in biological systems such as in vitro analyses, cell cultures and mouse models. In the long term, the team aims to identify reference substances and potential candidates for clinical studies.
Experts from various disciplines – including bioinformatics, drug design, chemistry, immunology, structural biology and virology – will be involved in the project, which also promotes international collaboration with eight other universities and research institutions from Denmark, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Sweden and Switzerland. The kickoff meeting took place in mid-February 2025 at Heidelberg University.
The role of glycans in the immune system
The importance of glycosylation, a common post-translational modification of proteins, is becoming increasingly clear. Glycans are present on the surface of viruses and in human tissue and influence interactions between pathogens and the host. Various glycan-binding proteins (GBPs) decode the biological information stored in the diversity of glycan structures. These structures help distinguish between “self” and “non-self,” which is crucial for the functioning of the immune system.
How Nature reported, changes in cellular glycome caused by genetic and environmental factors can be linked to pathological phenotypes. In inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, significant changes in glycosylation often occur under the influence of proinflammatory cytokines.
Research proves that glycans are also involved in recognizing and responding to bacterial, viral and fungal infections and may support microbes' ability to evade immune responses. Particularly notable are the topological glycoepitopes, which represent specific groups of glycans recognized by antibodies. These findings could provide potential therapeutic and diagnostic tools to combat infections in the context of vaccines and new therapies.
Project SHIELD has the potential to advance the development of better vaccines and strengthen the immune system against viral infections. Research findings on the role of glycans in the immune system are seen as key to combating infections and containing viral outbreaks, while at the same time pursuing new cutting-edge research approaches in the field of glycan-based therapy.
In summary, the new molecular interventions being developed within the EU project not only offer the potential to improve immunotherapy, but also represent a significant step forward in global health research.