Missions

The HIV-1 requires the concerted contribution of many cellular factors and different signaling pathways to replicate. Meanwhile, mammalian cells express many proteins that suppress the viral replication. These restriction factors define the first line of defense against infection. Among them, the proteins of the APOBEC3 family (A3) and in particular A3G/A3F, are cytosine deaminases whose action of editing during the reverse transcription of the viral genome is lethal for the virus. The antiviral activity of A3G/3F is counteracted by the HIV-1 Vif protein, which drastically reduces their level of expression and their incorporation into viral particles at different levels (transcription, translation and degradation via the proteasome). Our team recently discovered an uORF (upstream ORF) in the 5' untranslated region (5'UTR) of A3G mRNA and showed its importance not only for the intrinsic translation of A3G, but also for its regulation by Vif. The consequence of this lower expression is a significant reduction in the quantity of A3G/A3F proteins incorporated into viral particles and an increase in their infectivity.
The aims of this project, in collaboration with S. Gallois-Montbrun (Institut Cochin, Paris) and L. Etienne (CIRI, Lyon), will be to (i) characterize the Vif interactome, and test its impact on A3G translation and viral replication, and (ii) explore the phylogenetic conservation of the A3G uORF

Activités

- Research project management (experimental and bibliographic)
- Follow-up of scientific collaboration
- Trainee supervision
- Manuscript writing

Compétences

- General knowledge in biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology
- Good knowledge of HIV-1 and RNA biology
- Skills in the analysis of proteomics and/or transcriptomics data
- Autonomous work
- Possible work in a level 3 laboratory (BSL3)
- English language (level B2)

Contexte de travail

The M/W researcher will be assigned to the “RNA Architecture and Reactivity” unit, which includes 10 teams working on various aspects of RNA biology in connection with various infectious pathologies in Humans. He/she will work under the responsibility of Jean-Christophe Paillart, DR-CNRS, co-leader of the “viral RIbonucleoproteins, genome incorporation and assembly” team. The researcher will benefit from a stimulating scientific environment and will have access to the equipment and technical platforms of the unit and the institute necessary for the project

Contraintes et risques

- The project involves collaborations with other teams in France (travels). Therefore, a certain flexibility and adaptability are required.
- BSL3 laboratory work might be required

Informations complémentaires

3-year post-doctoral contract funded by the ANRS-MIE (National Agency for Research against AIDS - Emerging Infectious Diseases). Start of the contract (Nov 2023-Jan 2024). Applications will be made only via the recruitment website. M/W candidates must provide a CV, a cover letter (including a summary of scientific interests) and a summary of previous research work, as well as the contacts of 2-3 referees.