An ambitious international research initiative, coordinated by Heidelberg University, is tackling the challenge of highly dangerous viral diseases. This project seeks to develop innovative molecular strategies that can disrupt viral entry into cells and hinder replication processes. By focusing on flavivirus, mammarenavirus, and henipavirus, the team aims to design entry inhibitors and understand immune evasion mechanisms. The European Union has committed nearly eight million euros over five years to support this collaborative effort involving ten universities and research institutions across Europe.

The EU-backed project, titled "Molecular Strategies against Viral Entry and Glycan Shielding" (SHIELD), targets pathogens known for their severe impact on human health. Researchers are investigating how viruses penetrate host cells and replicate, with a particular emphasis on glycan shielding—a phenomenon where sugar chains on the cell surface influence immune responses. Prof. Dr Christian Klein, leading the Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry department at Heidelberg University, explains that understanding these processes could enhance immune defenses and improve vaccine efficacy. The study will explore various molecular substances designed computationally and tested in biological systems ranging from in-vitro assays to mouse models.

The research encompasses a broad spectrum of expertise, including bioinformatics, computational drug design, chemistry, immunology, structural biology, and virology. At Heidelberg University, scientists are synthesizing new entry inhibitors and glycan-binding substances tailored to different viral pathogens. Meanwhile, at Heidelberg University Hospital, Dr Vibor Laketa's team is employing advanced imaging techniques to observe viral entry into host cells and assess the effects of molecular interventions such as biological substances, nanoparticles, and antibodies. This multi-faceted approach aims to identify promising candidates for robust vaccines and potential clinical studies.

To kickstart the consortium, a meeting was held in mid-February 2025 at Heidelberg University, bringing together experts from Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Sweden, and Switzerland. The SHIELD project falls under the "Health" cluster of the Horizon Europe research framework program, reflecting the EU's commitment to advancing medical science and public health.

This pioneering research not only promises to deepen our understanding of viral mechanisms but also paves the way for developing novel therapeutic approaches. By integrating diverse scientific disciplines, the project seeks to uncover innovative solutions that could lead to more effective treatments and preventive measures against dangerous viral diseases. The long-term goal is to identify reference substances and potential candidates for initial clinical trials, ultimately enhancing global health security.