Nacho Mena, Ph.D

My research interests include the phylogenetic and phenotypic characterization of animal influenza viruses isolated from wildlife and livestock species by our collaborators within the CEIRS network. We have described the first influenza viruses isolated from Northern Elephant Seals and we are studying the evolution of the swine influenza viruses ancestral to the the 2009 influenza pandemic in humans. We have also established a routine pipeline for the sequencing and analysis of the complete genome of the influenza viruses sampled by our collaborators. I also use reverse genetics to modify negative stranded RNA viruses, such as Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) and influenza virus. We do this for different purposes, including the development of live attenuated vaccines against diseases such as swine and avian influenza virus, Ebola virus, human and bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and Rift Valley Fever or avian Bornavirus, among others. Some of these vaccine candidates have been tested in animals with very good safety, immunogenicity and protection profiles.

My research has provided critical contributions to in vitro and in vivo studies on influenza viruses, including the select agent influenza viruses that require enhanced BSL3 biocontainment. My current research interests are focused on studying host-pathogen interactions involving viruses that infect the respiratory tract. Specific areas of research on influenza viruses include studies on molecular biology, pathogenesis, and regulation of innate and adaptive immune responses. Additional areas of research are focused on vaccine development, studies on humoral responses to vaccines, development and efficacy testing of novel vaccines, and in vitro assays of antibody-mediated virus neutralization.