National Institute of Virology and Bacteriology

The main objective of the project is to concentrate excellent research teams of the Czech Republic in the National Institute of Virology and Bacteriology (NIVB) in order to implement a common research agenda in the field of virology, bacteriology and the development of antiviral and antibacterial treatments. The NIVB aims to make discoveries in infectious diseases that will improve human health. It will develop safe and effective antiviral and antibacterial therapies and prepare platforms for future drug discovery and development against viruses and bacteria with pandemic potential. Despite decades of research, vaccinations and treatments against many infectious diseases are still not available. The importance and urgent need for new treatments is illustrated by the negative health and economic impact of infectious diseases. The development of new therapeutics requires a fundamental understanding of the mechanisms that allow pathogens to infect cells and cause disease, many of which are still poorly understood. Basic and clinical research on viruses and pathogenic bacteria is essential to better understand and develop therapeutic responses to the processes by which pathogens cause disease, how they escape the immune system and how they resist treatment. Therefore, the NIVB will pursue cutting-edge research in the areas of (1) Pathogen-host interactions, (2) Immunity against viruses and bacteria, and (3) Treatments forviral and bacterial infections. By working with pathogens that are relevant to current clinical practice, as well as emerging viruses and bacteria, the Institute’s research groups will be able to provide the expertise and facilities to study new pathogens that may spread to the human population in the future. The NIVB will thus become a national authority and knowledge partner for public authorities in this respect.