Cellular and Molecular Virology

Our Research
The Cellular and Molecular Virology Research Group at Örebro University focuses on flaviviruses—RNA viruses that cause serious infections in both humans and animals. Our main focus is tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), but we also use Langat virus, Kunjin virus, and Zika virus as model systems to explore viral virulence, host immunity, and opportunities for vaccine development.

We combine molecular biology, immunology, virology, and translational science to:

• Map the viral life cycle and its molecular interactions with host cells,
• Understand the immune response and its role in protection and disease,
• Develop novel vaccine candidates based on live-attenuated viruses and infectious RNA,
• Explore the molecular epidemiology and genetic diversity of flaviviruses based on sequencing of patient and tick-derived isolates.

Projects and Collaborations
Our group is affiliated with the KK-funded Developvaccines@oru project and maintains strong collaborations within both academia and industry.

Key partners include:

• Travis Taylor (University of Toledo, USA)
• Åshild Andreassen (Norwegian Institute of Public Health)
• Matti Sällberg (Karolinska Institutet)

We are conducting a new project investigating the long-term neuropsychological effects of TBEV infection, focusing on fatigue, cognitive performance, mental health, and quality of life. The study combines clinical follow-up, psychometric testing, and immunological profiling to better understand the interplay between viral infection, immune response, and brain function. The work is carried out in collaboration with clinical and psychological experts.

Model Systems and Methods
We employ a range of advanced systems and techniques, including:

• Reverse genetics to generate infectious clones
• Sequencing of viruses directly from ticks and patients
• In vitro and animal models for immunological studies
• ELISA, fluorospot, and RNA analysis to assess immune responses

Research Group and Supervision
We are a multidisciplinary team with a focus on doctoral and postdoctoral development. We are engaged in PhD supervision within virology and translational biomedical science, including projects with clinical and neuropsychological focus.

Contact and Collaboration
We welcome collaborations in molecular virology, immunology, vaccine platforms, and translational research. 

Contact: magnus.johansson@oru.se