Respiratory Mucus as a One Health Interface (ONEMUC)

The collaborative project “Respiratory Mucus as a One Health Interface (ONEMUC)” investigates how the composition and structure of mucosal barriers (mucus) influence the zoonotic transmission of influenza A viruses between animals and humans. The aim is to identify key molecular and ecological factors that determine whether viruses are blocked or transmitted at the mucus barrier. ONEMUC thereby contributes to a better understanding of zoonotic infections and to the development of new strategies for prevention and risk assessment within the One Health framework.

Respiratory diseases are one of the most common causes of death worldwide. In addition, viruses that affect the respiratory tract pose a particularly high risk of pandemic spread. Influenza A viruses (IAV) are a key focus of pandemic prevention because they are regularly transmitted between different animal species.

Mucus barrier insufficiently investigated

The mucus barrier is often overlooked in studies examining a viral pathogen’s host tropism – i.e., its ability to infect specific hosts. The ONEMUC project aims to close this gap. The project’s researchers will study mucus as an interface in order to better assess risk factors for virus transmission to different species. This will allow the pandemic potential of newly emerging IAV strains to be assessed more quickly.

In line with the One Health approach, which focuses on the health of humans, animals and the environment together, ONEMUC also includes environmental factors in its investigations. Pollen, dust and exhaust fumes that we breathe in can irritate the airways and affect the composition of mucus. This in turn can affect the stability and infectivity of viruses. Researchers will investigate the complex interplay between air pollutants, particulate matter and mucus and how these factors modulate the transmission of IAV.

RIFS researchers measure environmental exposure with sensors

The ONEMUC project uses wearable sensors to monitor individual exposure to environmental burdens and the properties of respiratory mucus. Anonymised data is carefully analysed to create exposure profiles and to understand how air pollutants affect the mucus barrier and contribute to the spread of influenza A viruses. RIFS researchers are responsible for conducting and analysing personal environmental exposure measurements and interpreting the results within a One Health framework.