The Role of Gasdermin D and E During Severe Influenza A Virus Infection

This thesis investigates the roles of gasdermin D (GSDMD) and gasdermin E (GSDME) in severe influenza A virus (IAV) infection. In vivo and in vitro models demonstrated that genetic deletion of either gasdermin reduces inflammation, viral load, and lung damage, leading to improved survival. In vitro analyses revealed distinct activation patterns and interferon-mediated transcriptional regulation, highlighting cell-specific functions. Pharmacological inhibition of gasdermins modulated immune responses and viral burden, underscoring their therapeutic potential. These findings establish GSDMD and GSDME as key drivers of IAV immunopathology and promising targets for host-directed antiviral strategies.