Natural model for evaluating within- and cross-species virus transmission
The global virome is incredibly diverse and emerging viruses threaten global health. Unfortunately, fewinfection models can recapitulate natural transmission and evolution. Here we propose to bridge natural andexperimental systems to study real-time transmission dynamics within and between hosts and infer virus-pathogen relationships. To accomplish this we will leverage a model whereby the natural rodent pathogens from pet store mice are exposed to laboratory mice, rats, hamsters, or deer mice. This model offers a platform for studying acute transmission of viruses between and within hosts via natural mechanisms.