The University of Hong Kong has introduced an HKU Centennial Distinguished Chinese Scholars Scheme that brings to the University outstanding researchers from Mainland China to further strengthen our scientific exchange with them.

On 13 June 2019 (Thursday), The HKU School of Public Health will host a scientific lecture entitled “70 Years of Disease Control and Prevention in China” by Professor George F. Gao, HKU Centennial Distinguished Chinese Scholar 2018-19. Professor Gao is Director-General of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Dean of Savaid Medical School of University of Chinse Academy of Sciences, Vice President of National Natural Science Foundation of China, and Foreign Associate of the National Academy of Sciences.

Abstract:

In recent years, emerging or re-emerging infectious diseases caused by influenza, MERS, Ebola, Zika, Chikungunya virus and Enterovirus have posed a serious threat to human health and economic well-being. Virus entry is the first step of viral infection and important target of antiviral intervention. We studied and systematically summarised the interspecies transmission mechanisms of influenza viruses including H5N1 and H7N9, and the diversified and unexpected entry mechanisms of different enveloped viruses like MERS-CoV, Ebola virus and Chikungunya virus. We also identified a novel uncoating receptor for Enterovirus B and deciphered the underlying mechanistic mechanisms of enterovirus attachment and uncoating. A series of therapeutic antibodies and vaccines were then developed to provide important support for the prevention and control of infectious diseases.

Details of the scientific lecture are as follows:

Please click here to view Professor Gao’s bio.

The lecture will be conducted in English, followed by a Q&A session. Please register online by noon, 12 June 2019 (Wednesday).

For enquiries, please contact Mr Shawn Kam at 3917 9486 or mhkam@hku.hk. We look forward to seeing you at the scientific lecture.