Viral Pathogenesis Lab

Research 

The research of the lab focuses on the interactions between herpes simplex virus and its human host. Herpes is a widespread infection for which there is no vaccine and no cure. To identify new therapeutic targets, we use molecular, cellular and immunological approaches to understand host-virus interactions and responses to infection. We are characterizing the molecular mechanisms by which HSV binds to cellular receptors in order to enter its target cells. We also study cellular responses to the virus to identify  factors involved in susceptibility to HSV infections. Since the virus binds cellular receptors with cell-adhesion and immunomodulatory functions, we investigate how HSV interferes with the function of these receptors. Finally, since HSV is a very widespread oral pathogen, we are also interested in the infection of gingival and epithelial cells by HSV. This combination of approaches aims at identifying new biomarkers for HSV susceptibility and discovering novel therapeutic targets for innovative antiviral agents able to prevent HSV infection.

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