Center for Relativistic Laser Science

Host-virus interactions are complex processes that span binding to cells, entry, dissemination, and finally lytic or latent infection. During infection, host innate immune system restricts viral replication. However, mechanisms underlying viral propagation out of the host surveillance remain unclear.

Our research goal is to understand the molecular basis of virus latency establishment and how it plays a critical role in cellular immune evasion and/or viral reactivation. In addition, we are interested in understanding the role of “the endogenous parasites”, retroelements, in host-virus interaction and innate immunity.