Our laboratory studies human herpesviruses, specifically Kaposi’s Sarcoma Herpesvirus (KSHV). All herpesviruses establish lifelong infections in hosts. Our research focus is on the viral lifecycle and factors that may influence viral replication. We apply molecular and cellular based methods to investigate the proteins that control viral DNA replication and the environmental chemicals and stressors that promote virus reactivation.
Major research questions
How do viral proteins interact with DNA?
Using high resolution electron microscopy we examine the molecular interactions between viral proteins and DNA.
Does exposure to cellular and environmental stressors induce viral reactivation?
By applying fluorescence microscopy methods and biochemical assays we examine how exposure to stressors alters the viral lifecycle.
The Costantini Lab 