Immune regulation of viral infection and vice versa

Abstract

In our laboratory we study the mechanisms by which the immune system controls viral infection and by which viruses evade immune control. To study issues at this interface between virology and immunology, we work from the hypothesis that viruses manipulate the immune response as the immune response attempts to eradicate the virus. Analysis of these issues is key to understanding acute and chronic diseases caused by viruses. Two concepts drive our approach: (1) the simultaneous analysis of immune and viral mechanisms allows novel insights, and (2) genetic tests in vivo are necessary to establish mechanisms. © 2005 Humana Press Inc.