My primary research interest has always been the interaction of viral replication and host cellular factors. During my PhD I applied an advanced mass spectrometric method of measuring kinase activity during viral infection, specifically seasonal and highly pathogenic avian influenza. Targets identified in our activity screen represent potential targets of host directed therapeutics for viral infection, and the potential of broad-spectrum antivirals. I also collaborated with our resident High Throughput Screening center on assay development including libraries of FDA approved compounds and putative small molecule kinase inhibitors.
At UTMB I expanded the above topics to agents of highest concern and highest biocontainment. I contributed to projects working on viral infections in diverse organ systems in the central nervous system and the respiratory system. This work culminated in the development of a Marburg virus model of infection in STAT2 deficient hamsters.
As a Research Associate (NTT Faculty) at Rutgers I support our work on the interaction of the immune system and necroptosis, through the axis of the RIPK3 necroptotic pathway, and brain injury. Our models include both infectious (Zika, WNV) and sterile (Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s) modes of neuroinflammation. We use both recombinant mice and primary human cell lines to probe these questions.
I have extensive experience in the culture of mammalian viruses, having helped develop drug screening assays at BSL-2, 3, and 4. My particular interests are in the application of novel cell models to viral pathogenesis studies to understand the interplay of natural reservoir hosts and viruses and how that differs during spillover events. I am interested in the evolution of viruses both in cell culture and in vivo models.