Molecular mechanisms of RNA virus replication
First, we examine at a molecular level the mechanisms of virus replication, such as virus protein synthesis, genome replication, and viral particle formation and their interplay with cellular processes.
RNAi and its function as an antiviral defense mechanism
Secondly, we study the host strategies that control virus infection, including innate immune responses, such as RNAi and the mechanisms that the virus has evolved to suppress the host antiviral responses.
Virus population dynamics and evolution
Lastly, we are developing novel and exciting approaches to study virus population dynamics and evolution at the molecular and genomic level, and the consequences of these evolutionary strategies for viral pathogenesis and the epidemiology of viral diseases. Understanding the mechanisms of virus evolution is essential to both development of antiviral therapies and vaccine design.