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Research Interests:
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The research in my laboratory focuses on cell-mediated immunity to viruses. As a model, we are using a genital herpes simplex virus infection of mice. My laboratory is investigating the activation, effector function, and regulation of innate and acquired immunity in the female genital tract. Using vaccination with attenuated strains of HSV-2 as a paradigm for an effective herpes virus vaccine, we are also identifying correlates of immune protection of the genital tract and peripheral nervous system against HSV-2 infection. Specifically, we are identifying the cell subsets involved in protection and are examining the immune mechanisms at the molecular level that are involved in clearing HSV-2 from the genital mucosa and that protect the sensory ganglia against the establishment of latent herpes simplex virus infection. In other vaccine-related studies, we are examining homing and maintenance of antigen-specific memory CD4+ and CD8+ T cells within the genital mucosa and sensory ganglia.
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