Luwen Zhang, PhD

Professor

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Virus–host interactions form an essential part of every aspect of life, and our studies are focused on the interactions, and our research will be a blend of virology, molecular and cellular biology, immunology, and pathology. The major focuses are:

1. The IRFs in EBV transformation
   Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a human herpesvirus and associated with several cancers. Interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) are a small family of transcriptional factors with multiple functions. Dr. Zhang was the first to discover the IRF-7, a critical gene in viral transformation and innate immunity. We are taking both genetic and biochemical manipulations to dissect the involvement of cellular factors and signaling pathways in the regulation of IRFs and their roles in EBV-mediated oncogenesis.
2. EBV in autoimmune diseases.
   EBV has intrinsic relations with the host immune system and is closely associated with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). We are studying the roles of EBV in autoimmune diseases, especially in MS.
3. Virus-stem cells interactions.
   We are interested in generating a personalized hiPSC genetic system for modification of hiPSC for wide variety of applications. In addition, we are using the iPSC-generated stem cells for studying viral infections and pathogenesis.

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