Overview

My research explores the interplay between neuronal physiology and viral infection, with a focus on herpes simplex virus (HSV) latency and reactivation in neurons. HSV establishes lifelong latency in sensory ganglia, periodically reactivating to cause recurrent disease. While viral factors governing latency are well-studied, how intrinsic neuronal properties—such as electrical activity, metabolic state, and signaling pathways—regulate HSV gene expression and reactivation remains unclear. Using advanced neuronal models, live-cell imaging, and molecular virology techniques, I investigate how host neuron biology influences viral persistence, aiming to uncover novel therapeutic strategies to suppress reactivation.

In a complementary line of research, I develop optogenetic and AAV-based gene delivery tools for precise neural circuit manipulation. By engineering AAV serotypes, promoters, and delivery methods, I optimize cortical layer-specific transgene expression, enabling high-precision interrogation of neural circuits. This work has implications for both basic neuroscience and gene therapy, potentially advancing treatments for neurological disorders.

Bridging virology and neuroscience, my work seeks to uncover how neuronal function shapes viral pathogenesis while developing innovative neurotechnological tools. Future directions include exploring whether optogenetic control of neuronal activity can modulate HSV latency, offering new insights into neurovirology and brain circuit regulation.

This research is supported by funding from the NINDS/NIH (R01NS138288) and NIMH/NIH (U24MH137478).