Our laboratory studies two herpesviruses, human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV). Our goal is to understand HCMV and VZV pathogenesis - specifically, how these viruses interact with host cells, replicate in and cause diseases.

HCMV infects approximately 80% of the adult population.HCMV is a major cause of infectious morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised individuals, especially in AIDS and transplant patients. HCMV infection also is a leading cause of birth defects.