Welcome to the Zhu Lab
Our lab works with retroviruses (HIV-1, MLV, etc.) and focuses on identifying new host antiviral factors and deciphering viral antagonism of host defense. We use a combination of molecular, genomic, and cellular techniques to study the interactions between retroviruses and host cells. Particularly, we are interested in:
- Epigenetic silencing and latency of HIV-1 DNA
- Translation and stability control of HIV-1 mRNA
Comprehensive understanding mechanisms of host-retrovirus interactions will provide unique insights into gene regulation and potential opportunities for new antiviral therapies.