Molecular and Applied Virology

Our group studies how double-stranded RNA viruses, such as rotaviruses and mammalian orthoreoviruses, reorganize host cells to create specialized replication compartments. These structures, known as viral factories (MRV) and viroplasms (RV), are essential for viral genome replication and particle assembly.

We uncover the molecular interactions, host–virus dynamics, and structural mechanisms that drive the formation, movement, and function of these compartments. Our discoveries span:

• How viral proteins reshape the cytoskeleton to guide factory and viroplasm organization
• How rotaviruses manipulate the cell cycle and host machinery to boost replication
• Key viral components and host factors required for genome packaging and particle assembly
• New molecular targets and small molecules that disrupt viroplasm formation
• Tools for studying replication structures across diverse and hard-to-culture rotavirus species

By combining cell biology, virus reverse genetics, proteomics, and structural approaches, we aim to reveal the fundamental principles that govern dsRNA virus replication, and uncover vulnerabilities that can inform antiviral strategies.

Biofilms are highly organized bacterial communities encased in a protective, self-produced extracellular matrix composed of polysaccharides, DNA, lipids, and proteins. This matrix provides structure, surface adhesion, and environmental resilience.

Bacillus subtilis, a safe, GRAS-classified probiotic, is a powerful model for uncovering the molecular mechanisms of biofilm formation. In our group, we leverage one of its key matrix proteins, TasA, as a versatile scaffold for surface protein display.

Our research aims to engineer B. subtilis biofilms as therapeutic platforms for both animal and human health, exploring innovative strategies for delivering bioactive molecules, enhancing host interactions, and developing next-generation probiotic therapies.