Viruses utilize an array of strategies to avoid detection by the immune system. Such techniques are imperative to the virus's "survival" and successful replication. Escape mutations, structural modifications and immunological decoys are just some examples of how viruses can outwit their host. Characterizing such evasion strategies can have major therapeutic implications. Our lab focuses on how viruses can repurpose their surface proteins, and display alternative epitopes, in order to generate an ineffective immune response.
