The airways are continuously exposed to pathogens, allergens, toxins, and environmental contaminants. In addition to its role as a physical barrier, the airway epithelial surface represents a “battleground,” where the host intercepts signals from pathogens (e.g., viruses and bacteria) and activates epithelial defenses to prevent infection.
Current Projects
- Utilize the cellular mechanisms discovered by investigating airway epithelial viral infection to target molecules in cystic fibrosis airway epithelium and lung.
- Investigating novel viral mechanisms may provide targets for novel therapies.