The Rajsbaum lab studies Innate immune responses, which are essential to protect host cells against pathogens. Upon infection, viruses are recognized by the host cell triggering signaling pathways leading to induction of type-I Interferons (IFN-I) and other cytokines that protect against infections. These responses need to be carefully balanced to avoid detrimental effects to the host. Post-translational modifications, including ubiquitination and phosphorylation, regulate the activity of immune signaling components. However, viruses have adapted to antagonize these responses. In addition, viruses can also take advantage of the host ubiquitin system to enhance their replication resulting in increased pathology. The Rajsbaum lab is interested in elucidating 1) How viruses are recognized by the host cell via pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and the regulation of these pathways, 2) how viruses have adapted to inhibit these antiviral pathways, and 3) How viruses hijack factors of the ubiquitin system to promote virus replication.
- Title
- Associate Professor and Director, Center for Virus-Host-Innate Immunity
- Area of Study/Expertise
- Viruses
- rr1234@newark.rutgers.edu