Basic research is conducted to elucidate the molecular properties of pathogenic viruses.
Studies involve cDNA cloning, sequence analysis, expression of viral genes in procaryotic and eucaryotic systems, preparation and characterization of monoclonal antibodies, antigenic analysis of relevant viral epitopes and development of in vitro systems of viral replication. Viruses include, but are not restricted to bunyaviruses, alphaviruses, flaviviruses and arenaviruses. Unique research facilities are available for containment of special pathogens. DNA vaccination with vaccinia virus L1R and A33R genes protects mice against a lethal poxvirus challenge. Clinical evaluation of a vaccinia-vectored Hantaan virus vaccine.