Characterization of the viral epitopes that trigger immunity to papillomavirus infection therefore will be key to planning immunotherapeutic management of this infectious disease. The overall research theme in our laboratory is studies on immunity to papillomavirus infections. Our research is currently centered on the analysis of papillomavirus capsid epitopes recognized by panels of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies. In addition, we are using the rabbit papillomavirus models for the testing of protective and prophylactic vaccines. There are a number of research projects currently being conducted in Dr. Clawson's laboratories, with the major area of interest focused upon early changes in carcinogenesis.
Investigations currently focus upon two areas.
One is the nature of the RNA transcripts showing altered compartmentation. In addition, a number of transgenic models are under development, particularly for novel tissue-targeted gene knockout techniques. Other collaborative projects examine mechanisms by which estrogens may act as an initiator via redox cycling, and development of in vivo models for treatment of prostate and breast cancers. Many mutations are required to convert a normal cell to a cancer cell. Unfortunately, our understanding of how mutations occur in cancer cells is inadequate to explain the high incidence of human cancers.