Our research
The Section of Virology and Immunotherapy focuses on studying the interplay between viruses and cancer. The laboratory investigates mechanisms of viral oncogenesis and novel viral-based therapeutics for cancer. A key component of our research is to advance our understanding of the cancer vir-ome, glioma immunology, and novel drug targets. Housed within the University of Miami Brain Tumor Institute, the SVI is primarily focused on rapidly translating these discoveries to advance the treatment of malignant brain tumors.
The role of endogenous retroviruses in gliomas
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) account for approximately 8% of the human genome, but are inactive in normal tissues. In several cancers and neurodegenerative conditions, HERV expression may be pathologically activated. We have demonstrated pathological expression of one of these viruses, HERV-K, in gliomas. As a result, we are now employing several techniques to understand the function of HERV-K in gliomas, and develop novel treatments to target aberrant HERV-K expression.
Virotherapy
The SVI also focuses on the development of novel viral-based therapeutics that have marked anti-cancer activity. Given the protected environment of the brain, the laboratory is focused on investigating how novel neurotropic viruses can specifically target glioblastoma and mediate anti-tumor immunity. Our lab hopes to continue development of novel viral vectors that are capable of selectively targeting and killing brain tumors..
Potentiation of Immunotherapy
Our laboratory focuses on studying the cancer immune microenvironment to understand mechanisms of immunosuppression. The laboratory utilizes a multi-omic approach to assess immune responses before and after brain tumor surgery. The section is interested in developing:
1. Novel biomarkers that predict response to immunotherapy
2. Imaging Modalities to visualize the immune response in brain tumors
3. Therapeutics that may synergistically activate immunotherapy.