Viral Immunology Laboratory (바이러스면역학 실험실)
“Mechanistic Insights into Host-Virus Interactions and Extracellular Vesicle Biology”
Our laboratory investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms that control host-virus interactions and extracellular vesicle-mediated cellular communication during infection and disease. Our research focuses on understanding how viruses reprogram host cells, how host defense systems counteract infection, and how extracellular vesicles function as critical regulators of intercellular signaling across tissues, including the central nervous system.
Host-virus interactions represent a highly dynamic biological network in which viral entry, replication, and dissemination are counterbalanced by host sensing pathways, intrinsic restriction factors, and coordinated immune responses. At the same time, viruses have evolved sophisticated strategies to manipulate cellular pathways, evade immune surveillance, and reshape intracellular and extracellular communication systems.
A central focus of our research is the role of exosomes and other extracellular vesicles as active mediators of disease progression. We study how virus-induced alterations in vesicle biogenesis and cargo composition affect immune regulation, systemic inflammation, and neurovascular integrity. Extending beyond classical virology, we explore how extracellular vesicle–mediated signaling contributes to neurological and neurodegenerative disorders.
Through hypothesis-driven, mechanistic research, we aim to identify the fundamental principles that determine viral pathogenesis, host defense, and vesicle-mediated intercellular communication in infectious and neurological diseases.
Our core mission rests on three fundamental pillars:
1) Extracellular vesicle-mediated mechanisms in infection and neurodegenerative diseases
We study how virus-induced remodeling of extracellular vesicles affects viral spread, immune modulation, and neuroinflammation.
2) Host restriction factors and antiviral defense pathways
We identify intrinsic and induced host mechanisms that restrict viral replication and shape infection outcomes.
3) Viral reprogramming of host cellular systems
We examine how viruses manipulate immune sensing, trafficking networks, and stress responses to evade immune surveillance.
