HIV

Dr. Binley uses HIV virus-like particles ("VLPs") as a vaccine platform. Based on the past successes of vaccines for polio, smallpox, measles, mumps, rubella, and papilloma, among others, it has been shown that inactivated vaccines, including VLPs that closely resemble the live infectious virus, might be our best hope for a successful vaccine.

Learn More >> Influenza and H Influenae

Dr. Sarawar's research group is studying secondary bacterial infections following infection with influenza virus. Such secondary infections cause pneumonia or meningitis in young children, debilitated elderly and immunocompromised individuals and result in considerable morbidity and mortality.

Learn More >> Smallpox

Smallpox, a highly contagious and sometimes lethal disease, is caused by the variola virus. Due to a successful vaccination program conducted worldwide, smallpox was eradicated in 1979. Recent events have raised concerns regarding the possible use of smallpox, as well as new emerging infections such as monkey pox, as bioterrorism agents.

Learn More >> Leishmania

Leishmaniasis is endemic worldwide with more than 2 million new cases reported yearly. The disease is caused by a protozoan parasite of the genus Leishmania, and is transmitted by a sand fly. Depending on the Leishmania species, the disease can have multiple outcomes ranging from localized cutaneous, diffuse cutaneous, mucocutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis.

Learn More >> Viral Vaccine Development

Dr. Sally Sarawar's research group is studying mechanisms of immune control of persistent viral infections. Certain types of viruses can persist in a latent or inactive form in the body and are controlled by the immune system in normal healthy people. However, these viruses can reactivate in immune-compromised individuals, such as patients with HIV-AIDS or transplant recipients receiving immunosuppressive therapy, causing a range of diseases including certain types of cancer.

Learn More >>

Autoimmune Disorders >>