For efficient viral replication, numerous different families of viruses, including Herpesviruses, have evolved the ability to manipulate cellular metabolism. Several Herpesviruses are known to upregulate glucose uptake as well as the progression of glycolysis, a state known as aerobic glycolysis. This state is also a hallmark of many cancers (where it is also known as the Warburg effect), and such metabolic reprogramming may allow for increased cell growth, migration, invasion, and transformation of cancer cells. Aerobic glycolysis is typically accompanied by increased production of lactate, which can also dampen the cellular immune response against viral infection. Our lab is interested in how viruses manipulate glycolysis and the effects of such metabolic reprogramming.
We have new funding to support these studies:
“Epstein-Barr virus upregulates glycolysis to promote viral replication and persistence,” PI, UNCG Internal Funding Program. 1/1/2023 – 6/30/2024
