Isha Soni L&S Biological Sciences
Characterizing the Protein ORF31 in Kaposi’s Sarcoma Herpesvirus
My project is focused on characterizing the structure and function of ORF31, a protein involved in late gene expression of Kaposi’s Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus (KSHV). This project is one part of the Glaunsinger lab’s overall goal to characterize the structure and function of every protein within a viral complex that is essential for KSHV infectivity and late gene expression during infection. ORF31 is one protein that makes up this complex, but its structure and function are currently unknown. My research provides insight into KSHV’s replication cycle and paves the way for future therapeutic treatments.
Message To Sponsor
Thank you for your generosity! This grant allows me to focus on my research full-time over the summer and it has given me the confidence to continue to pursue a career in research science. It's wonderful to know that someone believes in my potential as a researcher, and I hope to use this grant to make a real impact.
Major: Molecular and Cellular Biology (with an emphasis in Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Structural Biology) and Physics
Mentor: Britt Glaunsinger
Sponsor: Fruewirth Fund