Laboratory of Functional Viromics

Lots of viruses have been discovered, most have not really been studied. The laboratory of functional viromics (LoFV) at Washington State University bridges the gap between sequencing and laboratory experiments. Using a powerful combination of synthetic biology, protein engineering, and computational strategies, we illuminate the functions of elusive, never-before isolated viruses, asking fundamental questions about their potential to infect humans and animals we interact with. Our unique CoVaType platforms enable us to probe the intricacies of viral entry for multiple viruses in parallel and at unprecedented scale. As we build on our knowledge of viral entry, we are also forming collaborations to build new computational models from our datasets and preemptively address zoonotic threats through the development of antivirals and vaccines. Our big vision aims to understand the possible threats of tomorrow, today.