Immune control of viral latency and reactivation

Andreas Moosmann’s research group investigates the immune system’s responses to viruses, particularly T cell responses. Widespread viruses such as the Epstein-Barr virus and the cytomegalovirus are at the core of their interest. After infecting healthy individuals, these viruses often remain in the body for a lifetime without causing any damage. Various particular types of T cells keep the viruses in check. However, this balance is not maintained in those with compromised immune systems. The viruses are reactivated from their latent state and patients often fall severely ill. Moosmann and his team investigate these immune processes more closely in order to develop T cell based therapies, both to prevent viral infections and to cure them.