Our long-term aim is to provide an in-depth understanding of the relationship between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human disease as a basis of formulating an intervention strategy. Compelling evidence has demonstrated that EBV persists for life following primary infection and is controlled by EBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Disruption of this delicate balance between virus and host results in an expansion of virus-infected cells which may contribute to a spectrum of clinical disorders including malignancy. The theme of this proposal is to exploit our expertise in the mapping of CTL epitopes and in EBV strain variation to establish a frame of reference to developing a vaccine capable of preventing EBV-associated diseases. Specifically, we propose to: (1)identify the dominant and secondary EBV CTL epitopes using procedures already in use in our laboratories. The techniques involved include T-cell colony formation, Cr release assay, site directed mutagenesis and gene targeting of proteins in transformation and T-cell recognition. (2)determine the extent of EBV strain variation, in particular the variation associated with CTL epitopes. (3)to define the importance of CTL epitopes in the recognition of associated tumors.
Showing the most recent 10 out of 34 publications