Abigail L. Whitford

Interferon Dependent Immune Memory during HSV-1 Neuronal Latency Results in Increased H3K9me3 and Restriction of Reactivation by ATRX

This study shows that interferon-induced H3K9me3 and ATRX restrict HSV-1 reactivation by maintaining epigenetic memory during neuronal latency.

Co-option of mitochondrial nucleic acid sensing pathways by HSV-1 UL12.5 for reactivation from latent Infection

This study shows HSV-1 UL12.5 promotes reactivation by inducing mitochondrial nucleic acid sensing, which activates innate immune pathways and supports lytic gene expression during latency exit.

Physiological oxygen concentration during sympathetic primary neuron culture improves neuronal health and reduces HSV-1 reactivation

This study shows that culturing primary neurons at physiological oxygen levels (5%) improves neuronal health and reduces HSV-1 reactivation without affecting latency establishment.