The Mouse Genetics Laboratory uses the mouse as a mammalian model to decipher the genetic control of complex traits which result from interactions between multiple genes and non-genetic factors. Our approach is to take advantage of the genetic variation present in the Collaborative Cross, a collection of mouse strains derived from intersubspecific crosses which genetic diversity matches that of the human population We combine in vitro and in vivo strategies to identify susceptibility genes and analyze their function.
Our main focus is the genetic control of the susceptibility to infectious diseases, in particular to life-threatening emerging pathogens. Our current interests are in Zika virus and SARS-CoV-2.
We are also interested in host genetic factors affecting the serological response to vaccines using the seasonal influenza vaccine as a paradigm.
