Structure and function of gK

Alphaherpesviruses are a subfamily of herpesviruses that include the significant human pathogens herpes simplex viruses (HSV). HSV-1 glycoprotein K (gK) is a multi-membrane spanning virion glycoprotein essential for virus entry into neuronal axons, virion assembly, and pathogenesis. However, little is known about which gK domains and residues are most important for maintaining these functions across all alphaherpesviruses. We collaborate with Gus Kousoulas to elucidate the important structural features of gK that are involved in gK-mediated regulation of virus-induced membrane fusion. A greater understanding of mechanisms governing alphaherpesvirus membrane fusion is expected to inform the rational design of therapeutic and prevention strategies to combat herpesviral infection and pathogenesis.