Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV), the cause of an endothelial tumor, Kaposi sarcoma, hijacks host cellular mechanisms to promote its persistent infection and replication and serves as an excellent model system to generate novel insights into cell biology and cancer. Our research focuses on SOX18, a key transcription factor in lymphatic endothelial cells, which KSHV hijacks to reshape host chromatin and enhance viral replication. This exciting discovery of a novel molecular function for SOX18 as a pioneer factor is distinct from its well-known role in activating gene expression. Using cutting-edge imaging and genomic technologies, we aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind this hijacking, its effects on latent, persistent infection, host 3D chromatin organization, and its role in cancer progression. This work opens new avenues for repurposing SOX18 inhibitors and chromatin-regulating drugs to treat viral infections and virus-induced cancers.

2025

2029