This $471,159 Project Grant award from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (CFDA 93.855 - Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research) supports research at the University of California, Irvine to elucidate the mechanisms by which alpha herpesviruses, such as herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), invade the peripheral nervous system. The project aims to understand how the response of peripheral nerves to the cytokine interferon lambda affects the transport of viral particles in axons and the establishment of latent versus productive infection in neurons. The researchers will leverage specialized in vitro models and live-cell imaging techniques to provide insights into how the nervous system is protected from viral invasion. This work could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies against alpha herpesvirus infections. The award period is from February 1, 2025 to January 31, 2030.