Sydni Caet Smith

Research: Mechanisms by which viruses of the Reoviridae family acquire genetic diversity and interact with the host to mediate infection

Extracellular vesicles, including exosomes and ectosomes, are used for intercellular communication and cargo transfer, including modulation of inflammation and immunity. Apoptotic bodies are used to systematically clear dead cell debris. A small but growing body of research suggests several viruses are transmitted in extracellular vesicles, which may enable immune evasion and multi-particle transmission. In the Ogden lab, we study mechanisms by which viruses of the Reoviridae family acquire genetic diversity and interact with the host to mediate infection. We have previously observed reovirus release in extracellular vesicles similar in size to ectosomes or apoptotic bodies. We hypothesize that reovirus transmission in extracellular vesicles promotes genetic complementation by enabling simultaneous multi-particle infection of target cells. For my thesis project, I will determine (1) the origin of reovirus-containing vesicles released from infected cells and (2) effects of vesicle-contained virus release on genetic complementation in vitro.

Mentor: Kristen M. Ogden, Ph.D.