Arne Stenlund

Arne Stenlund and colleagues have obtained a detailed understanding of processes required for initiation of DNA replication from the papillomavirus, using this system to gain a general biochemical understanding applicable in other systems. Papillomaviruses are a large viral family that induces cell proliferation at the site of infection, usually giving rise to benign tumors. But certain types of human papillomaviruses (HPVs) generate tumors that progress toward malignancy. Among these are HPVs that cause most cervical cancers. Members of the Stenlund lab also pursue studies aimed at developing an effective small-molecule inhibitor of HPVs that might someday be used by women who do not receive the preventive anti-HPV vaccine now available or those already infected with HPV who would not be helped by the vaccine.