Pernicious Viruses

Dr. Keith R. Jerome is at the forefront of developing gene editing therapies for persistent viral infections. Dr. Jerome's work focuses on finding potential cures for lifelong infections caused by viruses such as HIV, HSV, and hepatitis B, which represent some of the greatest unmet challenges in modern medicine.

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With support from the Tiny Foundation, Dr. Jerome and his team have been advancing their studies on gene editing for HSV infection and investigating the possible link between HSV and the development of Alzheimer's disease. They have demonstrated the effectiveness of gene editing therapies in cell culture systems and animal models, bringing them closer to becoming approved therapies for people infected with these viruses.

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Dr. Jerome is passionate about advocating for the importance of this work and ensuring that people suffering from these viral infections are not forgotten. He believes that gene editing therapies will become a reality and benefit people around the world. Dr. Jerome is committed to moving the science forward and overcoming challenges such as limited grant funding and the lack of recognition of the suffering caused by these viruses.

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One of the most fascinating aspects of Dr. Jerome's research is the ability to modify specific viral DNA sequences in target cells while leaving the host cell largely untouched. He describes this as "molecular surgery" and marvels at the seemingly science-fictional nature of the technology.

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The Tiny Foundation is proud to support Dr. Jerome's visionary work in advancing gene editing therapies for persistent viral infections, which has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of these debilitating diseases and improve the lives of countless individuals worldwide.