We developed the genetics, molecular biology and biochemistry of the L-A dsRNA virus of yeast. In vitro replication, transcription and packaging systems we developed allowed us to define the replication and packaging sites on the RNA and the protein domains involved in these processes. We defined host components controlling translation of the viral mRNA and the viral response to these elements. Our current focus is on the SKI2 system that blocks translation of non-poly(A) mRNAs (such as the viral mRNA).
We have recently presented evidence that yeast carries two prions, called [PSI] and [URE3]. We propose that [PSI] is an altered form of Sup35p while [URE3] is an altered (prion) form of Ure2p. We are developing prion molecular genetics in yeast.