Receptors

The Nelli Laboratory investigates host cell receptors that govern viral attachment, entry, replication, and transmission in livestock, wildlife, companion animals, and humans. Our research has pioneered the mapping of influenza virus sialic acid receptors and the characterization of coronavirus receptor expression across respiratory, intestinal, and mammary tissues using advanced imaging and molecular approaches. By defining the cellular landscapes that enable viral infection, we provide critical insights into host susceptibility, tissue tropism, cross-species transmission, and zoonotic spillover.