Host Genetic Interactions During Viral Infection: A Systems Virology Approach to Lambda Phage Infection of E. Coli

The complex infection process initiated by the viral genome arises from the interaction of the infectious agent with its host. Understanding this relatively small set of instructions as it interprets and co-opts its host's resources is crucial to addressing the problem of viral infection. Using the fundamental system of lambda phage and E. coli, we investigate the host-viral genetic interactions the disruption of which lead to a reduced infectivity. We gain additional insight into gene roles and interactions by observing population dynamics during infection.