We have been able to find how the IRES bound interacts with eIF3, and we've been able to generate how the eIF3 functions. We want higher resolutions, and look at larger complexes. Right now, our resolution is limited.

What we were able to do is compare the binding site of both the viral RNA and the cells' cap binding protein on a factor that is common to both mechanisms in eIF3. The binding cap is one of the complexes required by the cell, but not required by the virus. For translations, this cup binding protein has to interact with the eIF3.

We are gaining information on the differences and similarities between viral mechanisms and eukaryotic mechanisms. Getting to the molecular details of these gets to the possibility of learning one mechanism versus the other so you can try and stop (the virus from attacking) the human cell.

We don't force crystallization. We try to in vitro reproduce activity within the cell.

The virus is able to overcome the requirement for a large number of cellular factors.

Of course. This is part and parcel of being a Latino and having the responsibility to safeguard our community. The more visible ones have to take a stand. They can't always be safe.