The Sariyer Lab investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying viral infections of the central nervous system, with a focus on HIV, HSV and JC virus, and their interaction with neurodegenerative diseases and substance abuse, particularly opioid use. We study how these factors disrupt gene regulation especially alternative pre-mRNA splicing and contribute to neuroinflammation, cognitive decline, and neuronal injury, including in Alzheimer’s disease. Using advanced 2D neuronal cultures and 3D cerebral organoids derived from human iPSCs, we model these complex interactions in physiologically relevant systems. We also employ CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to dissect and target key viral and host factors, with the goal of developing novel therapeutic strategies. Our interdisciplinary work bridges neurovirology, addiction biology, and neurodegeneration to address critical challenges in brain health.