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Reuben Harris seeks to understand how DNA-mutating enzymes (APOBECs) provide immunity against viral infections, yet also contribute to tumor evolution through genomic DNA mutagenesis. Harris and his team are studying the mechanistic interplay between cellular APOBEC enzymes and multiple viruses, including retroviruses, herpesviruses, and small DNA tumor viruses. They are also investigating the contribution of APOBECs to cancer progression and tumor evolution, from the initial stages of transformation to the later stages of metastasis and therapy resistance. The team also aims to translate its fundamental discoveries into novel therapeutics against viruses and cancer.