Scopus Author ID: 8753279700

Metrics for Academic and Research Impact

PhD (Moscow State University)
Postdoc (University of Zurich, University of California San Francisco)

Prof. Peter Lidsky received his MS and PhD training in virology at Moscow State University, where his research focused on virus-host interactions in Picornaviruses. He then transitioned to the University of Zurich to develop tools and probes for fluorescent imaging in the Drosophila model. Finally, at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF), he combined his expertise in virology and genetics to build a versatile research program. Notably, at UCSF, he developed the “pathogen control” hypothesis of aging, which forms the foundation of his current research interests.

• aging
• evolution
• virology
• cellular senescence
• Drosophila

Research Focus

Our research investigates the intricate link between aging and immunity. Recent scientific evidence suggests a deeper-than-previously-thought interaction between inflammation, cellular senescence, systemic aging, and infections. We are developing the pathogen control hypothesis of aging, which aims to explain these interactions from an evolutionary perspective. This hypothesis challenges the mainstream views that consider aging a result of random damage accumulation. On the contrary, we believe aging is an adaptive, programmed process.

Building on the Hypothesis

Our theoretical framework guides experimental work in both Drosophila and mammals. Currently, the lab focuses on the interplay between viruses and senescent cells. While it was known that viruses can induce cellular senescence and that senescent cells can play an anti-viral role, these mechanisms remain poorly understood. We are testing the “immune militia” hypothesis of cellular senescence. In this model, senescent cells act as “militiamen" recruited from other jobs to defend the organism against infections. These cells are resistant to viruses, produce signaling molecules that enhance resistance in other cells, and communicate with immune cells, the “professional soldiers” of the immune system. Since senescent cells can be detrimental if not cleared promptly by the immune system, we are also investigating whether some long-term complications of viral infections can be explained by virus-induced cellular senescence.