Elective course in MSc Life Science and Technology and MSc Chemistry
Admission requirements
BSc in LST, MST, BFW, or Biology. Students must have followed the course Molecular Genetics I or a similar course dealing with basic aspects of replication, transcription and translation, DNA, RNA and protein structure.
Description
The course deals with the fundamental aspects of virus replication with emphasis on RNA viruses. Topics addressed include discovery and classification of viruses, virus structure, viral entry pathways, translation and replication strategies, encapsidation, egress and evolution. These topics are illustrated by examples of HIV, influenza virus, coronavirus, poliovirus, plant viruses and bacterial viruses. Anti-viral strategies and applications are also discussed. First part of the course deals with lectures on the important steps in the viral life cycle and is concluded by the writing of an essay about one virus. The second part discusses several viruses in more detail including ways to study their replication and evolution. This part is concluded by three assignments dealing with the effect of a mutation on the replication of three viruses from diverse backgrounds.
At the end of the course students:
will have knowledge of fundamental principles of virology
know the basis of virus classification and be able to sketch the important steps in the viral life cycle.
can deduce of symmetry number of virus particles.
understand the various tricks that viruses use to express their genes.
know how to study and manipulate RNA viruses.
know how to tackle and interfere with viral replication.
will be able to predict the effect of certain mutations on the replication of a virus and how to test this prediction experimentally.
will be able to digest scientific papers on the topic of viruses and write a summary or essay.
Language
English
Mode of instruction
Lectures
Timetable
Schedule information can be found on the website of the programmes.
Examination
Writing of a mini-review devoted to one single virus addressing all the steps in its life cycle (50%) and assignments on three other viruses (50%).
Blackboard
Powerpoint presentation is posted on Blackboard after each lecture.
Reading list
Principles of Virology: Molecular Biology, Pathogenesis, and Control of Animal Viruses, 2nd Edition. S. J. Flint, L. W. Enquist, V. R. Racaniello, A. M. Skalka.
Registration
Register for this course via uSis
Contact information
Information about the Lecturer