Gene Therapy: Vectors, Immunology, and Disease

Catalog description

This seminar course is designed to provide students with a cohesive understanding of virology and immunology of gene therapy. Three major themes will be covered: vectors, vector immunology and gene therapy of genetic and acquired diseases. The topics to be covered are viewed as an extension of topics covered in CAMB 6100 (Molecular Basis of Gene Therapy), although CAMB 6100 is not an absolute prerequisite for this seminar. Each class will consist of a brief introduction by an instructor, reviewing background information related to the theme discussion. The topics are explored through discussions, led by assigned students, of seminal research articles. Students are expected to have thoroughly reviewed the assigned articles and be able to present and discuss various aspects of the papers. Regular attendance and active participation in the discussions, which focus on critical evaluation of experimental design, data presentation and interpretation, is essential. Student evaluation will be based on attendance, in-class presentation (for 50% of the letter grade), and a take-home exam (for another 50% of the grade). Prerequisite: BGS Students only