Concepts in Virology

Catalog description

The objective of the Concepts in Virology course is to describe the lifecycle of representative RNA and DNA viruses and the relationship between the virus and the host at the molecular level. Emphasis is placed on developing an understanding of the experimental systems used to elucidate individual steps in virus lifecycles and interactions with the host cells. Host cell-virus interactions leading to the production of progeny virus and interactions involved in establishing and maintaining long term interactions, such as latency and effects on cell growth, are discussed in detail. While some didactic lectures are provided, reading and discussion of the primary scientific literature is an integral component of the course. Students will gain a comprehensive view of the interaction between a virus and its host at the molecular level. In addition, students will gain an understanding of the experimental systems used to elucidate steps in the virus lifecycle.