BMIS 317

This introductory virology course will explore the basic concepts about the biology of viruses with special focus on human viral pathogens. The major scientific milestones in the field of virology and the common themes in the replication cycle of major groups of viruses will be discussed. The topics covered include virus entry into cells, replication, production of infectious particles and transmission between host organisms, host-virus interactions, host antiviral immune responses, viral countermeasures to host defenses, vector transmission of viruses, vaccines, antivirals, viral diagnostics, surveillance, viral vectors, oncolytic viruses, techniques used to study viruses etc. Additionally, selected major human viral diseases and the biology of the associated viruses will be discussed in detail.