Content (Syllabus outline)
Basic concepts of viruses with the emphasis on virus structural properties and particular components (proteins). Nomenclature and classification of viruses. Virus life cycle: to lay great stress on virus attachment to the host cells, virus entry into cells, genome replication, mechanism of translation, virion assembly, exit, and maturation of progeny viruses. Viral genetics. Basic concepts of viral pathogenesis. Viral transformation and oncogenesis. Immune response to viral infection. Vaccines, antivirals and immune sera. Review of important DNA and RNA virus families, plant viruses, prions and bacteriophages. Direct and indirect classical and molecular techniques used to study viruses or their application for diagnostic purposes.
Prerequisites
a) Enrolment in the 2nd year of Microbiology BSc program.
b) Passing grade in seminar and laboratory course to enter the final written exam.