MIC3022 - Molecular virology and viral pathogenesis - 2018

The unit will cover molecular aspects of virus replication and introduce students to the mechanisms used by viruses to infect hosts and cause disease. The focus will be on human and animal viruses and will include the most up-to-date research as well as areas of major worldwide concern, such as emerging viral infections. The molecular properties used by different viruses for infection, replication and transmission will be presented. Theory will be underpinned by practical experiments that will provide experience in working with viruses, in addition to a variety of current hierological techniques used in research and diagnostic laboratories.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Develop advanced knowledge of human and animal viruses including their replication and transmission strategies;
2. Explain how viruses interact with target host cells components and defence mechanisms and how this can lead to disease;
3. Describe specific strategies used to limit and control viral infection, persistence and transmission;
4. Demonstrate practical skills and knowledge of molecular virology laboratory techniques;
5. Apply knowledge of molecular virology and viral pathogenesis to critically analyse interpret and discuss experimental data and scientific literature;
6. Develop scientific communication skills, through oral presentations, participation in tutorials and written reports.and submission of laboratory reports.

Mid-semester test (45 mins): 10%

Written theory examination (3 hours): 50% (Hurdle)

Practical class assessment: 40% (Hurdle)

This unit is subject to the Hurdle and Threshold Standards policiesHurdle and Threshold Standards policies (http://www.med.monash.edu.au/policies/assessment-policy-2017.html) of the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences.

Three 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour laboratory class or tutorial presentation per week

See also Unit timetable information

Biochemistry

Microbiology