Introductory description

The SARS CoV2 pandemic has enhanced the need for true molecular understanding of both viral life cycles, viral immune responses, how viruses evade these responses, and ultimately how we can apply cutting edge techniques to develop therapeutic strategies to prevent current and future pandemics. This module builds on the sound immunological and viral understanding provided in LF264 (Immunology) and LF213 (Virology) to produce a case-based module that focuses in detail on individual viruses.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Indicative content:

Case studies focusing on around 5 viruses will be covered throughout the module, some examples are: HSV, HIV, Sars-CoV-2, HSV and Ebola.
Advanced immunology topics will be discussed, both innate and adaptive responses, as well as viral evasion strategies.

Each case study will include:

1. Molecular understanding of the virus
2. Advanced Immunology
3. Vaccine or anti-viral therapies
   and
4. Further immunology lecture
   OR
   4.Interactive workshop on topics such as ethics and vaccine design

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Describe the molecular mechanisms underlying viral replication.
• Explain the immune responses that target viral infections.
• Analyse the strategies viruses use to evade the immune system.
• Identify molecular targets for the development of antiviral therapies.
• Discuss the processes involved in the development of vaccines.
• Evaluate the epidemiological factors of viral pandemics and the public health measures used to control them.

Subject specific skills

1. Describe the molecular mechanisms underlying viral replication.
2. Explain the immune responses that target viral infections.
3. Analyse the strategies viruses use to evade the immune system.
4. Identify molecular targets for the development of antiviral therapies.
5. Discuss the processes involved in the development of vaccines.
6. Evaluate the epidemiological factors of viral pandemics and the public health measures used to control them.

Transferable skills

1. Scientific writing
2. Critical review of primary scientific research
3. Lateral thinking
4. Professionalism
5. Information literacy
6. Digital literacy
7. Problem Solving
8. Communication