Aim
To illustrate retrovirus-host interactions in mammals at the level of the cell and the organism, as well as at the molecular level.
Content
In class, the various steps of the retroviral life cycle will be discussed, with emphasis on retrovirus as an important tool for providing knowledge of the normal regulatory functions in the host organism. Then we will be looking at examples of retrovirus disturbing normal functions in the host. It will be discussed how retrovirus cause diseases in animals and humans, and, furthermore, how they may interfere with the function of an individual cell or of an individual gene in the host cell. Finally, we will refer to evolutionary aspects and look at the biotechnologically perspectives of retrovirus research.
The course will be dealing with the following 11 subjects:
1) Introduction to the molecular biology of retrovirus.
2) Early steps in virus infection; the interaction between virus and receptor proteins at the cell surface.
3) Formation of virus-specific DNA by reverse transcription and integration of virus DNA into host cell chromosomal DNA.
4) Transcription of virus RNA.
5) Processing of viral RNA.
6) Translation and processing of viral proteins; packaging of virus particles.
7) Retroviral vectors.
8) Retroviruses and cancer.
9) Evolution of retrovirus and retro elements.
10) Retrovirale vectors and gene therapy.
9) Various models for retrovirus pathogenesis.
10) Virus-encoded trans-factors; human retroviruses.
11) Medical and biotechological perspectives of retrovirus research.
Form and extent: Three adjoining lessons a week for 10 weeks consisting of two hours of group discussion and a one-hour lecture which will introduce the subject of the following week.
Compulsory programme: The whole course.
Qualifications: The course is offered to students who have completed three years of study in biology or molecular biology.
Text-books
Original literature (will be handed out in January or at the beginning of the course).
Evaluation
Passing is based upon at least 80% registered attendance and on participation in group discussions.
ECTS-credits
5
Semester
Fall