The course is aimed at the acquisition of the theoretical and applicative principles of Virology. The main educational objectives concern the knowledge of: 1) the structure of viral particles and their classification; 2) the mechanisms underlying viral replication; 3) the techniques for studying viruses; 4) antiviral drugs and methods of prevention of viral diseases (vaccines); 5) the mechanisms of interactions between viruses and humans.

Course contents

Introduction to virology.
Outline of the history of virology, structure, classification and evolution of animal viruses. Origin of the virus.
Techniques for the study of viruses: methods of detection, identification and titration of viruses
Viral replication, and effect on the host cell. Pathogenesis of viral infections
Outline of genetics of viruses.
Viral pathogenesis
Virological diagnostics
Outline of immunology
General information on some of the main families of DNA and RNA animal viruses and their importance in human pathology. Emerging viruses.
Notes on vaccines and antiviral therapy

Laboratory exercises related to the detection of viruses in biological samples (optional).

Knowledge and understanding - Students will have to demonstrate that they have acquired the theoretical and practical knowledge of the methodological and instrumental procedures for the identification of etiological agents and for the diagnosis of infection in humans

Applying knowledge and understanding - Students will have to demonstrate that they have mastered the methodologies covered during the course and to develop and to evaluate their use in an experimental context and / or approach for the diagnosis of infection

Indipendence of judgment - Students must be able to autonomously elaborate the results obtained in the diagnostic experimental phase on the basis of the knowledge gained with the lectures.

Communicative skills - The student will have to acquire an adequate scientific language property and the ability to explain in an exhaustive manner the acquired knowledge as well as to know how to interface with the future professional roles (researchers, students, health care workers).

Learning ability - Students must demonstrate that they have the ability to independently find the scientific publications related to the course, and the ability to participate, using the knowledge gained in the course, in continuous updating initiatives in the professional field.

The teaching material prepared by the lecturer in addition to recommended textbooks (such as for instance slides, lecture notes, exercises, bibliography) and communications from the lecturer specific to the course can be found inside the Moodle platform › blended.uniurb.it

Teaching material and teacher messages are available,in the Moodle platform › blended.uniurb.it 

Teaching

Lectures and hands-on lab experiences

Attendance

Attendance at hands-on laboratory experiences is suggested

Course books

Antonelli, Clementi. Virologia Medica. Casa Editrice Ambrosiana.

•Dimmock, Easton, Leppard. Introduzione alla Virologia Moderna. Casa Editrice Ambrosiana.

Assessment

The assessment of learning includes a written test, i.e. multiple choice test andn(open) questions relating to topics covered during lectures and laboratory exercises to be analyzed either with a short description or with more elaborate answers.

The written test will be judged with a mark out of thirty.

Disability and Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)

Students who have registered their disability certification or SLD certification with the Inclusion and Right to Study Office can request to use conceptual maps (for keywords) during exams.

To this end, it is necessary to send the maps, two weeks before the exam date, to the course instructor, who will verify their compliance with the university guidelines and may request modifications.

Teaching

Lectures and hands-on lab experiences

Attendance

Attendance at hands-on laboratory experiences is suggested

Course books

•Antonelli, Clementi. Virologia Medica. Casa Editrice Ambrosiana.

•Dimmock, Easton, Leppard. Introduzione alla Virologia Moderna. Casa Editrice Ambrosiana.

Assessment

The assessment of learning includes a written test, i.e. multiple choice test andn(open) questions relating to topics covered during lectures and laboratory exercises to be analyzed either with a short description or with more elaborate answers.

The written test will be judged with a mark out of thirty.

Disability and Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)

Students who have registered their disability certification or SLD certification with the Inclusion and Right to Study Office can request to use conceptual maps (for keywords) during exams.

To this end, it is necessary to send the maps, two weeks before the exam date, to the course instructor, who will verify their compliance with the university guidelines and may request modifications.