BIOL 255 - Viruses: friends or foes?

Viruses are the ultimate parasites-they hijack the molecular machinery of their host to make more copies of themselves. There are viruses that infect nearly every type of life, from bacteria to beluga whales and even other viruses! Through lectures and in-class reading of current research articles, and in-class discussion this class will explore the amazing biology of viruses, their impact on society and our planet, and several controversial topics relevant to viruses: the growing anti-vaccination movement, research on the evolution of more virulent avian flu viruses, and virus-derived genome editing technologies (e.g. CRISPR). Students will also give a final project presentation on a particular virus of their choosing.

 

Prerequisites: BIOL 109  

Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every fall