Contents
The course covers general virological theory, in particular animal viruses, the structure, chemical composition and classification of viruses, virus evolution and genetic stability, the various strategies for controlled viral gene expression, various replication models and mechanisms of spread. Different aspects of viral pathogenesis and antiviral chemotherapy are also included in the course.

Part of the course consists of practical exercises in cell culturing techniques: the establishment of primary cell cultures, culture of continuous cell lines in monolayer and suspension cultures and mycoplasma detection. Practical exercises are also given in propagation, isolation, purification and infectivity titration of viruses. Practice in serological and molecular biological analyses for the structural analysis and detection of viruses as well as virus-specific products and antiviral antibodies is also part of the course.

Practice in giving oral presentations, using computer-based material, is another course element.

Literature
According to a reading list determined by the department. This list will be available at least five weeks before the start of the course.