Topic 9: Viral Genetics and Evolution

A. VIDEOS 

1. Introduction to viruses and viral genetics
2. Genomes and Genetics
3. Viral genetics
4. Evolution of a viral genome
5. Evolution (Lecture)
6. Emerging Viruses
7. Influenza evolution and genetic shift

B. LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this topic, learners should be able to:

1. Describe the genetic organization of viruses and explain how it differs from that of cellular organisms.

2. Explain mechanisms of genetic variation in viruses, including mutation, recombination, and reassortment.

3. Analyze factors influencing viral mutation rates and their impact on viral diversity.

4. Differentiate antigenic drift and antigenic shift and relate them to viral evolution.

5. Explain the role of viral genetics in host adaptation, virulence, and immune escape.

6. Interpret genetic and molecular data used to study viral evolution.

7. Evaluate the implications of viral evolution for vaccine development, antiviral resistance, and disease control.

8. Apply principles of viral genetics and evolution to emerging and re-emerging viral diseases.

9. Assess the role of viral evolution in zoonotic transmission and cross-species infections.

10. Demonstrate understanding of viral evolution in veterinary, public health, and biotechnological contexts.

C. SUBTOPICS/LESSONS

1. Lesson 1: Viral genetics
2. Lesson 2: Viral evolution
3. Lesson 3: Viral mutation and variation

D. STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Study questions