Viral Oncology (2622)

The headline doc.dr.sc. Vjekoslav Tomaić, senior. zn. Associate

Ruđer Boskovic Institute

To know viruses as causative agents of cancer with special emphasis on human papillomaviruses (HPV), which cause about 5% of cancers in different anatomical areas in humans.

Students will learn about the organization of the HPV viral genome, the life cycle of the virus (from infection to the onset of malignancy), viral interactions with the host's immune system (methods of avoiding the immune system), viral oncogenes and their role in viral-caused malignancies, and how we can use viral oncogenes as a tool for human cancer research.

The course will begin with lectures through which students will be familiar with the above topic. As part of the practice, students will perform a method of ectopic expression of viral oncogenes in the epithelial cells of man, and determine the level of protein decomposition of tumor suppressants in the presence of viral oncoproteins. Upon completion of laboratory exercises, students will prepare and present a report on the methods carried out and the results obtained.

1. Explain some of the main human small DNA tumor viruses and their role in the development of malignancy in different anatomical areas.
2. Identify the most important aspects of human papillomavirus (HPV) and how the collapse of the productive life cycle of the virus can lead to malignancy.
3. Compare high-risk, low-risk and leather hpv types.
4. Explain the differences in the occurrence of a virally caused malignant transformation depending on the anatomical area.
5. Provide for HPV prevention procedures with biomarkers, disease treatment and prophylactic vaccines.
6. To determine the techniques of molecular biology and biochemistry necessary for work in the laboratory related to this issue.

Attendance at lectures, seminars, active work in the laboratory and presented final report.

1. Lectures (presentations) and scripts for practicum
2. Scientific and review papers

1. Knipe DM and Howley PM. Fields Virology. 6th Edition, 2013, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

The success of the course will be evaluated annually by the joint expert committee of the Ruđer Boskovic Institute, the University of Dubrovnik and the University of Josip Juraj Strossmayer in Osijek based on exam success and surveys.