CAMB 637 Gene Therapy

Spring 2008

Wednesdays 4:30 to 6:30 PM

This seminar course is designed to provide students with a cohesive understanding of virology and immunology of gene therapy. Three major themes will be covered: vectors, vector immunology and gene therapy of genetic and acquired diseases. The topics to be covered are viewed as an extension of topics covered in CAMB 610 (Molecular Basis of Gene Therapy), although CAMB 610 is not an absolute prerequisite for this seminar. Each class will consist of a brief introduction by an instructor, reviewing background information related to the theme discussion. The topics are explored through discussions, led by faculty, of seminal research articles. Students are expected to have thoroughly reviewed the assigned articles and be able to present and discuss various aspects of the papers. Regular attendance and active participation in the discussions, which focus on critical evaluation of experimental design, data presentation and interpretation, is essential. Student evaluation will be based on attendance, preparation and in-class participation. Prerequisite: Background in molecular biology, virology and immunology.  Faculty Instructors: Albelda, Bushman, Chen, Paterson, Riley, Stedman, Weiner, Wilson, Wolfe, and Xiao.

Course Directors:

Youhai H. Chen, M.D., Ph.D.              

713 Stellar-Chance Labs                                             

215-898-4671                                                

yhc@mail.med.upenn.edu

James Riley, Ph.D

535 BRB II/III

215-573-6792

rileyj@mail.med.upenn.edu

Jane M. Glick. Ph.D

652 BRB II/III

215-573-7834

glickj@mail.med.upenn.edu