However, the early optimism concerning the prospects for an effective AIDS vaccine has now waned and HIV strains that are resistant to drug therapies are common. We are now more than a decade into the AIDS pandemic and the World Health Organization estimates that there are now 59 million HIV-infected persons worldwide. We examine the molecular biology of the HIV virus, the molecular targets of anti-HIV drugs, and the prospects for a cure. We also discuss both old and new methods of vaccine development and the prospects for making an effective AIDS vaccine. This course is designed for the non-science major who does not intend to pursue a career in the natural sciences.
Evaluation is based on problem sets, two hour tests, quizzes, and a final exam.