BSE and vCJD: their biology and management

Although it peaked several years ago, the topic is still of great medical significance, influencing the way the public thinks about and experiences science and scientists. All of which is touched upon in in this free course, BSE and vCJD: their biology and management.

Course learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the way that prion molecules cause diseases such as BSE and vCJD, and how the key discoveries about prions were made
• Demonstrate knowledge of the patterns of BSE and vCJD in populations, and how this information is used to predict the number of cases there may be in future (and to assess the accuracy and precision of such predictions)
• Demonstrate knowledge of how science can make important contributions to managing episodes such as BSE/vCJD, and how important insights are gained from disciplines outside the natural sciences and also members of the general public, including farmers and consumers of beef-related products.