Date: 30 November 2023 (Thursday)

Time: 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Venue: Cheung Kung Hai Lecture Theatre 3&4, G/F, William M.W. Mong Block, 21 Sassoon Road

5:00 p.m.

Presenter: Cheuk Chun HO (MPhil candidate)
Primary Supervisor: Prof. Stephanie MA
Presentation Title: Exploring the pedagogical benefits of preclinical education using VR/AR technology in a classroom setting
Abstract: For this study, we developed a task-oriented virtual reality (VR) platform for teaching biomolecular structures to Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences students. The effectiveness of this VR practical session was assessed through three different studies: pre-tests, post-tests, and a survey. The largest of the three studies had 80 students participating. The results showed that 52% of the participants improved their performance after the VR session, while 20% maintained their scores. Additionally, participants rated their learning experience and the additional support for learning at an average of 6.07 and 5.93 on a 7-point Likert scale respectively. This suggests that implementing VR practical sessions can enhance students' understanding of biomolecular structures and overall learning experience.

5:30 p.m.

Presenter: Siu Ming HO (MPhil candidate)
Primary Supervisor: Dr. Chi Ping CHAN
Presentation Title: Roles of PACT in sensing influenza A virus short immunostimulatory RNA
Abstract: Influenza A virus (IAV) poses a significant global public health threat, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the virus-host immune system interplay to develop effective prevention and intervention strategies. This study aims to investigate the pivotal roles of the double-stranded RNA-binding protein PACT in sensing short immunostimulatory RNAs (mvRNAs) during IAV infection. Our functional assay data support the crucial involvement of PACT in RIG-I-mediated mvRNA sensing. Mechanistic studies are employed to gain insights into PACT's facilitation of RIG-I-mediated mvRNA sensing and interferon responses. The outcomes of this research project will address the current knowledge gap surrounding PACT's contribution to mvRNA recognition during IAV infection. This newfound knowledge holds significant implications for the development of strategies aimed at mitigating IAV pathogenicity and severity. Ultimately, this study seeks to enhance our understanding of host-virus interactions and provide valuable insights for the prevention and intervention of IAV diseases.

ALL ARE WELCOME

Should you have any enquiries, please feel free to contact Jerry Siu at 3917 6912.