Challenges and perspectives in research and teaching of host pathogen interaction topics. New post-pandemic times to Brazil and other South American countries

Abstract

Here is our proposal to improve learning in biomedical sciences for graduate and undergraduate courses with a broad vision integrating disciplines such as molecular cell biology, biochemistry, and biophysics around concepts of pathogen interaction within vertebrate and invertebrate hosts. Our paradigm is based on the possibility offered by the pandemic to have remote activities giving access to students and researchers from different places in Latin American countries to discuss science. A multidisciplinary concept of host-pathogen interaction allows us to understand better the mechanisms involved in the pathology of diseases, as well as to formulate broad strategies for the diagnosis, treatment, and control of diseases. The idea of integrating heterogeneous groups in science goes through the critical analysis of resource distribution in national science, where only some have the possibilities to carry out a competitive science. Solid theoretical training, contact, collaboration with groups of excellence, and training of a multidisciplinary work network are our proposals for a permanent platform of scientific strengthening and dissemination for Latin America. Here we will review the concept of host-pathogen interaction, the type of institutions where it is taught and researched, new trends in active teaching methodologies, and the current political context in science.