CD4 Hunter

Name: CD4 Hunter
Author: Drexel University

Drexel University

DOCUMENTED

Published in academic literature

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App Summary

CD4 Hunter is an educational game for biomedical science students that simulates the initial stages of HIV-1 infection, challenging players to control a virion and infect target CD4+ T cells. The app is designed based on the principles of digital game-based learning (DGBL), which the associated research discusses as an alternative tool for teaching complex science in higher education. By immersing users in the viral replication cycle, the game aims to enhance understanding of the key molecules and processes involved in HIV-1 binding and entry.

App Screenshots

Detailed Description

Functionality & Mechanism

Developed at Drexel University College of Medicine, CD4 Hunter is an educational game that simulates the initial stages of HIV-1 infection. The system presents a fast-paced gameplay environment where the player controls an HIV-1 virion. Core mechanics involve navigating a simulated bloodstream to identify and attach to target CD4+ T cells by matching viral gp120 proteins with cell surface receptors (CD4+, CCR5/CXCR4). Gameplay also incorporates immune evasion challenges, requiring players to avoid antibody attacks while attempting to grow the viral population.

Evidence & Research Context

The application leverages principles of digital game-based learning (DGBL) to deliver complex biomedical science content, a pedagogical approach increasingly utilized in higher education.
Game mechanics are designed to directly correspond with four key learning objectives focused on the molecular biology of HIV-1 replication and pathogenesis.
The simulation is grounded in established virological principles, modeling the interaction between HIV-1 gp120 glycoproteins and the CD4+ T cell receptor complex.
This educational tool was developed by subject matter experts in microbiology and immunology to supplement formal science curriculum.

Intended Use & Scope

CD4 Hunter is designed as a supplementary educational tool for students in higher education biomedical science programs. Its primary utility is to reinforce learning about the initial molecular events of HIV-1 infection. The application does not provide comprehensive virology education or clinical guidance and should be used in conjunction with formal academic curricula.

Studies & Publications

1 publication

Peer-reviewed research associated with this app.

Non-Evaluative Reference

Current climate for digital game-based learning of science in further and higher education

Brown et al. (2018) · FEMS Microbiology Letters

Referenced in academic literature; no direct evaluation of the app

Digital game-based learning (DGBL) is being used increasingly as an alternative learning tool to teach science in further and higher education. A variety of digital game formats currently exist for science learning, alongside diverse methods for their implementation and evaluation. This paper aims to provide a broad summary of the field by discussing the current platforms for DGBL and examples of games played on them. These include gamified simulations and traditional digital games delivered through personal computer and online software; mobile games delivered through downloaded applications for devices such as tablets and mobile phones; and educational modifications of commercial games, known amongst gamers as 'mods'. To conclude the summary, the paper discusses the current challenges and barriers associated with DGBL in further and higher science education, and potential strategies researchers may consider to overcome them.

In the Media

How One University is Gamifying Biomedical Education

Drexel University's Sandra Urdaneta-Hartmann developed CD4 Hunter to teach biomedical students about HIV replication cycles, using a mobile game where players roleplay as the virus moving through the bloodstream to identify receptors and infect cells. Urdaneta-Hartmann won a $10,000 grant from Drexel after struggling to find existing science education games that aligned with her department's curriculum, stating "Let's start with something we know well enough, so that's not another hurdle we need to jump." The game launched in June 2017 and represents Drexel's exploration of mobile gaming in biomedical education programs.

EdsurgeRead article

Biomedical researchers try out new mobile game about HIV at Camp Dreamcatcher

Drexel University College of Medicine researchers developed CD4 Hunter to communicate the complex science of HIV and AIDS, with players entering the bloodstream as an HIV particle to hunt and infect CD4 T cells. Postdoctoral fellow Carla Brown explained that "if you've played Candy Crush, you can play this game," noting the game took about a year to design and develop. The interdisciplinary team tested the educational mobile game with children and teens at Camp Dreamcatcher to gather feedback on its effectiveness.

ChestercountyRead article

Biomedical Researchers Design Mobile Game for Teaching About HIV

Drexel University College of Medicine researchers developed CD4 Hunter to teach students about HIV infection by turning players into HIV particles that hunt and infect CD4+ T cells in the bloodstream. "By using digital game-based learning, we are creating a more immersive learning environment," said Sandra Urdaneta-Hartmann, MD, PhD, an assistant professor who directs the Center for Business and Program Development at the Institute for Molecular Medicine and Infectious Disease. The game serves as the first in a planned series of educational mini-games focusing on various pathogens and represents a new digital teaching strategy for the university's eight online master's degree programs.

DrexelRead article

Biomedical Researchers Design Mobile Game for Teaching About HIV

Drexel University College of Medicine researchers developed CD4 Hunter to teach students about HIV replication by turning players into HIV particles that hunt and infect CD4+ T cells in the bloodstream. "By using digital game-based learning, we are creating a more immersive learning environment," said Dr. Sandra Urdaneta-Hartmann, assistant professor and director of the Center for Business and Program Development at the Institute for Molecular Medicine and Infectious Disease. The game is now available on iTunes and Google Play as the first in a planned series of educational mini-games focusing on various pathogens.

DrexelRead article