Learning objectives
The first objective of the Microbiology course is to enable the acquisition of knowledge and understanding about the basics of microbiology (bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses; host-pathogen interactions and pathogenesis of infectious diseases; mechanisms of action and use of common antimicrobial and antiviral agents and host immune response to infectious agents). A further objective is to provide the ability to apply in occupational contexts the knowledge and understanding acquired in the field of Microbiology and the required communication skills.
Prerequisites
Getting through Animal Biology - Plant Biology
Course unit content
The course includes, after the presentation and a brief introduction to Microbiology, the treatment of aspects related to: general characters and genetics of microorganisms and viruses, microbial metabolism and cultivation of microorganisms and viruses, host-parasite relationships in infection and infectious disease (pathogenicity and virulence), general information on the main infectious diseases, antimicrobial and antiviral drugs and related mechanisms of resistance. In vitro susceptibility assays of microorganisms and viruses to anti-infective agents. Infection and immunity. Microbial and viral strategies to escape host immune system. Criteria of direct and indirect microbiological diagnosis. Pharmaceutical microbiology. Pharmaceutical biotechnology: pharmaceutical products and recombinant DNA technology.
Full programme
Origins and evolution of microorganisms and Microbiology
The different fields of microbiology
Microscopic observation of microorganisms and viruses
Classification of microorganisms and viruses
Structure and functions of prokaryotic cell
Microbial growth and metabolism
Microbial cultivation
Methods for microbial count
Microbial genetics
Host-pathogen interactions
Normal flora of humans
Microbial pathogenicity and potential virulence factors
Fungi
Protozoa
Parasitic worms (helminths)
Viruses
Viroids and prions
Infection and immunity
Microbial and viral strategies to escape host immune system
Laboratory diagnosis of infectious diseases
Antibiotics and synthetic antimicrobial and antiviral agents
Common infectious diseases
Pharmaceutical microbiology
Pharmaceutical biotechnology: pharmaceutical products and recombinant DNA technology
Bibliography
Visual aids made available online available on the Elly platform.
N. CARLONE. "Microbiologia Farmaceutica", Società Editrice EdiSES, Napoli.
M. LA PLACA. "Principi di Microbiologia Medica", Società Editrice Esculapio, Bologna.
Teaching methods
The arguments regarding the course content will be presented and discussed through lectures, with the aid of iconographic material collected in PowerPoint files that, at the end of the course, will be made available to students. Lectures will present the main conceptual frame of each subject, summoning questions or doubts from the audience.
Assessment methods and criteria
Learning outcomes will be verified through an oral examination. No interim evaluation is programmed. Questions on the topics relating to the course content will be used to test the student’s knowledge and understanding in the field, and her/his ability to apply the knowledge and understanding in occupational contexts. Failure to answer to one question, or proven inability to demonstrate at least a basic knowledge on the subject, will prevent the successful completion of the exam. Upon successful completion of the examination, a grade (maximum 30, minimum 18) will be attributed according to the degree of achievement of the objectives (excellent, good, fair, fully sufficient, barely sufficient). Honors will be reserved to students demonstrating particular communication skills and independent learning ability. Students with Learning Disabilities/Special Educational Needs must first contact the "Centro di Accoglienza e Inclusione" of the University of Parma (cai@unipr.it).
Other information
The teacher is available for further explanations in office or by distance via Teams after e-mail appointment, or via chat on Elly platform.
2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
This course contributes to the achievement of the goals of U.N. 2030
Agenda for Sustainable Development
3. Good Health and well-being
4. Quality education
