AM3M72: Bacterial pathogenicity

Module Provider:

AMS

Number of credits:

10 [5 ECTS credits]

Level:

H (Honours)

Terms in which taught:

Autumn

Module Convenor:

Dr S MacIntyre

Pre-requisites:

AM1M12 and AM2Z35

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Module version for:

2007/8

Aims:
This module aims to provide students with an understanding of key factors involved in bacterial pathogenesis. Using selected examples of human and animal pathogens, both the disease and molecular basis of pathogenesis will be considered.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the course students will be able to:

Additional outcomes:
Students should improve their presentation and literature research skills.

Outline content:
A lecture series will cover the basic principles of bacterial pathogenesis at the molecular level. Association of bacteria with the host will be addressed. The role and properties of major virulence associated attributes (toxins, adhesins, factors involved in evasion of the host defense system and invasion) will be discussed in detail. Pathogenesis of selected human and animal pathogens will be presented and approaches to vaccine development discussed. The second part of this module is a series of tutorials and student presentations involving guided reading and covering topics of current importance to bacterial pathogenesis.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures, student seminars and directed reading

Contact hours:

Assessment:
Coursework
1 written assignment (50 %), 1 oral presentation (50 %)
Relative percentage of coursework: 30%
Penalties for late submission
In accordance with University policy.

Examinations
2 hr exam, 2 questions out of 4. Final examination, May

Requirements for a pass
An overall mark of at least 40 %

Reassessment arrangements
Re-sit examination, if necessary, to take place in August/September.