Course Overview

Introduction to Microbiology

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of microbiology, focusing on the structure, function, classification, and roles of microorganisms. It emphasizes the importance of microorganisms in health, disease, and the environment, and covers essential concepts such as microbial genetics, taxonomy, epidemiology, and immunology.

• Instructor: Dr. Isdee Chola Shampuka

• Class Schedule: Tuesdays, 11:30 – 12:30

• Location: Ganong Hall 215

• Office Hours: Tuesdays, 11:30 – 12:30 (Irving Hall Room 323)

Course Objectives

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Describe the scope, history, and applications of microbiology.

• Explain the principles of microbial classification and taxonomy.

• Describe the methods of microbial identification, including biochemical and molecular techniques.

• Discuss the principles of microbial metabolism and physiology.

• Explain the mechanisms of microbial interactions, including symbiosis and pathogenesis.

• Describe the principles of microbial genetics and antimicrobial agents.

• Explain and differentiate between innate and adaptive immunity.

• Understand epidemiological principles and their application to infectious diseases.

Course Schedule

Weekly Topics and Readings

The following table outlines the weekly topics, concepts, and recommended readings for the course.

Course Evaluation

Assessment Methods and Weighting

Grading Scheme

Note: A grade of C or better is required to pass nursing & health science courses.

Key Microbiology Topics Covered

Microbial World and Classification

Microbiology studies microscopic organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Classification is based on cellular structure, metabolism, and genetic characteristics.

• Prokaryotes vs. Eukaryotes: Prokaryotes lack a nucleus (e.g., Bacteria), while eukaryotes have a nucleus (e.g., Fungi, Protozoa).

• Taxonomy: The science of classifying organisms. Includes hierarchical levels: Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species.

• Example: Escherichia coli is a prokaryotic bacterium classified under Domain Bacteria.

Microbial Anatomy and Physiology

Understanding the structure and function of microbial cells is essential for identifying and controlling microorganisms.

• Cell Wall: Provides shape and protection; composition varies between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

• Organelles: Eukaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles; prokaryotes do not.

• Example: Gram staining differentiates bacteria based on cell wall structure.

Microbial Genetics

Microbial genetics explores how microorganisms inherit and express genetic information.

• DNA Replication: The process by which cells copy their genetic material.

• Gene Expression: Involves transcription and translation to produce proteins.

• Example: Plasmids in bacteria can carry antibiotic resistance genes.

Microbial Metabolism

Microbial metabolism refers to the chemical reactions that occur within microorganisms to sustain life.

• Catabolism: Breakdown of molecules to release energy.

• Anabolism: Synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones.

• Equation:

Microbial Growth

Microbial growth involves the increase in cell number and biomass.

• Binary Fission: Most bacteria reproduce by splitting into two identical cells.

• Growth Curve: Includes lag, log, stationary, and death phases.

• Equation: (where is the final cell number, is the initial cell number, and is the number of generations)

Antimicrobial Agents

Antimicrobial agents are substances that kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms.

• Antibiotics: Target specific bacterial processes (e.g., cell wall synthesis).

• Resistance: Microorganisms can develop resistance through genetic mutations or acquiring resistance genes.

• Example: Penicillin inhibits peptidoglycan synthesis in bacterial cell walls.

Immunology

Immunology studies the body's defense mechanisms against infectious agents.

• Innate Immunity: Non-specific, immediate defense (e.g., skin, phagocytes).

• Adaptive Immunity: Specific, acquired defense (e.g., antibodies, T cells).

• Example: Vaccination stimulates adaptive immunity to prevent disease.

Epidemiology

Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of diseases in populations.

• Incidence: Number of new cases in a population over a period.

• Prevalence: Total number of cases in a population at a given time.

• Equation:

Course Policies and Support

Attendance and Assignments

• Regular attendance is required; missing classes may affect grades.

• Assignments must be submitted on time; late submissions require prior arrangement.

Academic Integrity

• Plagiarism and other academic offenses are strictly prohibited.

• Proper citation and referencing are required for all assignments.

Support Services

• Library resources, technical support, and accessibility services are available to all students.

• Contact information for support is provided in the syllabus.

Recommended Textbook

• Microbiology: An Introduction (14th edition) by Tortora, G.J., Case, C.L., Bair III, W.B., Weber, D., & Funke, B.R. (2024).

• Additional readings may be assigned beyond the textbook.

Additional info:

• This syllabus provides a structured overview of the course, including weekly topics, assessment methods, grading scheme, and key microbiology concepts. Students are encouraged to use the recommended textbook and online resources for further study.