Knowledge of the molecular mechanisms through which microorganisms and viruses affect human health. To understand the different types of vaccines and their role in preventing infectious diseases. Knowledge of the scientific language to properly describe microbial pathogenesis.
Prerequisiti
Basic knowledge of microbiology, in particular cell structure, microorganism classification, and microbiology techniques; genetics, in particular gene regulation and operon structure; biochemistry, protein structure and function, enzymatic assays.
Metodi didattici
Lectures with discussion with students. Power Point presentations are used for lectures, made available to students in the section dedicated to teaching on the KIRO platform.
Verifica Apprendimento
Two hours written exam with open questions.
Evaluation expressed out of thirty. During the lessons, numerous examples of exam questions are given.
Testi
Slides plus articles and reviews. "Bacterial pathogenesis": a molecular approach. By Wilson et al. ASM Press.
Contenuti
Host-Pathogen interaction. Non-specific and specific defenses. Microbial pathogenesis. Mechanisms of bacterial adhesion-invasion. Evasion of host defenses and damage to host cell. Endotoxins and exotoxins. Quorum sensing, biofilm and persistence. Burkholderia cenocepacia: virulence factors and pathogenesis. Mycobacterium tuberculosis as a model of pathogen-host interaction. Multi-drug resistant bacteria and efflux pumps. New antibacterial molecules. Phage therapy. Vaccines: classic and modern approaches. Animal viruses: viruses responsible for hepatitis, influenza viruses, Coronavirus. What is virulence? Antimicrobial peptides. Phagocytosis process and intracellular bacterial survival. Protein secretion systems. Lipopolysaccharides and cell surface polysaccharides. Bacterial protein glycosylation and vaccines. Molecular adhesion and urinary tract infection as a model. Iron uptake.
Lingua Insegnamento
Inglese
Altre informazioni
For the categories of students identified by Senato Accademico in the session of 23 March 2023, the inclusive methods, among those indicated, will be provided and established ad hoc for each student who should need them.