The course aims to provide the essential elements of general microbiology and pharmaceutical microbiology, together with basic notions of hygiene. At the end of the course the student must have achieved the following results:
• Knowledge of the structure and function of the prokaryotic cell, bacterial spores, fungi and viruses and their implications in pharmaceutical production. • Knowledge of the different microbiological aspects associated with pharmaceutical production and quality control. • Knowledge of the main laboratory procedures. Acquisition of basic knowledge in the epidemiological and health fields. • Knowledge of prevention methodologies.
Course Prerequisites
To follow the course in a profitable way the student must have a good knowledge of the fundamental principles of general biology and, possibly, of immunology.
Teaching Methods
The course is organized in lectures, carried out through PowerPoint presentations projected on screen. The lessons of the course are available to students on the KIRO platform. For students with specific needs, who cannot attend in person the teaching activities and who have applied for Inclusive Teaching Methods, adequate teaching material will be available for a profitable independent study. If requested, self-learning can be supported by tutoring or supplementary teaching activities, and by dedicated meetings, also online, with flexible hours depending on the needs.
Assessment Methods
The student can choose between: a) Early exam session: a final written test (5 open-ended questions )at the end of the course for those who have attended at least 75% of the lesson hours. b) written exam: 6-7 exam sessions are held every year. Each exam consists of 5 open-ended questions. During the course, several examples of exam questions are presented; furthermore, appropriate examination methods are foreseen for students who fall into the categories foreseen for Specific Learning Disorders (DSA) and Special Educational Needs (SEN). The evaluation scale of the exams is expressed in thirties.
Texts
Microbiologia Farmaceutica - a cura di N. Carlone, R. Pompei, V.Tullio. - Edises editore III edizione. ISBN 9788836230211
Contents
Microorganisms and their microscopic observation. Morphology and structure of bacteria. Bacterial reproduction. Basics of bacterial genetics. Viruses. The fungi. The cultivation and titration of microorganisms. Microbiological aspects of pharmaceutical production. Antimicrobial treatments. Compulsorily sterile medicines and non-compulsorily sterile medicines. Good manufacturing standards and quality control of pharmaceutical products. The origin of the contamination of pharmaceutical products. The validation process according to the Official Pharmacopoeia. Main laboratory techniques. The basic measures in epidemiology. Etiology and transmission of infectious diseases. Objectives and methods of prevention. Vaccines (characteristics, types). Mandatory or recommended vaccinations in Italy. Disinfection. The diffusion of biological agents in indoor environments.
