The course aims to provide an accurate understanding of the microbial world to obtain the following results: • knowledge of the structure and function of the prokaryotic cell, bacterial spores, fungi and viruses and their implications in pharmaceutical manufacture. • Basics of infections by microorganisms • knowledge of various microbiological aspects associated with pharmaceutical production and quality control.
Course Prerequisites
To follow the course in a profitable way the student must, possibly, have a good knowledge of the fundamental principles of general biology.
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
Microscopic observation techniques. Structure and function of the prokaryotic cell, spore-forming bacteria, fungi and viruses. microbial reproduction. Basics of bacterial genetics. Microorganism/host ratios. Role and implications of microorganisms in the pharmaceutical industry. Pyrogens and bacterial endotoxins. Antimicrobial treatments. Compulsorily sterile medicines and non-compulsorily sterile medicines. Quality control of medicines. The validation process according to the Official Pharmacopoeia.
