Pathogenic Microbiology

Catalog description

The interaction between a pathogen and its host has two potential outcomes, resistance or disease. Pathogenic microbiology, therefore, is a discipline that demands an understanding of the microorganisms that cause disease, the human immune system and the mechanistic interplay between the two. This course aims to provide foundational knowledge in the area of host-pathogen interactions. Following an introduction to the microbes that naturally colonize humans, students will learn the molecular mechanisms used by microbial pathogens to overcome host barriers to infection. We will then begin a survey of clinically relevant microbial pathogens, including those that have the potential to be used as bioterror agents. We will end the semester with an in-depth examination of methods to detect infectious agents and therapeutics to limit disease. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week.Carries biology major credit.