Aims

This integrated module aims to develop students' appreciation of the fundamentals of bacterial cell biology in the context of their importance to humankind. The module also aims to develop further subject-specific and core skills including team-working, oral and written presentation skills and data interpretation.

Outline Of Syllabus

The module covers three main topics: bacterial cell biology, the cell cycle and genetics. Topics include:
Bacterial growth and the cell cycle.
The basic metabolic processes that allow microbes to grow and divide
Cellular responses to the environment including stress responses, chemotaxis and sporulation
Cell structure including that of membranes and cell walls
The integration of cell processes such as protein synthesis, DNA replication and cell division
The impact of antibiotics on microbial metabolism and the mechanisms of resistance.

This module looks at the fundamental molecular processes involved in bacterial cell biology, the cell cycle and genetics. Starting with a discussion of the impact of “New age” genetics on the methods used to study these fundamental processes at the molecular level, all the way through the course an emphasis is placed on their importance with respect to pathogenesis. Starting with the genome, the course discusses the various processed involved in a typical cell cycle, including DNA replication and its regulation, protein synthesis (transcription and translation), cell membrane and cell wall biology, and the mechanisms involved in properly locating proteins from their site of synthesis to their site of activity. The cause also discusses how bacteria respond to changes in their environment, including their responses to stress, chemotaxis, differentiation and sporulation. Finally, the impact of antibiotics on microbial metabolism is discussed alon with the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures will provide students with key information. The seminar will encourage increased understanding of the material through discussion of journal articles. Private study will allow students to extend their knowledge through reading of journal articles and other recommended references.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The examination provides evidence of knowledge and understanding of the topics. The teamwork exercise develops team working, analytical and research skills.