:: Microbiology Course Descriptions ::
100 Level Courses
MICROBIO 160 Biology of Cancer & Aids (Fall and Spring)
Not for credit toward major. How cancer and AIDS begin and progress. The roles
of individual cells, the immune system, mutations and viruses. How various
physical and subtle factors influence one's chances of getting cancer. How
to not get AIDS. The principles of vaccine development and why AIDS presents
special difficulties. Established and new medical treatments for cancer and
AIDS. What cancer and AIDS can teach us about health, healing, disease, living,
and dying. (Gen.Ed. BS). (Fall and Spring). 3 credits.
100 200-300 400-500 600-800 Top
200-300 Level Courses
MICROBIO 255 Introduction to Medical Microbiology (Fall
and Spring)
Not for majors. With lab. Basic concepts of microbiology with emphasis on
microbial pathogenesis and immunity. Medically important microorganisms
including bacteria, fungi, viruses, rickettsia, protozoa, and the diseases
which they produce. Laboratory exercises develop fundamental skills in aseptic
technique, microscopy, pure culture study, and the isolation and identification
of pathogenic microorganisms. (Gen.Ed. BS). 4 credits.
Prerequisites: KIN 297C (formerly EXERSCI 205), KIN 297A (formerly EXERSCI 304).
MICROBIO 310 General Microbiology (Fall and Spring)
Overview of the microbial world including a survey of the structure, functioning,
and diversity of microorganisms. Introduction to the fundamental concepts
of microbial physiology, ecology, genetics, and pathogenesis. 3 credits.
Prerequisite: CHEM 261 or concurrent enrollment.
MICROBIO 312 Microbiology Laboratory (Fall and Spring)
Microbiological laboratory procedures including sterile technique, microscopy,
enrichment and isolation, and preservation. Extensive experience in the cultivation
of microorganisms. 3 credits.
Prerequisite: MICROBIO 310 or concurrent enrollment.
MICROBIO 320 Infectious Disease and Defense (Fall) (Formerly
Micbio 397) Course
web site
The mechanisms by which microorganisms, including bacteria, protozoa, fungi,
and viruses, infect animals and plants and cause disease, and the mechanisms
of host defense against infectious microbes. Emerging and reemerging infectious
diseases of plants and animals and development of resistance to antimicrobial
chemicals. 3 credits.
Prerequisites: BIOLOGY 100, 101 and MICROBIO 310.
MICROBIO 330 Microbial Genetics (Spring)
Basic concepts of microbial genetics, and genomics. Both classic and modern
experimental approaches to studies of fundamental genetic processes. 3
credits.
Prerequisites: MICROBIO 310 or BIOLOGY 100 and 101 or consent of instructor.
MICROBIO 360 Writing in Microbiology (Fall)
Satisfies the Junior Year Writing requirement. Students develop their writing
skills while completing a series of short assignments. Each participant will
identify a biological topic of their choice to research and write about during
the semester. 3 credits.
Prerequisites: ENGL WP 112 and MICROBIO 310.
MICROBIO 385
Introduction to Biotechnology Laboratory
(Spring)
An introduction to the methodology fundamental to the practice of modern agricultural biotechnology. Techniques covered include establishment and manipulation of plant and animal cell cultures, preparation and analysis of DNA and RNA, production of recombinant protein expression vectors, isolation and characterization of proteins, and use of immunoassays. Major emphasis on the student's performance of laboratory exercises which provide direct experience with each of the techniques mentioned. 4 credits.
Prerequisites: BIOLOGY 101 and CHEM 112, or Consent of Instructor.
MICROBIO 396 Independent Study (Fall and Spring)
Individual study of a selected problem for qualified students. By arrangement
with individual faculty members. 1- 6 credits.
100 200-300 400-500 600-800 Top
400-500 Level Courses
MICROBIO 480 Microbial Physiology (Spring)
Experimental approaches used to define essential aspects of bacterial growth,
including energy metabolism, biosynthesis of macromolecule precursors and
their assembly into macromolecules, and the integration of these processes
by various regulatory mechanisms. Emphasis on the isolation and characterization
of mutants blocked in key cell functions. 3 credits.
Prerequisite: MICROBIO 310.
MICROBIO 498 Senior Honors (Fall and Spring)
Senior research, thesis option. By arrangement with department and/or Honors
Office. 4 credits.
MICROBIO 499 Senior Honors (Fall and Spring)
Continuation of 498. Thesis mandatory. By arrangement with department and/or
Honors Office. 1-5 credits.
MICROBIO 542 Immunology Laboratory (Spring)
This laboratory course is designed to help students become familiar with and proficient in the performance of principles and protocols in cellular immunology, immunochemistry and clinical serology. This will be accomplished over the course of the semester by exploring the protein chemistry of antibodies, including antibody isolation using salt precipitation, ion exchange, and molecular sieving column chromatogrphy, spectrophotometry, SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), western blotting, immunoprecipitation, enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA), and immunofluorescence staining. The student will also perform classic serological assays including the complement fixation test, passive hemagglutination and immunodiffusion (Ouchterlony technique). Anatomy of the lymphatic system will be explored using a mouse model. Specifically, the student will perform mouse dissection, lymph node examination, and isolation of lymphocytes from the mouse spleen and thymus. Finally, the student will be exposed to cellular immunology, including mammalian histology, identification and enumeration of mouse and human leukocytes, normal and diseased lymphoid tissue, and two-color flow cytometric analysis of lymphocyte subpopulations. prerequisite or co requisite: cours in immunology, e.g., MICROBIO 320 or ANIMLSCI 472. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 550 Infection and Immunity (Fall)
Principles of host-parasite interactions; examination of fundamental knowledge concerning: i) infections caused by pathogenic bacteria; ii) virulence factors, such as toxins and microbial structures; iii) pathogenesis and pathology of bacterial infections; iv) nonspecific factors in host resistance and susceptibility to infectious disease; and v) immunology of microbial infection. Prerequisite: MICROBIO 320 or ANIMLSCI 472 or consent of instructor. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 552 Pathogenic Bacteriology Laboratory (Fall)
Laboratory procedures in clinical and diagnostic bacteriology including: i) culture and physiological characteristics of the pathogenic bacteria; ii) recommended procedures for the cultivation of both the common and rare pathogens isolated from clinical material; iii) conventional and rapid biochemical methods for detection and identification of medically important bacteria; iv) serological procedures on microorganisms of prime medical concern; and v) prescribed tests for the susceptibility of bacteria to antibiotics and antimetabolites. Prerequisite: MICROBIO 312; may be taken concurrently only by consent of instructor. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 560 Microbial Diversity
Exploration and interpretation of the diversity of microbial life. The role in nature of various groups of microbes; their physiology and ecology. Metabolism and energy conservation in chemoheterotrophic and chemolithotrophic bacteria and archaea. Anoxygenic and oxygenic photosynthesis. Microbial behaviors, symbiotic associations, and communities. Emphasis on anaerobes. Prerequisite: MICROBIO 310 or consent of instructor; a course in biochemistry is desirable. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 562 Environmental Biotechnology
Traditional and molecular methods strategically applied to problems related to microbial biotechnology and environmental microbiology. Ranges from the diversity of microbial life to biodegradation. Seven general areas emphasized: 1) Statistical sampling and site characterization, 2) biomass determination, 3) enrichment techniques, 4) microbial activity measurements, 5) single cell detection in situ , 6) sequence and phylogenetic analysis followed by probe design, and 7) other modern techniques of environmental microbiology. Each are accompanied by lectures and ongoing discussions led by the respective faculty member. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 565 Laboratory in Molecular Genetics (Fall)
Methodology and principles of modern molecular genetics. Microbial genetics combining classical techniques with bacteriophages and bacteria with modern PCR and recombinant DNA experiments. Introduction to genomic and structural analysis using computer methods. Gene expression in insect tissue culture cells using the baculovirus gene expression system. Designed to help students learn techniques and analyze results. Prerequisites: MICROBIO 330 or equivalent or consent of instructor. 4 credits.
MICROBIO 570 Virology
Molecular biology of animal viruses and viral genetic systems; viral disease
processes.
Emphasis on polio virus, influenza, herpes viruses, the DNA tumor viruses, retroviruses (including HIV), and hepadna viruses. Prerequisite: MICROBIO 310; background in cell biology, genetics, or biochemistry recommended. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 585 Concepts in Molecular Genetics (Spring)
Fundamental and advanced concepts in bacterial gene regulation, with focus
on bacterial responses to environmental stress. Emphasis on experimental design,
data interpretation and presentation. Prerequisite: basic coursework in biochemistry and genetics. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 590B Bioinformatics Lab (Spring)
Bioinformatics is more than a collection of tools. It is a different way of thinking about biology. This laboratory course is an introduction to using bioinformatics to discover and test biological hypotheses. During the course you will learn how to program in Perl, use the statistical language R, and become familiar with common algorithms and programs used in bioinformatics, particularly in the areas of genome sequence and expression analysis. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 590S Parasitology (Spring)
Classical and modern parasitology concentrating on protozoan and worm parasites of major medical/veterinary importance. Topics include basic principles of parasitology, life cycles, epidemiology, host-parasite interactions, drug treatments and vector control programs, along with information on the basic biology, biochemistry, and genetics of selected parasites. Prerequisites: introductory course in biology; BIOCHEM 285, MICROBIO 310. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 590L Parasitology Lab (Spring)
Interdisciplinary discovery-based laboratory in which students perform individualized experiments. Students use the genetic tool RNA interference to validate potential new drug targets in the protozoan parasite, Trypanosoma brucei. specific techniques include: database searching, primer design and PCR analyses, DNA andRNA isolation, culturing and transfection of eukaryotic cells, inducible RNA interference, epifluorescence analyses, and drug inhibitor studies. Corequisites: MICROBIO 590S or consent of instructor. 3 credits.
Special Topics Courses
MICROBIO 597B Microbial Biotechnology
Agricultural and industrial uses of microorganisms and efforts to genetically
modify microorganisms for specific purposes. Topics include: history and development,
microbial products, microbial biomass as a protein source, bioremediation,
N2 fixation, Agrobacterium and the manipulation of plant genes, detection
and monitoring of genetically engineered microorganisms, government regulation
and social implications. 1-3 credits.
Prerequisite: MICROBIO 310 or consent of instructor. Course in genetics desirable.
MICROBIO 597E Environmental Microbiology (Fall)
How Microorganisms interact with each other and with their environment.
Microbial distribution and activities in natural systems, and their importance
to ecosystem function and environmental quality. Extreme habitats; habitat-specific
forces; microbial activity; microbial transformations and their impact on
different environments; species diversity, detection, and control of microorganisms;
and associations with higher organisms. Each basic principle followed
by applied and environmental case studies. Modern techniques of environmental
microbiology graduate students write an independent research proposal.
3 credits.
Prerequisite: MICROBIO 310.
100 200-300 400-500 600-800 Top
600-800 Level Courses
MICROBIO 680 Microbial Physiology (Fall)
Main aspects of microbial growth, energy and biosynthesis pathways, metabolic regulation and integration of pathways into a coherent system. Emphasis on physiological diversity, global control systems governing the adaptation of microorganisms to different environmental conditions, and emerging methodologies. Prerequisite: general background in microbiology and biochemistry. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 690E Microbial Evolution and Ecology (Spring)
It has been said biology makes sense only in light of evolution. Equally true is the fact that evolution only makes sense in light of ecology. Theoretical and experimental issues confront the application of evolutionary and ecological principles to microbial populations and communities. This course will describe what is currently known about microbial ecology from the level of individuals to ecosystems as well as the issues that are still unresolved. Prerequisites: Graduate standing. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 690K Bioinformatics (Fall)
(SEE CMPSCI 691K) This course is an introduction to the biological, computational and statistical
foundations necessary for bioinformatics-related research. Areas covered will
include; biological databases, DNA and protein sequence analysis, structure-based
analysis, expression analysis, and genetic mapping. While there
are no formal prerequisites,
some level of familiarity with molecular biology, statistics, and/or computer
programming is recommended. 3 credits.
MICROBIO 696 Independent Study
Research project under direction of a faculty member. By arrangement. 1-6
credits.
MICROBIO 697D Special Topics: Acid Mine Drainage
Critical reviews and discussions of the current literature dealing with biogeochemistry of acid mine drainage (AMD). Establishes a broad understanding of the current literature and the basics of the biogeochemistry of AMD, and the biogeochemical processes related to AMD production and attenuation. AMD studied as a model for the interaction of microbial, geological, and hydrochemical systems. 1 credit.
MICROBIO 697S Systems Biology (Spring)
Systems Biology has been heralded as the Biology of the 21st Century. Come
discover why. This primary literature-based course will cover seminal and
exciting new papers that combine theoretical, computational and experimental
results into explanatory and predictive models of biological systems. 1
credit.
MICROBIO 699 Master's Thesis
1-9 credits.
MICROBIO 791A Graduate Seminar
Reports and discussion of pertinent literature and research. Required of all
microbiology graduate majors each semester in residence. More
information. 1 credit.
MICROBIO 796 Independent study
Research project under direction of a faculty member. By arrangement. 1-8
credits.
MICROBIO 797B Microbial Aspects of Biogeochemistry (Fall)
Studies the active subsurface iosphere in sedimentary basins, to advance understanding of: 1) the forms of metabolic processes employed by such populations, and limits on the activity of subsurface microbial communities; 2) the origin, survival, and dormancy of slowly-growing subsurface microorganisms far removed from earth surface influences; 3) the geochemical, mineralogical and molecular signatures that subsurface organisms may imprint on rocks and sediments; and 4) the impact that active modern populations may have on overprinting of paleoenvironmental signatures preserved in ancient sediments and rocks. 1 credit.
MICROBIO 797E Microbial Ecology Journal Club (Fall)
Presentations and discussions of important research papers from the current literature. Emphasis on either new strategies to address fundamental issues in microbial ecology or on hypothesis-based microbial ecology research. All participants should expect to lead a discussion. Presentations start with postdoctoral and senior graduate students. 1 credit.
MICROBIO 797J Immunology Journal Club
This well organized journal club entails critical review of the scientific literature deemed beneficial and relevant to both students and immunology faculty. Students make one presentation of a journal article from a reputable immunology-related journal with the advice and final approval from an immunology faculty member. Topics include molecular immunology, programmed cell death, virus immunology, infection and defense, cellular immunology and receptor-mediated signaling. 1 credit.
MICROBIO 797P Molecular Mechanisms in Pathogenesis
Explores through current primary literature some of the complex processes used by microbial pathogens to establish themselves in a host and to gain nutrients, subsequently causing host cell damage and disease, and to evade the host's defense. Includes discussion of the modern molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry tools to study these processes. 1 credit.
MICROBIO 899 Doctoral Dissertation
1-9 credits.
100 200-300 400-500 600-800 Top
|
|
|
|
|
