Mbio 522 Bacterial Infection Mechanisms

The focus of this course is on the host's reaction to infection and the molecular mechanisms of

bacterial pathogenesis. Lectures and group discussions focusing on pathogenesis-related themes,

techniques, findings, and analyses of both modern and classic literature. While subjects like

inflammasome activation, TLR signaling, and adaptive immune responses offer a host-centric

viewpoint, bacterial secretion systems, host cell entrance mechanisms, biofilm formation, and

motility are predominantly seen from the pathogen's point of view. Further meetings are devoted

to reviewing the state-of-the-art approaches for developing vaccines and antibiotics. Additionally,

the course introduces students to the vast array of harmful microbes. The organisms that are being

discussed are pathogenic, e.g.; E. Coli, Shigella species, Vibrio cholerae, Listeria monocytogenes,

Chlamydia trachomatis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, by

working on a research project that uses both traditional and molecular approaches to isolate and

characterize a common bacterial pathogen, students will improve their research abilities.