Course Details in 2024/25 Session

Module Title	LI Introduction to Bacteriology and Infections associated with Biomaterials
School	Institute of Clinical Sciences
Department	Dentistry
Module Code	02 34164
Module Lead	Dr Sarah Kuehne
Level	Intermediate Level
Credits	20
Semester	Semester 1
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Exclusions
Description	This module provides a basic introduction to bacteriology, including a practical, followed by a more in depth study of bacterial virulence factors that enable bacteria to colonise the host and spread within it. The problems of antibiotic resistance are highlighted. Antibiotic resistance mechanisms and possible alternative treatment options will be discussed. The module also provides an introduction to infections associated with biomaterials including routes to infection, major causative organisms, biofilms, diagnosis, prevention and treatment. Particularly prominent materials and associated infections, for example infections of catheters will be covered in more detail. Bacteria can form communities on surfaces, which are called biofilms and which are extremely hard to disrupt. The module will explain how biofilms form, maintain and how they can be disrupted to allow for treatment of infections.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Explain the differences between Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial cell walls; recognise different cell morphologies as an aid to identification and explain the function of bacterial components such as flagellae, fimbriae, capsule, spores Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of bacterial genetics and methods of gene transfer including conjugation, transformation, and transfection, regulation of gene expression in relation to infection Demonstrate a basic understanding of the different classes of antibiotics, mechanisms of action and antibiotic resistance Demonstrate a basic understanding of bacterial growth kinetics and requirements for growth Describe basic laboratory procedures to identify clinically important classes of bacteria including Gram stain, use of selective and non-selective culture media and simple biochemical tests Describe molecular methods to identify bacterial pathogens. Demonstrate an understanding of how bacteria cause infection by invading the host and overcoming host defences, including bacterial adhesins, invasins, and exotoxins and other virulence factors that enable bacteria to spread within the host Demonstrate an awareness of the problem of infections associated with biomaterials, the consequences of infection for the patient and the NHS, major causative organisms, routes to infection and risk factors Explain formation, maturation and disruption of bacterial biofilms Discuss biofilm formation and properties with reference to implant –associated infection, prevention and treatment Discuss communication of bacteria, quorum sensing, and its relevance to infection
Assessment	34164-01 : Exam : Exam (Centrally Timetabled) - Written Unseen (45%) 34164-02 : Coursework : Coursework (55%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	The module is assessed by a combination of written examination (1 hour comprising 3/4 SAQ) and course work. Written examination: 45% Course work: 55% comprising: Practical report: 20% Group presentation ? individual marks (15%) and a group-hand-out on the presentation topic (10%) MCQ test (10%)
Other
Reading List