Course Overview

Introduction

This course, Biology 440: General Microbiology at American River College, provides a comprehensive introduction to microorganisms and their effects on human health. The curriculum covers the structure, physiology, metabolism, and genetics of microorganisms, as well as laboratory techniques and medically relevant issues.

• Lecture and Lab: Both components are required and integrated.

• Textbooks: Microbiology: Basic and Clinical Principles (Norman-McKay), General Microbiology Laboratory Manual (Scott et al.), and A Photographic Atlas for the Microbiology Laboratory (Lebroffe et al.).

Student Learning Outcomes and Objectives

• Microbial Anatomy and Physiology: Analyze cellular structure and function of microorganisms.

• Biochemistry and Genetics: Summarize microbial biochemistry and genetics, relating them to biotechnology.

• Human Health Applications: Apply microbiology concepts to infectious diseases and health issues.

• Laboratory Techniques: Demonstrate microscopy, biochemical tests, and diagnostic media use.

• Control of Microbial Growth: Describe physical and chemical methods for controlling microbes.

• Host-Microbe Interactions: Explain symbiotic relationships and host defenses.

Course Structure and Evaluation

Exams and Grading

• 4 Midterms (100 points each; lowest dropped)

• Final Exam (100 points)

• Lab (140 points: lab exams, reports, data sheets)

• Total: 540 points

• Letter grades: A (90-100%), B (80-89%), C (70-79%), D (60-69%), F (<60%)

• Curving may be applied at instructor's discretion.

Assignments and Policies

• Note cards (4x6) allowed for each exam; must be turned in with exam.

• Make-up exams only with prior approval or documented emergency.

• Extra credit: Attendance and short reports on protein synthesis, bacteriophages, and COVID-19.

• Attendance is mandatory; missing three consecutive classes may result in being dropped.

• Honor code enforced for all exams.

Laboratory Safety and Procedures

• Lab coats and goggles required (not provided).

• Microscope care: 4X objective in place, cords wrapped, oil cleaned, slides removed.

• Proper disposal of stains, plates, and tubes; disinfection of tables before and after lab.

• Points deducted for improper lab maintenance.

Lecture and Lab Schedule

Major Topics by Week

• Weeks 1-2: Introduction to Microbiology, Microscopy, Observing Microorganisms, Cell Structure (Ch. 1, 3, 4)

• Weeks 3-4: Microbial Metabolism (Ch. 8), Staining Techniques

• Weeks 5-6: Microbial Growth (Ch. 7), Enzyme and Biochemical Tests

• Weeks 6-7: Microbial Genetics (Ch. 5), Genetic Engineering (Ch. 14)

• Weeks 7-8: Control of Microbial Growth (Ch. 7), Antimicrobial Drugs (Ch. 15)

• Weeks 9-10: Viruses and Prions (Ch. 6), Innate Immunity (Ch. 11)

• Weeks 11-12: Adaptive Immunity (Ch. 12), Immunology Applications (Ch. 14)

• Week 13: Immune System Disorders (Ch. 13), Host-Microbe Interactions (Ch. 9, 10)

• Weeks 14-16: System Infections: Skin, Eye, Nervous, Cardiovascular, Lymphatic, Urinary, Reproductive, Digestive (Ch. 16-21)

Major Exam Essay Topics

Overview

Final essays require in-depth discussion of microbial pathogenesis, host defenses, and disease mechanisms for specific organ systems and pathogens. Key concepts include microbial virulence, immune evasion, normal flora, quorum sensing, sequential timing, and prevention strategies.

Key Microbiology Concepts Referenced in Syllabus

• Transduction: The process by which bacterial DNA is transferred from one bacterium to another by a virus (bacteriophage).

• Quorum Sensing: Cell-to-cell communication in bacteria that enables coordination of group behaviors based on population density.

• Sequential Timing: The order and timing of microbial gene expression or infection processes, often critical for pathogenesis.

• Normal Flora: The community of microorganisms that inhabit the body and can influence susceptibility to infection.

• Host Immune Defenses: Includes innate (nonspecific) and adaptive (specific) immunity, as well as physical barriers.

• Receptor-Mediated Processes: Mechanisms by which microbes attach to and enter host cells via specific host receptors.

• SOD (Superoxide Dismutase) and Catalase: Enzymes that protect bacteria from oxidative damage by host immune cells.

• Obligate Aerobe: An organism that requires oxygen for growth.

• Generalized vs. Specialized Transduction: Generalized transduction transfers any bacterial gene; specialized transduction transfers specific genes near the prophage site.

• Blood-Brain Barrier: A selective barrier that protects the central nervous system from pathogens and toxins.

• Toxoid: An inactivated toxin used in vaccines to elicit immunity.

• Excystation/Encystation: Processes by which protozoan parasites exit or form cysts, aiding survival and transmission.

Summary Table: Major Microbiology Topics Covered

Additional Info

• Students are expected to read all assigned material and participate in both lecture and lab.

• Lab data sheets and formal reports have specific due dates; late or handwritten assignments are not accepted.

• Study groups and consistent study habits are encouraged for success.