Infection biology

Summary

Infectious diseases (ID) are still a major problem to human health. But how do pathogens make us sick? How do they evolve and spread? The discovery and use of antibiotics and vaccination has changed the outcome of some IDs. But resistance mechanisms have evolved and are of major concern.

Content

Keywords

Infection Biology; bacterial pathogens; viruses; eukaryotic pathogens; antibiotics and resistance mechanisms; virulence factors; global impact of infectious diseases.

Learning Prerequisites

Recommended courses

Basic microbiology (requirement), immunology, basic cell biology, and genetics and genomics.

Important concepts to start the course

Background knowledge in microbiology.

Teaching methods

Ex cathedra + exercises, including presentation and discussion of relevant scientific publications.

Expected student activities

Students are expected to participate in this course by attending all class sessions including the journal clubs. Students will present and discuss recent state-of-the-art publications in depths.

Assessment methods

During the semester (presentation + continous control exam)

Supervision

Resources

Bibliography

• "Bacterial pathogenesis: a molecular approach / Brenda A. Wilson ... [et al.]. Year:2011.
• ISBN:978-1-55581-418-2
• "Microbiology: an evolving science / Joan L. Slonczewski, John W. Foster. Year:2011.
• ISBN:978-0-393-11824-7
• "Principles of virology" / S.J. Flint ... [et al.]. Year:2009. ISBN:978-1-55581-443-4

Ressources en bibliothèque

• Find the references at the Library

Moodle Link

• https://go.epfl.ch/BIO-477