MICR3012/3912

Molecular Biology of Pathogens

Course Information

These course outlines are a guide only. They are provided for the information of prospective students. Although every effort is made to ensure the most up to date information is provided, timetables often change each semester due to the availability of rooms and resources. Content (including lecture/practical topics, assessment and textbooks) is also regularly reviewed to ensure relevance and effective learning.

This Microbiology option is studied in Semester 2 to build on the discipline established in Intermediate Microbiology and in Year 3 in the Semester 1 elective MICR3011 Microbes in Infection.

The Molecular Biology of Pathogens Unit of Study is designed to provide an understanding of disease processes and antimicrobial strategies at the molecular level. We will examine how some antimicrobial agents work, and some of the resistance mechanisms that microbes have evolved to counteract them.

We will also look at how pathogens work to produce disease in the host by examining the nature and function of virulence factors such as adhesins, invasins and toxins, which allow the pathogen to attach to, invade, and damage human cells. The evolution of microbial virulence will also be discussed.

MICR3012/3912 provides a good basis for careers in molecular, environmental or experimental microbiology. Graduates have found work in diagnostic and research laboratories based in hospitals, universities, government organizations such as the CSIRO and Sydney Water, and private industries including biotechnology companies and industries involved in the production of food, crops and pharmaceuticals. Employment can also be found in sectors related to these industries, such as sales, technical support, marketing, scientific journalism and communication, and education.

A/Prof Dee Carter

Room: 535A

Telephone: 9351 5383

E-mail: d.carter@mmb.usyd.edu.au

For MICR3012
At least 6 credit points of MBLG units and MICR (2022 or 2922 or 2002 or 2902). For BMedSc students: 42 credit points of Intermediate BMED units including BMED (2802, 2807 and 2808). For BScAgr students: PLNT (2001 or 2901) and MICR2024.

For MICR3912
At least 6 credit points of MBLG units and Distinction in MICR (2022 or 2922 or 2002 or 2902). For BMedSc students: 42 credit points of Intermediate BMED units including BMED (2802 or 2807 or 2808) with a Distinction in one of these three. For BScAgr students: PLNT (2001 or 2901) and MICR2024 including one Distinction.

MICR3X12 1st Lecture: Thursday 10:00am Carslaw Lecture Theatre 175
MICR3X12 2nd Lecture: Friday 10:00am Carslaw Lecture Theatre 375


MICR3912 Only
Monday 10:00am Biochem/Microbiol Building room 551 (Week 2 – 6)

Salyers AA and Whitt DD Bacterial Pathogenesis. A Molecular Approach. 2nd ed. ASM. 2002

Modern techniques in molecular microbiology

Antibiotics – action and mechanisms of resistance.

Virulence mechanisms – toxins, adhesins, invasins.

The origin of genetic diversity among disease-causing organisms and viruses.

Evolutionary pressures acting on pathogenic determinants.


Advanced Lecture Topics in MICR3912 only
Case studies in molecular pathogenesis.

The practical sessions uses molecular techniques employed in diagnostic and research microbiology to investigate an outbreak scenario.

There will be an opportunity for students enrolled in MICR3912 and MICR3922 to do a small research practical in place of the formal practical course.

One 2 hour exam, continuous assessment, practical work.