University of Surrey (UNIS)

Explore the principles of phylogenetics and how molecular techniques are used to establish the evolutionary history of microbes. Learn about the importance of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequences in constructing phylogenetic trees. Understand the classification system from domain to species, including the criteria used to categorize bacteria, archaea, fungi, protozoa, and viruses. Gain insight into the physical and biochemical traits that aid in microbial identification, such as cell shape, size...

Explore the taxonomy of Spirochaetales, including major genera such as Treponema, Borrelia, and Leptospira. Gain a clear understanding of their distinctive spiral shape, flagella structure, and unique cell wall composition.

Gain a solid understanding of Rickettsia's biology, including its unique morphology, life cycle, and growth requirements. Learn how Rickettsia interacts with host cells, the mechanisms of pathogenesis, and the clinical manifestations of Rickettsial infections.

Detailed descriptions of major protozoan pathogens, including Plasmodium, Leishmania, and Trypanosoma, with insights into their life cycles and pathogenic mechanisms. Clear explanations of the vectors involved in transmission, such as mosquitoes and sandflies, highlighting their roles in disease outbreaks. Information on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for diseases caused by protozoan infections, enhancing your understanding of real-world applications.

Explore the origins and evolutionary adaptations of protozoa, including key events that shaped their diversity and classification. Understand the various forms and structures of protozoa, from flagellates to amoeboids, and their ecological roles. Gain insights into the life cycles of protozoa, including asexual and sexual reproduction, and the environmental factors that influence their development.

Learn about the various strategies employed by bacteria, including adherence, invasion, and colonization. Each mechanism is clearly explained with examples from clinically significant pathogens. Explore the specific traits that enhance a bacterium's ability to cause disease, such as toxins, enzymes, and surface proteins. Understand how these factors contribute to pathogenicity and the clinical implications of bacterial infections. Gain insights into the dynamic relationship between bac...

Explore the taxonomy, morphology, and biochemical properties of Neisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, highlighting their unique characteristics that distinguish them from other bacterial pathogens. Gain insights into the mechanisms of infection for both bacteria, including the virulence factors that enable them to evade the host immune system, cause disease, and establish infection.

Explore the fundamental features that distinguish Gram-positive bacteria from Gram-negative bacteria, including cell wall structure, staining properties, and biochemical characteristics. Gain insights into the major genera of Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Bacillus, and Clostridium, with descriptions of their morphology, physiology, and pathogenic potential. Understand the mechanisms of infection and virulence factors associated with key Gram-positive path...

Learn the distinguishing features of gram-negative bacteria, including their unique cell wall structure, which influences their staining properties and pathogenicity. Explore important gram-negative bacterial genera such as Escherichia, Salmonella, Pseudomonas, and Neisseria, along with their clinical significance and roles in human health.

Understand the morphology, physiology, and genetic makeup of Campylobacter and Helicobacter. Learn about their unique characteristics, growth requirements, and metabolic pathways. Explore the mechanisms of pathogenesis for both genera, including virulence factors and how these bacteria evade host defenses. Gain insight into the diseases associated with each, such as gastroenteritis from Campylobacter jejuni and peptic ulcers from Helicobacter pylori.