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BL4215   Bacterial Virulence Factors

Academic year(s): 2023-2024

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Not automatically available to General Degree students

Planned timetable: To be arranged.

In order to establish an infection in a host, pathogenic bacteria rely on mechanisms to adhere to host tissue, gain entry into cells, escape the host's immune response and spread and survive within or on the host. These processes are mediated by bacterial virulence factors, i.e. proteins and other bacterial products that utilise and subvert diverse host cellular processes for the benefit of the pathogen. In this module students will explore how structural biology has led to significant breakthroughs in understanding the molecular bases of some important bacterial infections.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass BL3301

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: Across the semseter: 8 x 1h lectures (2 lectures a week for 4 weeks), 3 x 1h tutorials, 3 x 3h seminars

Scheduled learning hours: 19

Guided independent study hours: 131

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Existing Coursework = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr U Schwarz-Linek
Module teaching staff: Dr U Schwarz-Linek