MIB-10306 Microbiology & Biochemistry

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Studiepunten 6.00

Language of instruction:

Dutch

Contents:

Genetic, physiological, morphological and ecological aspects of procaryotes and primitive eucaryotes are addressed. Diversity of microorganisms is the central item.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- explain the importance of the large diversity of microorganisms for development and sustainment of life on earth;
- explain that structure and function of enzymes are a link between chemistry and the living cell, and that biochemical unity underlies biological diversity;
- explain the following basic principles of metabolism of (micro)organisms: manipulation of free energy by enzymes to direct metabolism, importance of oxidation-reduction reactions for extracting energy from organic and inorganic substrates, glycolysis, citric acid cycle and respiratory chain;
- compare the basal metabolism with glucose as a model substrate in (micro)organisms in the presence and absence of external electron acceptors;
- summarize a number of microbial interactions in specific ecosystems;
- exemplify the influence of environmental factors on microbial activity in the cycling of nutrients, like carbon, nitrogen, sulfur and iron;
- perform simple microbial experiments with emphasis on aseptic techniques for transfer and handling of microorganisms;
- enrich and isolate microorganisms under defined environmental conditions.

Activities:

Attend lectures that are supported by 2 textbooks. Perform several laboratory experiments, write a laboratory report and give a small presentation.

Examination:

The final mark is based on a written exam and on the outcome of the laboratory experiments (practical work + laboratory report)

Literature:

Textbooks are "Biology of Microorganisms" (Brock 13th ed.) and "Biochemistry" (Berg, Tymoczko, Stryer 6th ed.). Textbook and practical course handbook are available at WUR shop, Forum.