Microbiology 1 at Las Positas College
 This is an exciting and challenging time to learn about microbiology. With the the attacks of bioterrorism in the United States and SARS limiting world travel in recent history, it is more than ever important to have accurate and current information about the good and the bad microbes. Reading the newspaper or watching the news you can hardly ignore the impact that microorganisms have on our lives. Almost daily you can find reports pertaining to microbiology: The discovery of microbes in an environment considered impossible to sustain life, the sequencing of another microbial genome, the emergence of a new epidemic, or the death of an individual from a rare infectious disease. Often microbiology is at the center of heated scientific discussions. E.g.: Are plants that contain viral or bacterial genes safe to eat? Is it wise to put antimicrobial agents into soaps and animal feed? What agents of biological warfare might the citizens of the world be confronted with? " Throughout this course, we will address these and many other issues and questions highly relevant for any health care professional. |
Course Description:
Microbiology
1 is a 5 units course with 3 hours lecture and 6 hours laboratory.
Covered
are bacteria, fungi, protozoans, parasites, and viruses with an emphasis on their
relationship to humans. Cultivation, control, metabolism, body's defense against
disease, microbial genetics, laboratory tests, and contemporary diseases are discussed.
Methods used in the laboratory include staining, investigation, cultivation, identification
of unknowns, and sensitivity testing.
Prerequisites: Biology 31, and Chemistry 30A or Chemistry 1A (both completed with a grade of "C" or higher). Strongly recommended: Anatomy 1, eligibility for English 1A or 52A.
