BL4215 Bacterial Virulence Factors
(BL4215 online module handbook version 34)
image: Fibronectin-mediated Streptococcus pyogenes invasion of a host cell.†
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.
*Credits: 15*
Semester: 1†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:Before taking this module you must pass BL3301*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL4215: Assessment
Coursework = 100%*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL4215: Contributing Staff †
BL4215: Learning Outcomes †
This module is an introduction to the molecular basis of bacterial virulence. It aims to impart an appreciation of the role of molecular and structural biology in infectious disease research.
Students completing module BL4215 successfully should be able to:
- Definition and classes of bacterial virulence factors
- Appreciate the role of structural biology in understanding bacterial pathogenicity
- Understand the function and mechanisms of Gram-negative secretion systems
- Learn how bacterial surface-associated proteins trigger or prevent phagocytosis
- Gain insights into the latest findings regarding structure and function of bacterial pili and adhesins
BL4215: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
Transferable Skills
- Long individual presentation on given topic (>15 min)
- Long essay (>2000 words)
- Science journalism piece aimed at general audience
- Finding literature
- Referencing
- Searching databases
- Peer assessment
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/
