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After this course you are able to:
- Inform your colleagues on new developments in the scientific field on the basis of primary literature.
- Describe experimental results in scientific reports.
- Apply the gained knowledge to the analysis of regulatory and bioenergetic processes which are studied in the practical part of the course.
- Explain how aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms are able to conserve their energy for growth on the basis of general bioenergetics and metabolic principles.
- Describe how microbial metabolism adapts to the changing environment at the molecular level.
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This course covers two central themes in Microbial Physiology: (1) the way energy is conserved and (2) regulation of metabolic processes in relation to changes in the environment and changes in the supply of energy substrates in particular. Starting from this molecular basis, we will come to a fundamental understanding of the ecophysiology of microorganisms in their natural environment.
Specific subjects that will be discussed are the following:
Metabolism and bio-energetics of aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms:
- General principles of bioenergetic processes
- Central carbon metabolism
- Aerobic and anaerobic respiration
- Fermentations
Regulatory systems of microorganisms:
- General principles of regulatory systems
- Regulation of metabolic processes
- Adaptation to a changing environment
- Stress response
- Motility and its regulation
New developments in the scientific field will be studied in working groups. Students will present their gained knowledge in a colloquium in form of an oral presentation of a selected scientific publication.
The main focus of the course is on energy generation of microorganisms and regulation of metabolic processes. In laboratory classes, experiments will be performed to study the regulatory system in bacteria and how different electron donors and acceptors affect microbial growth.
By this choice, the basis is laid both for subsequent courses in the educational program and research at the Department of Microbiology during the Master’s.
Instructional Modes
The course is separated in lectures, practical labwork and tutorials and also includes self-study.
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The course builds on the knowledge that has been gained from previous curriculum parts, such as “Microbiology" (NWI-BP033), “Microbial Metabolism" (NWI-BB090), “Plant Physiology”” (NWI-BB069B) and “Animal Physiology” (NWI-BB005C).
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- exam, counts for 60%, minimum grade 5.5
- participation in practical course and written report , counts for 30%, minimum grade 5.5
- oral presentation, counts for 10%, minimum grade 5.5
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The course will be taught in English. In order to pass, all components of the course have to be graded a minimum of 5.5.
You will need to use a lab coat and safety glasses.
If the maximum capacity is exceeded, students in the Microbiology trajectory have priority, so please make sure to enrol for a back-up course in time!
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