Principles of Microbiology

Historical background of microbiology. Introduction to the economic importance of microorganisms: Pathogenicity in human beings, plants and animals, environment, food and Industrial use. Microbial diversity including taxonomy, general characteristics, structures and classification of Archaea, Bacteria, Fungi, Protista, Viruses, Bacteriophages and Prions. Microbial growth: Factors affecting microbial growth and kinetics of microbial growth. Techniques of studying microorganisms: aseptic technique and safety, Microscopy and staining procedures, enumeration, isolation, and identification of microorganisms including traditional and molecular methods. Control of microorganisms: Sterilization, disinfection, antimicrobial agents and kinetics of cell death.