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752-4009-00L 3 Credits BSC , MSC D-USYS , D-BIOL , D-HEST , D-CHAB
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Molecular Biology of Foodborne Pathogens

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Martin Loessner, PD Dr. Markus Schuppler, Prof. Dr. Emma Slack, PD Dr. Mathias Schmelcher, Prof. Dr. Alexander Harms
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:30:50

Abstract

The course offers detailed information on selected foodborne pathogens and toxin producing organisms; the focus lies on relevant molecular biological aspects of pathogenicity and virulence, as well as on the occurrence and survival of these organisms in foods.

Objective

Detailed and current status of research and insights into the molecular basis of foodborne diseases, with focus on interactions of the microorganism or the toxins they produce with the human system. Understanding the relationship between specific types of food and the associated pathogens and microbial risks. Another focus lies on the currently available methods and techniques useful for the various purposes, i.e., detection, differentiation (typing), and antimicrobial agents.

Content

Molecular biology of infectious foodborne pathogens (Listeria, E. coli, Campylobacter, Salmonella, etc) and toxin-producing organisms (Bacillus, Clostridium, Staphylococcus). How and under which conditions will toxins and virulence factors be produced, and how do they work? How is the interaction between the human host and the microbial pathogen? What are the roles of food and the environment ? What can be done to interfere with the potential risks? Which methods are best suited for what approach? Last, but not least, the role of bacteriophages in microbial pathogenicity will be highlighted, in addition to various applications of bacteriophage for both diagnostics and antimicrobial intervention.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Electronic copies of the presentation slides (PDF) and additional material will be made available for download to registered students.

Literature

Recommendations will be given in the first lecture

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
Mode
written 90 minutes
Aids
None

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Molecular Biology of Foodborne Pathogens
  • Thu 10:15-12:00 (HG E 1.2)
2 h weekly

Offered In