Antimicrobial resistance – theory and methods Course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), combining theoretical knowledge with practical methods used in clinical and research settings. Over 7 weeks, learners will explore the mechanisms of resistance, laboratory testing techniques, and genomic analysis tools essential for detecting and interpreting AMR. With a mix of video lectures, hands-on lab method walkthroughs, and bioinformatics applications, the course requires approximately 4-6 hours per week. Designed by experts at the Technical University of Denmark, it equips learners with science-driven skills to address one of the most pressing global health challenges.

Module 1: Antimicrobials and Their Actions

Estimated time: 5 hours

• Classification of antimicrobials
• Mechanisms of action of antibiotics
• Interaction between antimicrobials and microorganisms
• Targets in bacterial cells and modes of inhibition

Module 2: Antimicrobial Resistance Mechanisms

Estimated time: 5 hours

• Biological basis of antimicrobial resistance
• Intrinsic vs. acquired resistance
• Horizontal gene transfer and resistance spread
• Role of mobile genetic elements in AMR dissemination

Module 3: Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST)

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Principles of disk diffusion method
• Agar dilution technique and interpretation
• Broth microdilution protocol
• Interpreting zone diameters and MIC values

Module 4: Whole Genome Analysis Tools

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Introduction to genotypic resistance detection
• Using ResFinder for resistance gene identification
• Applying MyDBFinder in resistance profiling
• Linking genomic data to phenotypic outcomes

Module 5: Detecting Specific Resistance Mechanisms

Estimated time: 5 hours

• PCR-based detection of resistance genes
• Targeting key resistance mechanisms (e.g., ESBLs, carbapenemases)
• Amplification and analysis of mobile genetic elements

Module 6: Quality Assurance in Testing

Estimated time: 4 hours

• Importance of control strains in AST
• Standardization of testing procedures
• Best practices for laboratory quality assurance

Module 7: Final Assessment

Estimated time: 3 hours

• Comprehensive theoretical exam
• Practical data interpretation scenarios
• Case-based questions on AMR detection and reporting

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of microbiology
• Familiarity with laboratory procedures
• Background in life sciences or healthcare recommended

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Explain the biological mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance
• Perform and interpret antimicrobial susceptibility tests
• Apply molecular techniques like PCR for resistance gene detection
• Use bioinformatics tools such as ResFinder and MyDBFinder
• Interpret resistance data for clinical and public health decision-making