Brief Lessons in Microbiology

The first part tells the story of the beginnings of microbiology itself and introduces the reader to the founders of this fascinating research discipline. The second part focuses on communication between microorganisms and how they organize themselves into fascinating microbial cities called "biofilms". The reader also learns how bacteria exchange genetic material - mechanisms that are the root of the emergence of multidrug-resistant superbugs, pathogens that pose a major burden to human health and our healthcare systems. The third part is devoted to the latest techniques being used by scientists to study, control, and manipulate microorganisms for our benefit. The final part links the first three parts together and highlights how infectious diseases, including coronaviruses, can be transmitted from animals to humans, how global warming is affecting emerging diseases, and provides information on the actions that need to be taken to get ahead of pathogenic microbes and future pandemics. The concepts covered in this book contribute to UN Sustainable Development Goal 3: Health and Well-Being.