POSTGRADUATE STUDY AT THE DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACEUTICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
Postgraduate students are part of our research community and contribute greatly to the vibrant research culture at the department. Our Postgraduate programmes include Master of Pharmacy/Master of Science (M.Pharm/M.Sc.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D).
The postgraduate study combines taught courses and research work culminating in a thesis for M.Pharm/M. Sc. and a dissertation for Ph.D. Ph.D students are exposed to far fewer taught courses but more research work than other levels of postgraduate studies in the department. Our Graduate programme is designed to provide students with a greater understanding of Pharmaceutical microbiology and biotechnology. Studies include the manufacture and quality control of pharmaceutical products, understanding of the mode of action of antibiotics, the development of diagnostic agents for medical tests, vaccine development and the exploration of gene therapy for the treatment and/or prevention of diseases. Our students learn research skills and transferrable skills that will prepare them to make a difference as professional experts in the world.
Towards completing their research project, our postgraduate students work closely with our renowned research staff in various research groups.
Current postgraduate students can access their study portal here (MyEdu Portal)
Prospective postgraduate Students can view our entry requirements, duration of courses and range of courses here (link to pg courses will be added here)
In future, we hope to be able to offer Master of Philosophy (M.Phil) and some funded postgraduate studentship.
CAREER AND EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS
Our previous students have gone on to serve as Pharmaceutical Scientists and/or Educators and have made significant contributions in the Industry, Academia, Research Institutes, Hospitals, Government regulatory agencies and Federal Ministries.
PROGRAMMES OFFERED AND ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Programmes offered:
A. Master of Philosophy (M. Phil) in Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology
B. Master of Pharmacy/ Master of Science (M. Pharm/M. Sc.)
C. Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Admission Requirements
A. Master of Philosophy (M. Phil) in Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology
Candidates seeking admission into the M. Phil Degree Programme must possess:
A minimum entry requirement of five Ordinary level credits in English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology and Physics obtained from the West African School Certificate (WASC), Senior Secondary certificate Examination (SSCE) or its equivalent in not more than two sittings.
1.An undergraduate honours degree (with a minimum CGPA of 2.75 on a 5 point scale or 50%) from a recognized University in Pharmacy, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biology, Zoology, Combined Biological Sciences, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine or Medical Laboratory Sciences. Candidates with unclassified professional degrees in Pharmacy (B.Sc. Pharm., B. Pharm or PharmD), Medicine (MBBS or MBChB) or Dentistry (BDS) and Veterinary Medicine (DVM) are qualified without consideration to the above prerequisite for CGPA.
3.A Master Degree in Pharmaceutical Microbiology or Biotechnology or a Master Degree in Microbiology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Zoology (parasitology option), Medical Microbiology, Veterinary Microbiology or Medical Laboratory Sciences (microbiology option) from a recognized University and must have a weighted average of at least 50% or a CGPA of 3.0 minimum on a 5-point scale.
Candidates who are considered deficient in some areas of Pharmaceutical Microbiology may be required to take pre-requisite courses as may be deemed necessary.
B. Master of Pharmacy/Master of Science (M. Pharm/M. Sc.) in Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology
Candidates seeking admission into the M. Pharm/M. Sc. Degree Programme must possess:
1.A minimum entry requirement of five Ordinary level credits in English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology and Physics obtained from the West African School Certificate (WASC), Senior Secondary certificate Examination (SSCE) or its equivalent in not more than two sittings.
2.An undergraduate honours degree (with a minimum CGPA of 3.0 on a 5 point scale or 60%) from a recognized University in Pharmacy, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biology, Zoology, Combined Biological Sciences, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine or Medical Laboratory Sciences. Candidates with unclassified professional degrees in Pharmacy (B.Sc. Pharm., B. Pharm or PharmD), Medicine (MBBS or MBChB) or Dentistry (BDS) and Veterinary Medicine (DVM) are qualified without consideration to the above prerequisite for CGPA.
Candidates who are considered deficient in some areas of Pharmaceutical Microbiology may be required to take pre-requisite courses as may be deemed necessary.
C. Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology
Candidates seeking admission into the Ph.D. Degree Programme must possess:
1) A minimum entry requirement of five Ordinary level credits in English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology and Physics obtained in not more than two sittings
2) A Master Degree in Pharmaceutical Microbiology or Biotechnology or a Master Degree in Microbiology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Zoology (parasitology option), Medical Microbiology, Veterinary Microbiology or Medical Laboratory Sciences (microbiology option) from a recognized University and must have a weighted average of at least 60% (CGPA of 4.0 minimum on a 5-point scale).
AVAILABLE AREAS OF SPECIALIZATIONS
1. Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
2. Antimicrobial Evaluation
3. Vaccinology and Immunology
4. Quality Control and Formulation Microbiology
DURATION OF PROGRAMMES
Master of Philosophy (M. Phil) in Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology
Full Time: Minimum of 2 Semesters andMaximum of 4 Semesters
Part Time: Minimum of 3 Semesters and Maximum of 6 Semesters
B. Master of Pharmacy/ Master of Science (M. Pharm/M. Sc.)
Full Time Minimum of 3 Semesters andMaximum of 6 Semesters
Part Time Minimum of 4 Semesters and Maximum of 8 Semesters
C.Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Full Time Minimum of 6 Semesters and Maximum of 10 Semesters
Part Time Minimum of 8 Semesters and Maximum of 14 Semesters
TOTAL REQUIRED CREDIT FOR GRADUATION
M. Phil
Course Work – 20 Units
Thesis – 15 Units
Total – 35 Units
M. Pharm and M.Sc.
Course Work – 30 Units
Thesis – 12 Units
Total – 42 Units
Ph. D
Course Work – 9 Units
Seminar – 3 Units
Dissertation – 12 Units
Total – 30 Units
STAFF PROFILE
Name of staff Qualification Rank Specialisation List of publications
Charles Okechukwu ESIMONE B.Pharm (Nig) – 1995; M.Pharm (Nig) – 1998; PhD (Nig) – 2002 Professor Biopharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology 1.Oli Angus Nnamdi, AguRemigus Uchenna, Oli Ugochukwu Chinedum, Nwoye Charles Ugochukwu, Ejiofor Obiora Shedrack, Esimone Charles Okechukwu (2015). Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine 5(2), Feb. 2015,132–137
2.Okoye FBC, Debbab A, Wray V, Esimone CO, Osadebe PO, Proksch P. (2014). A Phenyldilactone, Bisnorsesquiterpene and Cytotoxic Phenolics from Maytenus senegalensis leaves. Tetrahedron Letters 55 (28): 3756-3760. DOI: 10.1016/ j.tetlet.2014.05.058
3. Okoye FBC, Nworu CS, Akah PA, Esimone CO, Debbab A, Proksch P. 2013. Inhibition of inflammatory mediators and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species by some depsidones and diaryl ether derivatives isolated from Corynesporacassiicola, an endophytic fungus of Gongronemalatifolium leaves. Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology 35(6): 662-668. DOI: 10.3109/08923973.2013.834930
Ifeoma Bessie ENWEANI B. Sc. – 1982, M. Sc. – 1985 PhD – 1998 Professor Medical Microbiology 1. Esebelahie, N.O; Enweani I.B; Newton-Esebelahie, O.F and Omoregie. R (2014): Candiduria among HIV – infected individuals attending a tertiary hospital in Benin- City, Nigeria. African Journal of Clinical & Experimental Microbiology 15(2): 84- 90.
2. N. O. Esebelahie, I. B. Enweani and R. Omoregie (2013): Candida colonization in asymptomatic HIV patients attending a tertiary hospital in Benin- City, Nigeria. Libyan Journal of Medicine 1:1-5.
3.Nnadi, N.E; Okolo, M.O; Orazio, R; Ayanbimpe, G.M; Fabio, S; Enweani, I.B; and Giuseppe, C (2013):Lack of Candida bracariensisand C. nivariensis in vaginal Candida glabrata isolates in Jos, Plateau State. African Journal of Microbiology Research 7 (35): 4480 – 4482
Anthony Amaechi ATTAMA B.Pharm (Nig) 1994; M.Pharm (Nig) 1998; PhD (Nig) 2002 Visiting Professor from UNN Physical Pharmaceutics & Drug Delivery Agubata C.O., Nzekwe I. T., Attama A. A., Müller-Goymann C.C., Onunkwo G.C. (2015). Formulation, characterization and anti-malarial activity of homolipid-based artemether microparticles Int. J. Pharm. 478, 202–222.
Ogbonna J.D.N., Kenechukwu F.C., Nwobi C.S., Chibueze O.S., Attama A.A. (2014). Formulation, in vitro and in vivo evaluation of halofantrine-loaded solid lipid microparticles. Pharm. Dev. Technol. Early Online: 1–8
Mbah C.C., Builders P.F., Nzekwe I.T., Kunle O., Adikwu, M.U., Attama A.A. (2014). Formulation and in vitro evaluation of pH-responsive ethosomes for vaginal delivery of metronidazole. J. Drug Del. Sci. Tech. 24 (6) 565-571.
Gordon C
IBEANU B.S. (1981)
M.S. (1982)
Ph.D. (1989) Visiting Associate Professor from USA Specialization:
Cell and Molecular Biology; Assay development; Drug Discovery;Neurodegenerative diseases; Quantitative Biology. Gliyazova NS, Ibeanu GC. The Chemical Molecule B355252 is Neuroprotective in an In Vitro Model of Parkinson’s Disease.2015, Cell & Molecular Neurobiol. Dec 9. [Epub ahead of print]. PMID:26649727
Tetteh AY, Sun KH, Hung CY, Kittur FS,Ibeanu GC, Williams D, Xie J. Transcriptional Response of Selenopolypeptide Genes and Selenocysteine Biosynthesis Machinery Genes in Escherichia coli during Selenite Reduction. Int J Microbiol. 2014;2014:394835. Epub 2014 Apr 15. PMID:24839442
Gliyazova NS, Huh EY, Ibeanu GC. A novel phenoxy thiophene sulphonamide molecule protects against glutamate evoked oxidative injury in a neuronal cell model. 2013, BMC Neurosci. Sep 2;14:93.
Nnaemeka Jude OKOYEH B. Sc, (1983)
M. Sc.(1986)
Ph.D (1992)
PostDoc (1996) Visiting Professor from USA Specializations:Cardiovascular system & Clinical pharmacology and Parasitology; Cell, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. Lougovskoi, A., Okoyeh, J. N. and V.S. Chauhan (2000). Mice immunized with synthetic Peptide from the N-terminal conserved region of merozoite surface antigen-2 of human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum can control infection induced by Plasmodium yoelliyoelli 265BY strain. Vaccine, 18: 920-930.
Okoyeh, J. N., C.R. Pillai and Chetan E. Chitnis (1999). Plasmodium falciparum field isolates commonly use erythrocytes invasion pathways that are independent of sialic acid residues of glycophorin A. Infection & Immunity, 67(11): 5784-5791.
Okoyeh J. N., L. Lege-Oguntoye, R. O. Ugbode, G. O. Ogunrinde (1997). Responses of multi-drug resistance Plasmodium falciparum to mefloquine in Nigerian children. Tropical Medicine & International Health, 2(4): 319-324.
Edward Chieke NWANEGBO MBBS (Nig), (1995)
Fellows (Pittsburgh) (2004)
MPH (Pittsburgh) (2008)
MD (Iowa) (2011) Visiting Professor from USA Specialization: Virology, Epidemiology/Public Health, Biotechnology, Clinical Pharmacology Duru Carissa, Nwanegbo Edward, Ejikeugwu Chika, Okonkwo Eucharia, Onyia Chukwuebuka, Esimone Charles. Prevalence and Antibiogram of Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase (ESBL)-Producing Enterobacteriaceae in Asymptomatic Individuals. Researcher 2015;7(10)
Ihekwereme CP, Esimone CO, Nwanegbo EC: Hemozoin inhibition and control of clinical malaria. Adv Pharmacol Sci. 2014; 2014:984150. doi: 10.1155/2014/984150. Epub 2014 Feb 9.
Nwanegbo EC, Swanson T, Vanderpuye O, Rios-Bedoya CF. Evaluation of rubella immunity in a community prenatal clinic. ISRN Family Med. 2013 Jan 15;2013:602130. doi: 10.5402/2013/602130. eCollection 2013.
Ikemefuna Chijioke UZOCHUKWU B. Pharm (Nig)1992; M. Pharm (Nig) 2003; PhD (Nig) 2007 Professor Quality Control and Bioinformatics Uzochukwu Ikemefuna C., Olubiyi, Olujide O. and Akpojotor, Clementina O. (2014) Determination of binding affinities of some approved drugs to ascaris suum mitochondrial rhodoquinol-fumarate reductase by in silico molecular docking, Journal of Pharmaceutical and Allied Sciences 11(2): 2114-2124.
Anukam, K. C., Osadolor, H. B. and Uzochukwu I. C (2014) In Silico Characterization of Heavy Metal Binding Protein Predicted In the Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus Pentosus KCA1, Nigerian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Applied Science Research 3(2): 1-8.
Nwobu, R. A. U., Uzochukwu, I. C. and Okoye, E. L. (2010) Phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial activity of Hyptissuaveolens, Medicinal Plants: Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Daya Publishing House, India Vol. 1: 390-396.
Festus Basden Chiedu OKOYE B. Pharm (Nig) 2000; M. Pharm (Nig)2003; PhD (Nig) 2009 Professor Natural Products Medicinal Chemistry and Biotechnology Damour H, Okoye FBC, Proksch P, Hakiki A, Mosaddak M, Hegazy MF, Debbab A. (2015). Pretrichodermamide A and Nafuredin from Trichoderma sp, an endophyte of Cola Nitida. Journal of Material and Environmental Sciences. 6(3): 779-783.
NkeomaNkasiOkoyea, Daniel Lotanna Ajaghakub, Henry Nnaemeka Okekeb, Emmanuel Emeka Ilodigweb, Chukwuemeka Sylvester Nworuc&Festus Basden C. Okoye. beta-Amyrin and alpha-amyrin acetate isolated from the stem bark of Alstoniaboonei display profound anti-inflammatory activity. Pharmaceutical Biology 52(11) 2014, 1478-1486, DOI:10.3109/13880209.2014.898078
Okoye FBC, Debbab A, Wray V, Esimone CO, Osadebe PO, Proksch P. (2014). A Phenyldilactone, Bisnorsesquiterpene and Cytotoxic Phenolics from Maytenus senegalensis leaves. Tetrahedron Letters 55 (28): 3756-3760. DOI: 10.1016/ j.tetlet.2014.05.058
Ifeanyichukwu Romanus IROHA B. Sc. (Nig) 1998;
M. Sc. (Nig) 2003;
PhD (Nig) 2007 Adjunct Senior Lecturer Pharmaceutical Microbiology and antimicrobial evaluation Iroha I.R., Esimone C.O., Neumann S., Marlinghaus L., Korte M., Szabados F., Gatermann S., Kasse M. (2012). First description of Escherichia coli producing CTX-M-15 extended spectrum beta lactamases (ESBLs) in outpatients from Southeastern, Nigeria. ACMA 11(19): 1-5.
Iroha Ifeanyichukwu Romanus, Nwakaeze Emmanuel Amobi, Oji Anthonia Egwu, Afiukwafelicita Ngozi, Okafor Florence Njideka, Nwosu Okechukwu Kenneth, Ayogu Thomas Eze, Oladimeji Sikiru (2012). Prevalence of drug-resistant strain of Streptococcus pneumoniae in Abakaliki. Amer. Jour. Infect. Dis. 8(3)115-119
Iroha I.R., Ayogu T.E. (2011). Antibiotics susceptibility patterns and clonal relatedness of uropathogenicEscherichia coli in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. Can. J. Pure App. Sci. Vol. 5(2): 1475-1479.
Chukwuemeka Sylvester NWORU B. Pharm (Nig) 2000; M. Pharm. 2002;
PhD 2007 Adjunct Senior Lecturer from UNN Immunopharmacology, Vaccinology Esimone CO, Akah PA, Nworu CS. Efficacy and safety assessment of T. Angelica herbal tonic, a phytomedicinal product popularly used in Nigeria. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011;2011:123036. doi: 10.1093/ecam/nep161. Epub 2011 Mar 9.
Esimone CO, Grunwald T, Nworu CS, Kuate S, Proksch P, Uberla K. Broad spectrum antiviral fractions from the lichen Ramalinafarinacea (L.) Ach. Chemotherapy. 2009;55(2):119-26. doi: 10.1159/000194974. Epub 2009 Jan 21.
Esimone, C., Nworu, C., & Jackson, C. (2008). Cutaneous wound healing activity of a herbal ointment containing the leaf extract of Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae). International Journal Of Applied Research In Natural Products, 1(4), 1-4.
Damian Chukwu ODIMEGWU B.Pharm (Nig) 2000
M. Pharm (Nig) 2007 Ph.D (Germany) 2014 Adjunct Senior Lecturer from UNN Virology, Immunology, Vaccinology Ruth A. Afunwa, Damian C. Odimewgu, Romanus I. Iroha, Charles O. Esimone (2014) Antibiotic combinatorial approach against extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) bacteria isolates from Enugu, South Eastern Nigeria. Journal of Health Sciences 4 (1): 19-25.
Dibua Uju M.E, Ugonabo J.A.C, Oladepo D, Iroha, I.R, Odimegwu D.C (2013) Genital Chlamydia and HIV co-infection: adverse pregnancy outcomes. American Journal of Research Communication 1 (12): 470-500.
Daowan Lai, Damian C. Odimegwu, Charles Esimone, Thomas Grunwald, Peter Proksch (2013) Phenolic Compounds with in vitroactivity against Respiratory Syncytial Virus from the Nigerian Lichen Ramalinafarinacea. Planta Medica. 79: 1-7.
Angus Nnamdi OLI B.Pharm (Nig) 1995;
M. Pharm (Nig) 2009; PhD (NAU) 2014 Associate
Prof Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Quality Control, Vaccinology Angus Nnamdi Oli*, Callistus Chibuike Ekejindu, Obiora Shedrack Ejiofor, Adaobi Helen Oli, Ifeanyi Ezeobi and Christian Chibuzo Ibeh. The Knowledge of and Attitude to Hospital-acquired Infections among Public and Private Healthcare Workers in South-East, Nigeria. British Journal of Medicine & Medical Research 2016, 11(3): 1-10, DOI: 10.9734/BJMMR/2016/18272
Oli Angus Nnamdi, AguRemigus Uchenna, Oli Ugochukwu Chinedum, Nwoye Charles Ugochukwu, Ejiofor Obiora Shedrack, Esimone Charles Okechukwu (2015). Safety evaluation in mice of the childhood immunization vaccines from two south-eastern states of Nigeria. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed 5(2), Feb. 2015, 132–137. doi: 10.1016/S2221-1691(15)30157-X
Oli AN, Agu RU, Nnadozie OJ, Onah CE, Okeke IJ and Esimone CO (2014). Potency and immunogenicity of Bacillus Calmette Guérin (BCG) vaccines used in routine immunization programme in South-East, Nigeria; African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology; Vol. 8(47), pp. 1186-1191, 22 December, 2014, DOI 10.5897/AJPP2014.4198
Malachy Chigozie UGWU B. Pharm (Nig) 2007; M. Pharm (Nig) 2010; PhD (NAU) 2015
Associate Prof
Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Drug Delivery
TN Akagha, TH Gugu, EC Enemor, PC Ejikeugwu, BC Ugwu and MC Ugwu. Prevalence and antibiogram of salmonella species and staphylococcus aureus in retail meats sold in Awka metropolis, southeast Nigeria. International Journal of Biological & Pharmaceutical Research 11/2015; 6(12):924-929.
Utkarshini Anand, Ankit Parikh, Malachy C Ugwu and Remigius U Agu. Drug transporters in the nasal epithelium: An overview of strategies in targeted drug delivery. Future medicinal chemistry 08/2014; 6(12):1381-1397. DOI:10.4155/fmc.14.77
Tiam Feridooni, Ankit Parikh · Utkarshini Anand, MC Ugwu, Emad Massoud and Remigius U. Agu. Drug-Eluting Nasal Implants: Formulation, Characterization, Clinical Applications and Challenges. Pharmaceutics 05/2014; 6(2):249-267. DOI:10.3390/pharmaceutics6020249
Ikegbunam Moses B.Sc (Nig) 2007; MSc(Nig) 2012; PhD (NAU) 2017
Senior Lecturer Antimicrobial Resistance, Molecular Biology, Malaria Genetics, Antimicrobial Drug Evaluations 1. Krueger, T.; Ikegbunam, M.; Lissom, A.; Sandri, T.L.; Ntabi, J.D.M.; Djontu, J.C.; Baina, M.T.; Lontchi, R.A.L.; Maloum, M.; Ella, G.Z.; Romuald Agonhossou.; Romaric Akoton.; Luc Djogbenou.; Steffen Borrmann.; Jana Held.; Francine Ntoumi.; Ayola Akim Adegnika.; Peter Gottfried Kremsner.; and Andrea Kreidenweiss .Low Prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum Histidine-Rich Protein 2and 3 Gene Deletions—A Multiregional Study in Central and West Africa. Pathogens 2023, 12, 455.https://doi.org/10.3390/ pathogens12030455
2. Ikegbunam MN, Anagu LO, Duru C, Nworu CS, Esimone CO, Ojurongbe O. Genetic diversity and allelic frequency of antigenic markers in Plasmodium falciparum isolates from Nnewi district in Nigeria. J Infect Dev Ctries. 2022 Mar 31;16(3):557-563. doi: 10.3855/jidc.14815.PMID: 35404863
3. Ikegbunam MN, Uba C, Flügge J, Abone H, Ezeagwuna D, Ushie S, Esimone C. Malaria surveillance amongst pregnant women attending antenatal care in private hospitals in Onitsha metropolis, Southeastern Nigeria. Malariaworld J. 2022 Feb 1; 13:2. eCollection 2022.PMID: 35813272.
Chukwunwejim Chidimma Ruth B. Pharm (Nig) 2011; M. Pharm (Nig) 2014; PhD (NAU) 2021
Lecturer 1
Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Antibiotic Resistance
1. Ude, I. U., Moses, I. B., Okoronkwo, C., Ovia K., Okafor, C., Chukwunwejim, C. R.,Okata-Nwali, O. D., Iroha, C. S., Akuma, S., Peter, I. U., Uzoeto, H. O., Ngwu, J. N., Onuorah, A. L., John-Onwe, B. N and Iroha, I. R. (2021). Phytochemical properties and antimicrobial activity of Buchholzia coriacea and Psychotriamicrophylla leaf extracts on bacterial pathogens isolated from aquatic environments in Nigeria. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, Vol. 15(6), 232-240.
2. Chidimma Ruth, C.,Emelumadu, N., Ebenebe, I. N., Egbuna, R. N., Ugochukwu, J. I. and Eze, P. M. (2022). Bed Linen: A Reservoir of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacterial Pathogens. Journal of Current Biomedical Research, 2(4): 311–316. https://doi.org/10.54117/jcbr.v2i4.7
3. Ngwu, J.N., Uzoeto, H.O., Emaimo, J., Okorie, C., Mohammed, I.D., Edemekong, C.I., Peter, I.U., Ezeh, C, Chukwu E., Adimora E.E., Ani, S.E, Oke, B., Moses, I.B., Nwakaeze, E.A., Out J.O., Chukwunwejim, C.R., Egbuna, R.N, Ikusika, B.A., Adagiri, P.A. and Iroha, I.R. (2022). Antibiogram of Biofilm Forming Oral Streptococci Species Isolated from Dental Caries Patients Visiting Federal College of Dental Technology and Therapy, Enugu Nigeria. International Journal of Research and Reports in Dentistry. 5(1): 12-25.
COURSE DISTRIBUTION
(M. PHIL)
First Semester
Course Credit
PMB 801: Research Methods in Pharmaceutical Microbiology & Biotechnology (core) 4
PMB 805: Laboratory Instruction Orientations and Scientific Communication (core) 3
PMB 851: Principles and Applications of Basic Molecular Biology(Option 1) 3
PMB 853: Principles and development of Culture Mediafor Biotech processes (Option 1) 3
PMB 865: Natural products Antimicrobial Agents (Option 2) 3
PMB 867: Antimicrobial Agents interactions and evaluation (Option 2) 3
PMB 871: Vaccine Immunology (Option 3) 3
PMB 873: Vaccine Development and of the future (Option 3) 3
PMB 885: Microbiological Quality Control of Pharmaceuticals (Option 4) 3
PMB 887: Formulation of Antimicrobial Agents and Sterile Products (Option 4) 3
Total Credits 13
Second Semester
Course Credit
PMB 806: Bioinformatics for Biomedical Scientists (core) 4
PMB 852: Cell Culture Techniques in Drug Development(Option 1) 3
PMB 866: Advanced antimicrobial agents evaluation (Option 2) 3
PMB 872: cGMP in Immunological Products Manufacturing(Option 3) 3
PMB 886: Advanced Sterilization Techniques (Option 4) 3
PMB 894: Thesis (Core) 15
Total Credits 22
M. PHARM./M.SC
First Semester
Course Credit
PMB 801: Research Methods in Pharmaceutical Microbiology & Biotechnology (core) 4
PMB 803: Microbial Genetics and Resistance (core) 2
PMB 805: Laboratory Instruction Orientations and Scientific Communication (core) 3
PMB 841: Principles and Applications of Recombinant DNA Technology (Option 1) 3
PMB 843: Principles and Applications of Microbial Fermentation (Option 1) 3
PMB 845: Sources of Antimicrobial Agents (Option 2) 3
PMB 847: Evaluation of Antimicrobial Agents (Option 2) 3
PMB 881: Advanced Pharmaceutical Immunology (Option 3) 3
PMB 883: Vaccine Development (Option 3) 3
PMB 885: Microbiological Quality Control of Pharmaceuticals (Option 4) 3
PMB 887: Formulation of Antimicrobial Agents and Sterile Products (Option 4) 3
Total Credits 15
Second Semester
Course Credit
PMB 802 Advanced General Pharmaceutical Microbiology (core) 3
PHM 804: Applied Biostatistics (core) 3
PMB 806: Bioinformatics for Biomedical Scientists (core) 4
PMB 842: Applications of Cell Culture Techniques in Drug Development (Option 1) 3
PMB 844: Gene Therapy (Option 1) 2
PMB 846: Anti-parasitic and antiviral drug evaluation (Option 2) 3
PMB 848: Pharmacokinetic-Pharmaco-dynamic Evaluation of Antibiotics (Option 2) 2
PMB 882: The Manufacture and Quality Control of Immunological Products (Option 3) 2
PMB 884: Adjuvants, Immunomodulators and Adaptogens (Option 3) 3
PMB 886: Advanced Sterilization Techniques (Option 4) 3
PMB 888: Factory and Hospital Hygiene (Option 4) 2
Total Credits 15
Third Semester
Course Credit
PMB 892: Thesis (Core) 12
First Semester First year
Course Credit
PMB 901: Advanced Antimicrobial Evaluation Methods (Core) 3
PMB 981: Advanced Vaccine Targeting Strategies (Option 3) 3
PMB 983: Animal Models for Infectious Diseases (Option 4 ) 3
Ph. D
Second Semester First year
Course Credit
PMB 902: Advanced Molecular Genetics (Core) 3
PMB 982: Applications of Nanomedicines in the treatment of Infectious Diseases (Options 1 and 2) 3
PMB 904: Seminar: Research Grant and Proposal Writing (Core) 3
Second and Third years
Course Credit
PMB 990: Dissertation (Core) 18
Overall Total Credit 30
COURSE DESCRIPTION
M.phil/M.pharm/M.sci
PMB 801: Research Methods in Pharmaceutical Microbiology & Biotechnology (4 Credits)
A survey of basic laboratory equipment; Preparation of buffers and culture media for bacteriological, mycological, virological and protozoal studies; Modern techniques for identification of microorganisms; A detailed study of theories and applications of various microbiological and biotechnological research techniques including agar diffusion assay, broth dilution assay, kill kinetics, recombinant DNA technology, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Sequencing, Reporter gene-based assay techniques, ELISA, Flow cytometry, Western, Southern and Northern Blotting, Gel electrophoresis-based methods, Microarray techniques; Protein purification; Bioinformatics, proteomic and genomic tools used in biotechnology.
PMB 802: Advanced General Pharmaceutical Microbiology (3 Credits)
Structure, physiology and biochemistry of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa) of biomedical importance with particular emphases on microbial targets of conventional and novel antimicrobials and possible economic importance of the microbes; Microbial isolation and characterization; classification and evaluation of antimicrobial agents; Sterile pharmaceuticals; immunity and immune responses; antigen-antibody reactions.
PMB 803: Microbial Genetics and Resistance (2 Credits)
A study of the current status of microbial genetics and genomics; biochemical bases for antimicrobial action, biochemical and genetic basis of microbial resistance to antimicrobial agents; strategies for combating microbial resistance to antimicrobial agents
PHM 804: Applied Biostatistics (3 Credits)
Biostatistical definitions: Variance, Standard Deviation and Standard Error. Normal Distribution; Confidence Limits; Meaning and uses of statistics; Frequency distribution; Sampling and sampling techniques, questionnaire design; Measures of central tendency and measures of dispersion; Probability and probability distribution; Estimation, Point and interval estimation; Test of hypothesis; Regression and correlation; Chi-Square; Null Hypothesis, T-test; Analysis of Variance, one way and two way ANOVA; Simple non-parametric tests; Latin Square Design; Randomized complete Block Design; Missing Data; Sub sampling; Transformation; Analysis of clinical trials; Application; Fertility indicators and positive health indicator and index;
Pictorial presentation of data: pie chat, bar charts, etc; Risk assessment, odd ratios etc; study of various computer packages relevant in solving pharmaceutical and biomedical problems.
PMB 805: Laboratory Instruction Orientations and Scientific Communication (3 Credits)
This involves participation in the preparation and instruction of undergraduate practicals in Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology as a teaching assistant followed by the submission of a written report in the form of a Log book. Principles, practice, modes and methods of scientific communication, communicating scientific findings to the public, Manuscript preparation for scientific journal – philosophy and principles, Multimedia presentations
PMB 806: Bioinformatics for Biomedical Scientists (4 Credits)
What is bioinformatics? History and origin of bioinformatics. Definitions and scope of bioinformatics. Glossary of terms. Overview of bioinformatics and applications in biomedical research. Visualization of biomolecules using VMD, PyMol etc. History of the human genome project and important tropical pathogens such as Plasmodium. Students should prepare an updated table of important genome projects. Basic skills in using the Web in bioinformatics. Definition and discussion of the `omics´, gene annotation, genome association studies. Pharmaceutical significance of bioinformatics. Examples of their application in the pharmaceutical sciences e.g. DNA barcodes. Gene annotation, Protein structure prediction, sequence analysis and alignment using TCoffee, DaliLiteetc, evolutionary and phylogenetic analysis, algorithms in protein analysis. Introduction to biological and chemical databases, molecular modeling and bioinformatics-based drug design
PMB 841: Principles and Applications of Recombinant DNA Technology (3 Credits)
Review of structure, properties, functions and biosynthesis of DNA, RNA and proteins. The genetic code and its relationship to cellular function. DNA replication in cell-free system. Elements of genetic engineering: cloning strategies; bacteria transformation; transfection techniques; Gene mapping and Genomes. Applications of recombinant DNA technology in the production of pharmaceuticals, biomedical and agricultural products.
PMB 842: Applications of Cell Culture Techniques in Drug Development (3 Credits)
Historical discussion of the application of cell cultures in biomedical research;in vitro cell culture as an alternative to whole animals in biomedical research. Types of cell culture- primary, secondary, immortal cell lines; adherent and suspension cells; Basic procedures in maintenance and preservation of cell lines; A concise introduction to cell lines and techniques used in the in vitro screening of drugs for various diseases such as cancer, HIV/AIDS and other viral diseases, diabetes, malaria; Preparation and uses of primary cells such as B-cells, Dendritic cells, Splenocytes etc for immunological screening studies; use of immortal cell lines for evaluating drug transport etc.
PMB 843: Principles and Applications of Microbial Fermentation (3 Credits)
Principles of fermentation technology. Microorganisms involved in fermentation process including their sources, characteristics and their large scale production. Industrial products of microbial origin such as antibiotics, vitamins, enzymes, organic acids etc. Yeast technology. Design and operation of fermentation equipment.
PMB 844: Gene Therapy (2 Credits)
Principle of Gene therapy; Historical perspectives and current status; viral and non-viral vectors used in gene therapy; applications of gene therapy in the treatment of various diseases; suicide gene therapy; regulatory aspects in the applications of gene therapy technology.
PMB 845: Sources of Antimicrobial Agents (3 Credits)
A detailed discussion of the various diverse sources of antimicrobial agents including microorganisms, lower plants, higher plants, vertebrates, invertebrates and other miscellaneous sources such as chemical synthesis, examples and properties/spectrum of antimicrobial agents from these sources would be highlighted.
PMB 846: Anti-parasitic and antiviral drug evaluation (3 Credits)
Brief description of life/replicative cycles of various parasites and viruses of public health importance, highlighting possible targets for anti-parasitic and antiviral drugs. In vitro and in vivo methods for the evaluation of antimalarial, anti-trypanosomidal, anti-leishmanial, anti-amoebic and anti-helminthic drugs. In vitro methods for screening and evaluating the effect of various standard and potential antiviral drugs against various RNA and DNA viruses of public health importance including (but not limited to) HIV, SARS, RSV, HSV, Ad5, HBV and HCV etc. Animal models for evaluating the efficacy of various antiviral drugs
PMB 847: Evaluation of Antimicrobial Agents (3 Credits)
Properties of the ideal antimicrobial agent. In vitro methods of evaluating Disinfectants, Antiseptics, Preservatives, Antibiotics including (but not limited to) the phenol coefficient tests, Kelsey-Sykes and improved Kelsey-Sykes tests, Microbial Challenge Tests, MIC, MBC; evaluation of antimicrobial interactions using various methods- checkerboard, Decimal Assay for Additivity (DAA), Time kill, overlay inoculum susceptibility disc test method; Principles and applications of antibiotic bioassay; culture and sensitivity test. Animal models for evaluating the efficacy of various antibacterial and antifungal drugs.
PMB 848: Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Antibiotics (2 Credits)
The concept of Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) modelling. Review of relevant PK and PD parameters and methods of evaluating them. Various PK-PD models applied to antibiotic evaluation. Use of PK-PD models in predicting antibiotic resistance
PMB 881: Advanced Pharmaceutical Immunology (3 Credits)
Components of humoral and cellular immunity; a detailed treatise of immunoglubulins and antibody systems; antibody structure and formation; monoclonal antibodies; antigenic structure and evasion mechanisms of some viruses and parasites; antigen-antibody reactions; complement; Blood groups; hypersensitivity; Tissue Transplantation and immune response to tumours; prophylactic and therapeutic applications of immunological products.
PMB 882: The Manufacture and Quality Control of Immunological Products (2 Credits)
A concise review of various immunological products such as vaccines, immunosera, human immunoglobulins and monoclonal antibodies including techniques for their manufacture. Quality control of immunological products-in-process and final product control including identity tests, potency assay, safety tests, sterility tests, pyrogen tests and other tests of general application.
PMB 883: Vaccine Development (3 Credits)
Description of various classes of vaccines including live-attenuated, killed and, sub-unit vaccines. Recombinant vaccine design, including the design of engineered attenuated vaccines, recombineered sub-unit vaccines and DNA vaccines. In vitro methods of evaluating vaccines such as gene expression studies, protein expression studies via Western blotting, ELISA, Flow cytometry; evaluation of immunogenicity in vitro and in animal models; preclinical evaluation of vaccines (safety and efficacy studies in animals); clinical trials of biotechnological vaccines.
PMB 884: Adjuvants, Immunomodulators and Adaptogens (3 Credits)
The concept of immunomodulation and adaptogenicity and their relationship to immunology. Evaluation of potential immunomodulators and adaptogenes. Adjuvants-their nature, properties and mechanisms of action. Medicinal plants as sources of potential adjuvants, immunomodulators and adaptogens.
PMB 885: Microbiological Quality Control of Pharmaceuticals (3 Credits)
Microbiological quality of sterile and non-sterile pharmaceuticals including evaluation of microbial load, sterility tests, pyrogen tests, assay of drug potency; microbiological quality of cell culture and other biotechnological media; Quality control in industrial fermentation processes; Review of various official and non-official microbiological regulatory standards for pharmaceuticals; quality control of laminar flow cabinet;
PMB 886: Advanced Sterilization Techniques (3 Credits)
A review of various sterilization protocols. Kinetics of thermal destruction or inactivation. Time-survivor curves. D-value, Z-value, F-value, Inactivation factor.
Types of autoclaves: the steam autoclave, vacuum pump autoclaves and ballasted autoclaves, spray-cooled autoclaves. Continuous versus discontinuous autoclaving; the economics of continuous autoclaving. The hydromantic sterilizer. Advanced studies on Ethylene Oxide, B-propionolactone, Formaldehyde, Ozone, Peracetic acid, methyl bromide, propylene glycol. Inactivation by ionizing radiation; sterilization of biotechnological products.
PMB 887: Formulation of Antimicrobial Agents and Sterile Products (3 Credits)
Physico-chemical, biopharmaceutical and therapeutic considerations in the design of dosage forms. Control methods to ensure standardization of antimicrobial agents in oral, topical and rectal dosage forms. Formulation of injections and non-injectable sterile fluids, Ophthalmic preparation, sterile dressings, implants and absorbable haemostats etc. Preservation of Pharmaceuticals, including multiphase systems.
PMB 888: Factory and Hospital Hygiene (2 Credits)
Sources of contamination of in factories and hospitals; Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) that enhance microbiological quality of pharmaceuticals; Design of clean areas: Surfaces, Pipes and ducts, Drains and Sinks. Provision of clean air; Air samplers. Clothing, changing facilities. Disinfectant policy in hospitals and factories.
PMB 892: Thesis (12 Credits)
Researched and adequately analyzed results of the data which must contribute to the overall knowledge and insight of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology.
Course description
Doctorate degree programmes
PMB 901: Advanced Antimicrobial Evaluation Methods (3 Credits)
An overview of recent methods of evaluating antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral agents. Assay methods for various viral target enzymes such as reverse transcriptase, Integrase, proteases etc. A concise appraisal of methods for evaluating various antiprotozoal and/or anti-parasitic agents; evaluation of larvicidal, pupicidal and insect-repellant properties of compounds. Evaluation of drugs against special features including (but not limited to) biofilm formation, anti-cariogenic properties, cytotoxicity. In vitro antimicrobial pharmacodynamics.
PMB 902: Advanced Molecular Genetics (3 Credits)
Principles of gene cloning. A discussion on the applications of genetic and genomic software. Strategies for cloning eukaryotic genes into prokaryotic plasmids; shuttle vectors. Principles and applications of forwards and reverse genetics; Interpreting DNA and protein sequencing; Applications of Bioinformatics in the Biomedical Sciences; a treatise on the concepts of genomics, proteomics and their various applications in drug and vaccine design, drug discovery and evaluation etc.
PMB 904: Seminar: Research Grant and Proposal Writing (3 Credits)
Defense of a proposal for a research grant written on any selected topic of current relevance after the approval of the supervisor and/or the Departmental PG Coordinator;this seminar must hold in the second semester of the second year of the programme.
PMB 981: Advanced Vaccine Targeting Strategies (3 Credits)
A detailed review of the MHC system, dendritic cells and their receptors, Toll-like receptors and other specialized immune receptors that are currently being elucidated as vaccine targets. Strategies for targeting vaccines to Dendritic cell receptors and Toll-like receptors; strategies for targeting vaccines to tumor cells; Viral-like particles as vaccine candidates.
PMB 982: Applications of Nanomedicines in the treatment of Infectious Diseases (3 Credits)
A concise discussion on the various applications of nanomedicine in the treatment of HIV/AIDS, Malaria, TB, and other infectious diseases. Their mechanisms of action and advantages will be highlighted.
PMB 983: Animal Models for Infectious Diseases (3 Credits)
A detailed discussion on the development of animal models for various infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Malaria, Tuberculosis, SARS, Respiratory Syncytial virus, Influenza, typhoid fever, candidiasis, superficial mycosis, pneumonia etc. Methods of evaluating the efficacy of anti-microbial drugs, vaccines and biotechnological products in animal models.
PMB 990: Doctoral Dissertation (18 Credits)
Thoroughly researched and adequately analyzed results of the data which must contribute significantly to the overall knowledge and insight of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology.