Between the Living and the Dead

Author:	Kari A. Mergenhagen Infectious Disease James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center kari.mergenhagen2@va.gov
Abstract:	As Jen pores over her introductory biology textbook, she falls asleep and enters a nightmarish world in which bacteria and viruses dwarf human beings. This engagingly written case explores the differences between viruses and bacteria while teaching about the basic components and “life” cycle of a T-even bacteriophage. The case includes a follow-up assignment in which students explore the risks and potential benefits of using bacteriophage to control bacterial disease. The case is appropriate for general biology and microbiology college courses as well as AP biology high school classes.
Objectives:	Describe the differences between virus, bacteria, and bacteriophage. Explain the basic components and the life cycle of a T-even bacteriophage. Understand the indirect effect bacteriophages have on people. Explain the classification and history of bacteriophage. Appreciate the risk and potential in using bacteriophage to control bacterial disease.
Keywords:	Bacteriophage; virus; bacterium; bacteria; T-even bacteriophage; phage; virion; infectious disease; antibiotic resistant; antibiotic resistance
Topical Area:	N/A
Educational Level:	High school, Undergraduate lower division
Formats:	PDF
Type/Method:	Discussion, Student Presentations
Language:	English
Subject Headings:	Biology (General) Microbiology
Date Posted:	11/05/02
Date Modified:	N/A
Copyright:	Copyright held by the National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science, University at Buffalo, State University of New York. Please see our usage guidelines, which outline our policy concerning permissible reproduction of this work.

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