Ratnakar Deole, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Virology, Immunology & Microbiology
Director of Graduate Studies for Virology, Immunology & Microbiology
Course Director, Dental Microbiology & Immunology
(SDM MD 515, GMS OH 740)
B.S. University of Mumbai
M.S. University of Mumbai
Ph.D. Oklahoma State University
Dental Microbiology & Immunology
Dental Microbiology and Immunology is one of the basic science courses that comprise the preclinical curriculum of the first year of dental school. The overall goal of these courses is to provide students with the knowledge and understanding of the scientific principles that are the basis of current approaches to the practice of dentistry. The application of these scientific principles and knowledge to the practice of dentistry, including the development of life-long learning and problem-solving skills, is emphasized. This goal provides foundational support for the BUSDM General Dentistry Practice Competencies and is consistent with the objectives of National Board Dental Examination, Part I. The Dental Microbiology and Immunology course consists of 46 lectures and 5 Integrated Problems Sessions. Lecturers from both basic science and clinical disciplines teach the fundamental principles of microbiology and immunology and how these principles apply to the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases.
The overall goals of this course are to provide students with:
1. a basic background in microbiology, including the nomenclature, structure, physiology, genetics, mechanisms of pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations associated with the major pathogenic microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, parasites, prions, and viruses).
2. an understanding of how the basic principles of microbiology are integral to effective diagnosis, treatment and prevention of infectious disease.
3. a basic background in immunology including the functions and disorders of the immune system.