This course offers a solid foundation in Molecular Biology, essential for more advanced coursework within the master's program. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of fundamental processes, such as DNA replication, transcription, translation, and protein folding in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems. In addition, the course provides both theoretical insight and practical experience with standard techniques for nucleic acid manipulation and recombinant protein expression, commonly used in molecular biology research.
Prerequisiti
Biochemistry is required knowledge and if needed, MDB students can acquire it from the course “Basic Biochemistry” (1st semester 1st year).
Metodi didattici
The course includes lectures supported by active student participation through group discussions and presentations on key scientific discoveries and relevant literature. Throughout the course, we will explore the main methods and applications of Molecular Biology, focusing in particular on laboratory techniques for manipulating DNA and modifying genetic material, both during lectures and practical sessions. Guided bioinformatic exercises using computers will also be included, depending on class size. Teaching methods are adapted to support the needs of diverse student groups, including working students, students with disabilities, and family caregivers.
Verifica Apprendimento
Assessment is entirely oral and consists of two parts. The main oral exam, worth up to 28 out of 30 points, will evaluate the student’s understanding of the topics covered in the lectures and their ability to integrate this knowledge with the experimental approaches discussed in class. In addition, each student will give an oral presentation using slides (e.g., PowerPoint) on an enzyme involved in the "central dogma" and its role in disease. This presentation, delivered to the class, will be evaluated and can contribute up to 2 additional points toward the final mark.
Testi
The course will incorporate scientific articles/reviews, and videos which are made available to students together the lecture slides on the Kiro platform. It is recommended to supplement the lecture slides with a molecular biology textbook. Any molecular biology textbook will be suitable for this purpose, such as:-Lewin's GENES XII by Jocelyn E. Krebs, Elliott S. Goldstein, Stephen T. Kilpatrick; -Molecular Biology, 2nd Edition. Michael M. Cox, Jennifer Doudna, Michael O'Donnell.
Contenuti
Part I-Molecular basis of information transfer from DNA to RNA to protein; protein folding. Part II-Principles of molecular biology techniques: gene libraries; PCR; cloning; sequencing; mutagenesis; library screening; recombinant expression of genes; fusion proteins; elements of genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics; basic elements of bioinformatics and structural biology.
Lingua Insegnamento
INGLESE
Altre informazioni
Please contact the teacher if you cannot attend class regularly.
