The course aims to provide knowledge of the molecular basis of the main cellular processes and the main techniques of molecular biology. The expected learning outcomes are the following: - knowledge and ability to understand the molecular mechanisms of fundamental cellular processes, such as DNA replication, transcription, protein synthesis. - knowledge of the functioning of the main techniques used in molecular biology and their experimental applications.
Course Prerequisites
Basic knowledge in Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics, besides the basics on cellular components, is virtually a must for successfully following and tackling the course.
Teaching Methods
The course is organized in two parts: the first (6 CFU) deals with the various biological processes at molecular level, whereas the second (3 CFU) describes the basic techniques of molecular biology. Both are carried out by lectures and NO practicals are included because the methods will be fully covered during the laboratory activities in the third year.
Assessment Methods
The exam consists of an oral exam in which the student will be asked to reply on questions related to both course parts and, if sufficient, the final mark (agreed by both teachers) will be on a scale range of 18 to 30 cum laude.
Texts
- Molecular Biology of the cell, 7th Edition, Alberts et al, Garlanda Science -Bruce Alberts, Karen Hopkin, Alexander Johnson, David Morgan, Martin Raff, Keith Roberts, Peter Walter L'ESSENZIALE DI BIOLOGIA MOLECOLARE DELLA CELLULA Quinta edizione 2020 -Bruce Alberts, Alexander Johnson, Julian Lewis, David Morgan, Martin Raff, Keith Roberts, Peter Walter BIOLOGIA MOLECOLARE DELLA CELLULA Sesta edizione 2016
Contents
The main theme of the course is the study of the biological macromolecules and their function in fundamental biological processes. Structure and function of DNA. DNA replication. Transcription and its regulation. Translation: structure and function of ribosomes Protein synthesis e folding mechanisms in vivo and in vitro. Methods for DNA manipulation and cloning.
Course Language
Italian
More information
No practicals are included as this course is dispensed as lectures. During the 3rd year the course "Laboratorio Integrato" will incluse practicals on the techniques. For students who certify that they are in one of the categories indicated by the University (disabled, workers, etc.) the teachers will be able to provide support based on what is indicated by the University, or through meetings for clarifications on certain topics of the course and possibly providing the corresponding videotapes of lessons from past years that include those specific topics.
