At the end of the course, students will have acquired the fundamental concepts of molecular biology applied to biotechnology. In particular, they will learn:
(1) In-depth knowledge of cellular RNAs. (2) The use of RNAs for research and therapeutic purposes. (3) In-depth knowledge of protein biochemistry. (4) The most recent strategies for modifying protein structure/function. (5) The ability to analyze a protein and predict potential interactions with other proteins; (6) Basics of Protein Design.
Course Prerequisites
Knowledge of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Notions of Inorganic/organic chemistry
Teaching Methods
The course is structured through lectures and practical experiences in the laboratory. Regarding the lectures, PowerPoint presentations are used, which will be made available to students in the dedicated section on the Moodle KIRO platform. Scientific articles referenced in the lectures will also be provided on the KIRO platform. During the frontal lectures, we will aim to directly engage students for a more facile and intuitive learning experience using interactive tools.
During the laboratory sessions, students will be guided in the purification of recombinant proteins and in the growth of protein crystals for research purposes. Participation in both the lectures and sessions is strongly recommended. Laboratory sessions are mandatory.
Assessment Methods
The exam will be mixed. The System Biology portion will consist of multiple-choice questions (15 questions, with one correct answer per question) and will be taken in a computer lab. The RNA Technologies and Protein Engineering portion, on the other hand, will be assessed through an oral exam. This will take place in the same computer lab, on the same day, following the written exam, and will cover the topics addressed during lectures and laboratory sessions. Students will be evaluated on how well they have integrated the knowledge acquired in the two modules, and a single grade will be recorded for both modules.
Texts
Watson (et. al.), Biologia Molecolare del Gene, 2022.
Allison, Fondamenti di Biologia Molecolare, 2023, Zanichelli.
State-of-the-art scientific papers
Contents
RNA Technologies Overview siRNA microRNA CRISPR/Cas9 mRNA vaccines Protein Engineering Introduction to proteins Understanding Protein Folding Mutations .vs. Functions Traditional protein engineering Protein Design
Course Language
English
More information
The exam grade will remain valid for one academic year, until all modules of the integrated course have been completed.
