Learning objectives
The aim of the course is to illustrate the basic methods of recombinant technologies and their applications in microbes, plants and animals.
Prerequisites
Some previous knowledge of biology, botany, microbiology, chemistry and biochemistry.
Course unit content
1. Basic module of "Recombinant Technologies".
Fundamental principles of gene cloning - Enzymes used for recombinant DNA technology - Isolation and purification of genomic and plasmid DNA -
Electrophoresis of nucleic acids - Cloning vectors for bacteria - Phage vectors: lambda and M13 - In vitro DNA synthesis (PCR) - Mutagenesis mediated by PCR - Eukaryotic cloning vectors - Construction and analysis of genomic libraries - mRNA purification and cDNA synthesis - Construction and analysis of cDNA libraries - DNA sequencing.
2. Genetic engineering of plants and animals.
Cloning in plants. Cloning vectors for plant organisms – Transformation methods for plant organisms - Transgenic plants.
Cloning in animal cells and applications in health field. Selection systems for animal cells - Gene transfer into animal cells - Cloning vectors for animal cells. Gene therapy: principles and methods - Experimental models.
Full programme
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Bibliography
- Gene Cloning and DNA Analysis: An Introduction, 7th Edition. Terry A. Brown. Zanichelli
- Dai geni ai genomi. Dale, von Schantz. EdiSES
- Analisi dei geni e genomi. Richard J. Reece. EdiSES
- Ingegneria genetica. Principi e tecniche. S. Primrose et al. Zanichelli
- DNA Ricombinante - J.D. Watson et al. Zanichelli
- Molecular biotechnology: principles and applications of recombinant DNA. Bernard R. Glick
- Molecular biology: principles of genome function. Nancy L. Craig. Oxford university press
- Ingegneria Genetica. S.M. Kingsman, AJ Kingsman. Piccin
- Genetica generale e umana (volume secondo). L. De Carli, E. Boncinelli, G.A. Danieli, L. Larizza. Piccin
Teaching methods
It is conducted through:
1. theoretical classes by the teacher, followed by the individual work by the student for preparation
2. seminars
3. training in classroom
4. training in laboratory
Teaching methods may vary due to the health emergency.
Assessment methods and criteria
The exam is organized in two written tests (relating to the basic module of "Recombinant Technologies" and the module of "Genetic Engineering of Plants and Animals") on the different parts of the course.
In both cases to be admitted to the examination the student should prepare a report on laboratory training that will be evaluated during the examination.
The written exam and the "laboratory report" verifies knowledge and application of knowledge to solve practical problems.
Other information
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