Learning objectives
1) make the student acquire the theoretical bases in molecular biology applied to Parasitology and Parasitic Animal Diseases;
2) provide the student with the theoretical and practical bases of laboratory molecular diagnostics in Veterinary Parasitology.
Expected learning outcomes:
1) acquisition of theoretical knowledge on the biology of parasites which, in Europe, are of greater importance from a hygienic-social, zoo-economic and clinical point of view;
2) ability to operate correctly for the purposes of collecting biological samples and their subsequent molecular analysis in the laboratory for the search for parasites.
The interactivity of the lectures and above all of the exercises helps to stimulate problem solving skills.
Prerequisites
none
Course unit content
The course will illustrate how to apply biomolecular techniques for the diagnosis, study of the epidemiology and etiopathogenesis of parasitic animal diseases. Furthermore, the latest sustainable methods of controlling parasitic infections, including the so-called “hidden vaccines”, will be discussed thoroughly and critically.
Full programme
Introduction to parasitology
Protozoa:Toxoplasma gondii
Helminths: Filarioidea
Cestoda: Echinococcus granulosus
Artropoda: ticks
Bibliography
Notes and slides; book: Parassitologia Veterinaria, Urquart et al, (ed. Genchi C.), UTET, 2006;
Genchi M, Traldi G, Genchi C, Manuale di Parassitologia Veterinaria, Casa Editrice Ambrosiana (2010).
Teaching methods
the course takes place in 14 hours of theoretical frontal teaching, with power point slides, and 4 hours of practical teaching in the laboratory (for a total of 2 credits). At least one laboratory experience will be done.
The slides are considered an integral part of the teaching material. Non-attending students are reminded to check the available teaching material and the information provided by the teacher via the Elly platform.
Assessment methods and criteria
Students will be asked to prepare a power point presentation on a parasite of their choice illustrating the parasite's biology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, possible zoonotic risk, diagnosis, treatment as well as the use of possible new therapeutic treatments and preventives (e.g. new vaccines).
At the end of the presentation, the examining commission will ask the candidate 1-2 questions on the topic presented.
The scores for achieving the maximum score are divided as follows:
- Quality of presentation (biological cycle 2, pathogenesis 2, epidemiology 2, problems in breeding/humans 2, management of parasitosis according to the classic method 3 and possibility of sustainable alternatives 4): 1-15
- Use of correct and adequate terminology: 1-5
- Clear and fluent exposure capacity: 1-5
- Search for material and data autonomously (scientific publications, EFSA, ECDC reports, etc.) and their presentation clearly and using appropriate scientific terms: 1-5
Other information
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