Learning objectives
Students, starting from the knowledge of DNA structure and chemical composition, will learn the advanced techniques of modern molecular biology applied in biotechnology and research.
Prerequisites
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Course unit content
Structure of DNA, genetic code and protein synthesis.
Techniques of DNA analysis and manipulation.
Recombinant DNA and cloning strategies.
Hybridization techniques.
The Polymerase Chain Reaction.
DNA sequencing. Bioinformatics for DNA sequence analysis.
Full programme
The bacterial cell: approach to the technology of recombinant DNA.
DNA, the primary genetic material
The structure of DNA; genetic code and protein synthesis. Role of genes in cells. Notions of gene expression and regulation.
Techniques of DNA analysis and manipulation
Restriction enzymes, electrophoretic separation. Modification enzymes, in vitro reactions.
Recombinant DNA and cloning strategies
Cloning vectors; bacterial competence and transformation.
Hybridization techniques
Probes and hybridization: a cDNA library. Northern e Southern Blotting techniques.
The Polymerase Chain Reaction
PCR technology and applications. DNA sequencing. Bioinformatics for DNA sequence analysis: an approach to Nucleotide Sequence Databases.
Applications of recombinant DNA technology
Procariotic expression vectors: pUC and pET plasmids. Few concepts of recombinant expression and protein engineering.
Bibliography
Allison L.A. Fondamenti di Biologia Molecolare, Zanichelli Ed.
Teaching methods
Frontal lessons aided by presentations and animations files.
Assessment methods and criteria
Oral exam
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
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