Learning objectives
To provide knowledge on plant metabolism and physiology, and to present case studies and examples of the application of knowledge to plant biotechnologies.
Prerequisites
Plant biology, genetics
Course unit content
Model organisms for biotechnologies - Arabidopsis thaliana L Heynn
In vitro culture and aseptic conditions
Micropropagation
Synthetic growth media for plants and plant hormones
Epigenetics
Somaclonal variation
Calluses culture
Somatic embryogenesis
DNA extraction from plant tissues, methods and examples
Quantification of DNA and RNA, methods and examples
Primers
PCR
Restriction enzymes
Gene cloning
Gene libraries
Basic concepts of human immune system
ELISA assays, applications
Preparation and culture of protoplasts
Haploid plants: androgenesis, ginogenesis
Ploidy: variation and phenotypic consequences, chimeric organisms
Triticaceae: T. aestivum and T. durum, evolution
Proteins of T. durum
Fruits without seeds, commercial fruits
Secondary metabolism in plants
Shikimic acid pathway
Basic concepts of human nerve system
Plant alcaloids: characterisation, utilisation
Morphine: biosynthetic pathway, actions on humans
Terpenes and carotenoids, examples
Isoprenoids, examples
Phenolic compounds, examples
Phytoalexins
Full programme
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Bibliography
material to be concerted with the lecturer
Teaching methods
The course involves frontal lectures with illustration of material taken from the international scientific literature.
Assessment methods and criteria
The oral examination requires two questions on topics from the course. One question is to verify the knowledge, and the second one verifies the ability in applying knowledge to practical cases. The exam also verifies the communicative ability of the student in presenting the topics with the appropriate language, and the learning ability.
Other information
The lecturer warmly advises to attend the frontal classes and practicals
2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
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