Learning objectives
The objectives of this course are aimed at providing the basics of Mendelian and molecular genetics necessary for understanding the mechanisms of transmission of hereditary characteristics and variability of traits in plant and animal species of agricultural interest.
Specific topics will regard the applications of genomic analysis and of genetic improvement for sustainable agriculture and the applications of biotechnology for the improvement of the quality of industrial products and the nutritional value of food.
Prerequisites
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Course unit content
Agricultural genetics, breeding, and biotechnology for sustainable agriculture in a changing world.
Elements of Classical Genetics, Quantitative Genetics and Population Genetics.
Genetic recombination in plants, genetic maps, physical maps and integrated maps.
Reproductive systems of cultivated plants.
Genetic variability: how to find and exploit new alleles / genes.
Genetic structure of populations. Heritability. Selection methods: selection theory, response to selection, selection methods and criteria. Heterosis and constitution of hybrid varieties. Mutagenesis and polyploidy.
Genomics: an overview. Molecular markers and their use: mapping, genotyping, identification of QTL (Quantitative Trait Loci) and marker assisted selection (MAS). Positional cloning and gene tagging. TILLING and ECOTILLING.
Genetic and molecular technologies supporting breeding. Genetic transformation and production of genetically modified organisms: tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress, improving the quality of agricultural production and the nutritional value of food. Molecular farming. Biofuels production.
Full programme
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Bibliography
Barcaccia, Falcinelli - Genetica e genomica: Miglioramneto Genetico, volume II - Liguori Editore .
Barcaccia G., Falcinelli M. Genetica e genomica:, Vol. III – Genomica e Biotecnologie genetiche, vol. III - . Liguori Editore.
Kang M.S., Quantitative Genetics, Genomics and Plant Breeding. CABI Publ.,
Chrispeels M.J., D.E. Sadawa Genetica, Biotecnologie e Agricoltura sostenibile. Casa Editrice Idelson- Gnocchi srl.
Russell, Wolfe, Hertz, Starr, McMillan - Genetica Agraria – Edises
Other indications will be provided by the lecturer
Teaching methods
Frontal lectures in the classroom 42 hours.
Assessment methods and criteria
The exam is performed as an oral examination
Other information
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