Learning objectives
The aim of this course is to provide an in-depth knowledge on new genomic methodologies that have been developed and their possible applications in different field of scientific research. The aim is also to provide different tools to allow students to critically analyse “case studies” taken from the scientific literature.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge in biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics.
Course unit content
The course will provide in-depth knowledge on the methodologies and strategies to study the structure and functions of the genomes of complex organisms. This will be supported by examples and case studies of application to medicine, biology, agriculture, environmental problems.
Full programme
The past, present and future of Genomics.
Genome sequencing strategies and "Next Generation Sequencing" (NGS) approaches.
Study of the most relevant genome projects.
Transcriptome analysis: "single gene" and "high-throughput" methodologies.
Quantification of expression levels using "single gene" methodologies: ex. Northern blot, semi-quantitative PCR, Real Time PCR.
DNA microarray and comparison with NGS-based approaches (RNA-seq).
Analysis of miRNA expression profiles.
Exome sequencing.
"Genome-wide association study" (GWAS) and other genomic approaches for biomedical and environmental applications.
Introduction to metagenomics and epigenomics.
Genome editing.
"Case studies" taken from literature: interpretation of results using functional analysis.
Bibliography
“Genetica & genomica nelle scienze mediche”. Strachan T et al. Zanichelli.
“Fondamenti di bioinformatica”. Citterich M.H. et al. Zanichelli.
“Genomi (IV edizione)”. Brown T.A. EdiSES.
Additional material provided by the lecturer: slides and scientific articles for further information.
Teaching methods
The course is mainly based on frontal lectures and seminars on specific topics, but also includes exercises on data analysis and the discussion of scientific articles based on the topics of the course.
Assessment methods and criteria
Evaluation of the expected learning achievements will be based on an oral examination that will include the preparation of a slide presentation on a topic agreed upon with the lecturer. This will also allow an evaluation of the knowledge acquired by the student during the course as well as an evaluation of the ability to apply such knowledge to address and solve specific experimental problems.
Knowledge, application of knowledge and learning ability are verified during the presentation and in the replies to questions.
Communication ability is verified through the presentation and replies to questions.
Other information
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