Learning objectives
The student is asked to understand and learn the basics of that genetic information transmission. At the end of the course the student must acquire skills to describe, communicate the main techniques used for nucleic acid manipulation. The student will learn how to apply these techniques to answer a diagnostic question.
Prerequisites
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Course unit content
The course provides basic knowledge on the molecular aspects of the transmission of genetic information. The course initially introduces the basics of the concept of inheritance, and then introduces nucleic acids as molecules able to ensure the transmission of the genetic information through DNA replication, RNA transcription and proteins translation. Finally the course will provide the basis for the knowledge of the main techniques used for DNA/RNA manipulation, and their application in various fields of research, diagnosis, forensic medicine and treatment of human diseases.
Full programme
Molecular basis of genetic information. Composition and structure of nucleic acids. Chromatine, chromosomes and genes. DNA replication, DNA recombination, DNA damage and mutation, DNA repair. Types of RNA involved in protein synthesis: structures and functions. RNA transcription: enzymatic machinery and processes. Post transcriptional maturation of the eukaryotic mRNA. Genetic code and its properties. Protein synthesis: enzymatic machinery and processes. Molecular biology techniques: DNA isolation, DNA gel electrophoresis, restriction enzymes and restriction patterns, Southern Blot. DNA sequencing, cloning, amplification. PCR reaction. Application of molecular biology techniques in clinical diagnosis and forensic medicine.
Bibliography
"Fondamenti di biologia molecolare"
di Lizabeth A. Allison
Editore: Zanichelli
Teaching methods
The course will be held with oral lectures and will make use of multimedia systems. During the lessons, students will have the opportunity to discuss the key aspects of the course. The teachers will be available throughout the duration of the course to answer questions and support students during their training with individual meetings by appointment.
Assessment methods and criteria
Written examination: multiple choice questions on the topics illustrated during the course. The number of questions is 30, for each one 5 possible answers are proposed. Only one answer is correct. The student is given 45 minutes to finish the test.
During the marking process, for each correct answer one point is given, while for each missing or wrong answer zero points are given. The total score is then mediated with that of the other C.I. modules in order to determine the overall exam grade.
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
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