OVERVIEW

The main aim of the course is to provide an overview of the cell as a functional autonomous unit as well as a component of more complex structures.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims at providing students with basic knowledge of the molecular mechanisms supporting the principal cell functions (from morphology and internal organization up to gene expression regulation, generation of differentiated cell lineages and genetic traits transmission). 

Teaching methods

The course includes classroom teaching on topics of Cell and Molecular Biology and Genetics.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The course is divided in six main areas:

1. Macromolecules – Topics to be developed: Basic structure and properties of nucleic acids, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates shall be presented with focus on chemical bonds and molecular structure and interactions to provide notions to understand the basic cell biology.

2. Citology – Topics to be developed: Cell morphology and structure of procariotes and eucariotes. Biological membranes (models, chemical composition and functions), cell organelles (Golgi, endoplasmic reticulum, lisosomes, peroxisomes, mitochondria, nucleus), cytoskeleton (composition and functions of the different systems). 

3. Cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions - Topics to be developed:  Cell junctions (different systems, meaning and functions), extracellular matrix (different forms, meaning and functions), cell communications (different systems, meaning and signaling mechanisms).

4. Gene expression - Topics to be developed:  Nucleic acids structure and functions, DNA duplication, transcription, translation, gene expression regulation.

5. Cell proliferation - Topics to be developed:  Cell cycle and control mechanisms, mitosis, meiosis, gametogenesis, mechanisms and meaning of cell death (apoptosis and necrosis), mechanisms of cell differentiation and cell transformation.

6. Basic genetics - Topics to be developed:  Mendel’s Laws of Heredity, probability of inheritance, alleles and genes, dominant and recessive alleles, homozygous and heterozygous definitions. Sex Chromosomes and Sex-Linked Inheritance. Karyotype aneuploidy.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

-Alberts et al.; "L'essenziale di biologia molecolare della cellula"; Zanichelli Editori.

-Becker et al.; "Il mondo della cellula"; Pearsons Eds.

-Solomon et al.; "Biologia"; Edises

-Karp et al.; "Biologia cellulare e molecolare"; Edises

-Pollard et a.; "Biologia Cellulare"; Elsevier-Masson Eds.

Teaching methods

The course includes classroom teaching on topics of Cell and Molecular Biology and Genetics.

Exam description

Final test is based on 15 written questions (multiple choice) and an oral test. Passing of the written test (with at least a score of 9/15) allows the student to be admitted to the oral test.

Should COVID19 restrictions be continued, final tests shall be held orally in remote mode.

Assessment methods

During the examination teachers will verify the competence and the ability to make connections of the students.