Cell biology and technology

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Curriculum(s) for 2026 - Cell biology and technology (33595)

Single curriculum

Lesson [SSD] [Language]	Year	Semester	CFU
10628558 \| [BIOS-15/A] [ITA]	1st	1st	6
Educational objectives General Objectives The primary objective of the course is to enable students to acquire advanced knowledge of microbial genetics, including the molecular aspects that underlie the development of many current molecular biology and recombinant DNA techniques. The course's educational objectives include: Understanding some of the historical experiments in microbial genetics. Studying the most recent advances in the fields of bacterial, phage, and eukaryotic microbial genetics, such as the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Covering the molecular processes underlying the evolution of microbial genomes. Analyzing the control mechanisms of genetic elements, including chromosomes, plasmids, and transposons, as well as the molecular mechanisms of microbial differentiation. Specific Objectives Knowledge and Understanding The specific objectives of the course include: Historical & Modern Genetics: Understanding some of the historical experiments in microbial genetics, and the advances in the fields of bacterial, phage, and eukaryotic microbial genetics. Genomic Evolution & Regulation: Knowing and understanding the role of mutations in the evolution of microbial genomes, the regulatory mechanisms of mobile elements (such as plasmids and transposons), and the control of transposition. Microbial Differentiation: Knowing and understanding the molecular processes underlying microbial differentiation. Ability to Apply Knowledge and Understanding The course provides the tools that allow students to: Evaluate Molecular Mechanisms: Analyze the molecular mechanisms underlying genetic variability, as well as microbial responses to host defence mechanisms and the environment. Apply Investigation Methods: Apply various molecular investigation methods, including classical and reverse genetics. Making Judgments Through literature review and the analysis of experimental data from public databases, students acquire the ability to independently interpret experimental data and critically place them within the framework of their existing knowledge. Communication Skills Students acquire the use of appropriate scientific terminology for communicating complex genetic concepts with both lay and expert audiences. Learning Skills Learning skills are fostered by continuous reference to acquired knowledge and the methodologies used to advance it. Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the course, students will be able to evaluate the genetic mechanisms underlying a wide variety of microbiological problems and identify the most appropriate investigation methods.
10629473 \| [BIOS-02/A] [ITA]	1st	1st	6
Educational objectives Obiettivi formativi Con questo insegnamento, gli studenti acquisiranno conoscenze teoriche e metodologiche sugli approcci di studio e sulle metodologie cellulari e molecolari alla base delle biotecnologie vegetali, e sulla complessità, a livello molecolare e cellulare, delle vie metaboliche primarie e secondarie di interesse biotecnologico. Obiettivi specifici Parte I A) Conoscenze e capacità di comprensione Acquisire conoscenze dettagliate sui metodi di trasformazione transiente e stabile del genoma nucleare e plastidico delle piante; sugli approcci di genetica diretta ed inversa per studiare la funzione dei geni vegetali; sull’identificazione ed utilizzo dei marcatori molecolari in genetica vegetale; sull’utilizzo delle biotecnologie vegetali per l’ottenimento di varietà coltivate con tratti agronomici migliorati. In particolare, gli studenti che abbiano superato l’esame saranno in grado di conoscere e comprendere: - i principali sistemi di espressione transgenica stabile e transiente nelle piante, inclusi i sistemi di trasformazione dei plastidi; - i metodi di analisi della funzione genica nelle piante tramite genetica diretta e inversa. - i meccanismi di silenziamento e di “genome editing” negli organismi vegetali. - l’utilizzo della variabilità genetica naturale come fonte di tratti di interesse biotecnologico ed agronomico. B) Capacità di applicare conoscenza e comprensione - progettare esperimenti volti a definire la funzione di un gene tramite approcci di genetica inversa; - progettare screening genetici in sistemi modello vegetali e delineare le linee principali di identificazione di una mutazione; - comprendere e discutere in modo critico i diversi approcci utilizzati per alterare l’espressione di un gene in una pianta e scegliere quello più opportuno in base alle esigenze ed al modello sperimentale; - progettare l’ingegnerizzazione di nuovi tratti in organismi vegetali. C) Autonomia di giudizio - Capacità di giudizio critico, attraverso lo studio di rassegne e articoli scientifici su aspetti chiave del campo e approfondite discussioni ; - Capacità di valutazione della correttezza e del rigore scientifico negli argomenti relativi alle tematiche oggetto dell’insegnamento. D) Abilità comunicative - Acquisizione di adeguate competenze e strumenti utili per la comunicazione in lingua italiana e in lingua straniera (inglese), mediante l'utilizzazione di linguaggi grafici e formali, con particolare riguardo al linguaggio scientifico. E) Capacità di apprendimento - Capacità di interpretazione ed approfondimento - Capacità di fruizione di strumenti conoscitivi per l'aggiornamento continuo delle conoscenze - Capacità di confronto per il consolidamento e il miglioramento delle proprie conocenze. Obiettivi formativi specifici Parte II A) Conoscenze e capacità di comprensione Acquisire conoscenze dettagliate sul metabolismo primario e secondario delle piante, con particolare riferimento alla biosintesi e compartimentalizzazione dei metaboliti; sul traffico vescicolare e la secrezione; sulle basi concettuali e metodologiche dell’analisi del proteoma e del metaboloma vegetale. Gli studenti che abbiano superato l’esame saranno in grado di conoscere e comprendere (conoscenze acquisite): - le principali vie biosintetiche nel metabolismo primario e secondario delle piante; - i meccanismi di regolazione, channeling e compartimentalizzazione del metabolismo vegetale; - le diverse tecnologie oggi a disposizione per l’analisi su larga scala dei proteomi e metabolomi vegetali. B) Capacità di applicare conoscenza e comprensione - comprendere e valutare criticamente le metodologie da utilizzare in un esperimento di proteomica o di metabolomica; - comprendere una via metabolica vegetale e progettare la sua modifica in sistemi vegetali od in sistemi eterologhi - affrontare la letteratura scientifica nel campo specifico, comprendendone le basi metodologiche e concettuali. C) Autonomia di giudizio - Capacità di giudizio critico, attraverso lo studio di rassegne e articoli scientifici su aspetti chiave del campo e approfondite discussioni ; - Capacità di valutazione della correttezza e del rigore scientifico negli argomenti relativi alle tematiche oggetto dell’insegnamento. D) Abilità comunicative - Acquisizione di adeguate competenze e strumenti utili per la comunicazione in lingua italiana e in lingua straniera (inglese), mediante l'utilizzazione di linguaggi grafici e formali, con particolare riguardo al linguaggio scientifico. E) Capacità di apprendimento - Capacità di interpretazione ed approfondimento - Capacità di fruizione di strumenti conoscitivi per l'aggiornamento continuo delle conoscenze - Capacità di confronto per il consolidamento e il miglioramento delle proprie conocenze.
10628904 \| [BIOS-15/A] [ITA]	1st	2nd	6
Educational objectives The Cellular Microbiology and Vaccinology course aims to provide students with the knowledge and conceptual tools required to understand the complexity of interactions between microorganisms and eukaryotic organisms, with particular emphasis on the molecular mechanisms underlying host–pathogen relationships. The course introduces the fundamental principles of cellular microbiology, analysing the strategies employed by microorganisms to colonize the host, overcome defensive barriers, establish infection, and modulate host immune responses. The teaching programme is structured in a sequential and cumulative manner, integrating knowledge of microbial recognition by the innate and adaptive immune systems, the role of the microbiota in host physiology and pathology, and the molecular mechanisms determining the transition from commensalism to pathogenicity. Particular attention is devoted to the different stages of infection, including microbial adhesion and colonization, tissue invasion, intracellular survival, evasion of host defences, and production of virulence factors responsible for cellular and tissue damage. Through the study of selected human pathogens of medical relevance, students will explore the molecular strategies used by microorganisms to interact with host cells, alter cellular functions, and promote infection progression. The course will address gene regulatory mechanisms, host–microbe communication, secretion systems, virulence factors, adaptation to host environments, and microbial responses to the stresses imposed by the immune system. The knowledge acquired will enable students to understand how the genetic and phenotypic characteristics of microorganisms determine different pathogenic strategies and how the balance between the host and microbial communities influences health and disease. The final part of the course will introduce the principles underlying infection prevention strategies, with particular focus on vaccines, including different vaccine platforms, the rationale behind the identification of novel vaccine targets, and the scientific and experimental pathway leading from laboratory development to clinical application.
[N/D] [ITA]	1st	2nd	6
Optional group:
Optional group:
Optional group:
Optional group:
[N/D] [ITA]	2nd	1st	6
AAF1041 \| STAGE [N/D, N/D] [ITA]	2nd	1st	3
Educational objectives The internship activities (art.10, paragraph 5, letter d - Ministerial Decree 270/04), equal to 3 credits, are dedicated to the acquisition of useful knowledge for entering the world of work. Consistent with the objectives of the degree course, these activities are aimed at applying the knowledge acquired in the fields of microbial, plant and animal cell technologies. The internship activities include the attendance of specific working realities such as e.g. public and private research laboratories, laboratories and industries operating in the medical/health field, biotechnological industries, etc. Seminars on the development and application of innovative methodologies can also contribute to training useful for entering the world of work.
AAF1037 \| FINAL EXAM [N/D] [ITA]	2nd	2nd	39
Educational objectives General objectives The bibliographic study, the experimental work and the elaboration of the results for the writing of the degree thesis represent one of the most important moments of the study course of the master's degree acquisition of advanced theoretical-practical knowledge and of the correct scientific methods of investigation. Specific objectives Knowledge and understanding: Knowledge and advanced scientific methodologies in specific areas of animal, plant and microbial cell biology and its applications, scientific methods of investigation, methods of collection, analysis and processing of experimental data will be acquired during the process and preparation of the final elaborate of the thesis. The thesis preparation will be carried out in university laboratories both in Italy and abroad as well as in accredited research centers and national institutes. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding The knowledge acquired during the preparation and discussion of the thesis allow the graduate to: Apply knowledge for experimental design Apply the acquired knowledge to propose advanced technologies to solve specific sector problems. Autonomy of judgment The development of the thesis will develop the skills of the graduates: The autonomy of judgment in the critical evaluation of experimental data Autonomy in the documentation and evaluation of the most appropriate experimental approaches for the solution of specific problems. Communication skills The preparation and discussion of the elaborate file will allow the graduate master to acquire: -Communication skills of the research carried out and of its own global preparation. -Ability to communicate the scientific results obtained with the thesis activity in national and international conferences Learning ability During the preparation and discussion of the thesis the graduate acquires the ability to learn the most advanced knowledge and methodologies and their continuous updating.
Optional group:
Optional group:

Lesson [SSD] [Language]	Year	Semester	CFU
10626562 \| Biogenesis of cellular compartments and signaling between cells [BIOS-04/A] [ITA]	1st	2nd	6
Educational objectives General skills This course is designed to deepen the knowledge on Cell biology assumed during the Bachelor. The main goal is for learners to deepen the knowledge on eukaryotic animal cell structure and the mechanisms underlying fundamental cell biological processes (in physiology and disease), updated with yearly published new researches. The course includes classroom lectures, and involve the discussion on the experimental approaches used in recent highest quality researches. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding -knowing and understanding the molecular mechanisms that rule cellular processes in eukaryotic cells; -knowing and understanding cellular activities that allow the maintenance of functional integrity of membranes and organelles in the eukaryotic animal cells; -knowing and understanding cell signaling, different class of receptor involved, and their effects on enzymatic activities, structures and cell processes (e.g. cytoskeleton organization, endocytosis, etc.) B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use the specific terminology - be able to analyze and interpret scientific papers concerning cell biology topics and identify the appropriate experimental procedures to clarify a specific cell biology process. C) Making judgements - critical thinking through the study of the experimental procedures used for the identification of key molecules in some cell processes - learning by questioning D) Communication skills -be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered - be able to identify the most relevant topics
10629524 \| CELL PASTICITY AND DYNAMICS OF PLANT DIFFERENTIATION [BIOS-01/A] [ITA]	1st	1st	6
Educational objectives General Skills The course aims to study the structural and functional organization of the plant cell and the models of plant development, using experimental systems and advanced methodologies. It also aims to provide the knowledge and technological tools to increase the professionalism of the biologist in sectors that use plant cell systems. The course requires knowledge of plant Botany and Physiology acquired in the three-year degree in Biology. The course includes lectures. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding - Knowledge and understanding of the structural and functional organization of the different cellular compartments, peculiar of the plant cell. - Knowledge and understanding of molecular mechanisms in plant plasticity and development. - Knowledge and understanding of experimental systems used as model systems to study the biology of plant development B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use the specific terminology of the subject - be able to identify the right procedures to solve the questions of cell biology and plant development C) Making judgements - to acquire critical judgment skills in the reading of experimental procedures and results reported in the literature on specific research issues - to learn to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge learned D) Communication skills - be able to communicate during the oral exam what has been learned during the lectures and the laboratory experiences E) Learning skills - learning specific terminology of the matter - be able to logically connect the acquired knowledge - be able to identify the most relevant topics of the matter.

Lesson [SSD] [Language]	Year	Semester	CFU
10628925 \| [BIOS-15/A] [ITA]	1st	2nd	6
Educational objectives General objectives - The main objective of the course is to provide students with the tools to understand the main approaches of gene and cell therapy through a thorough study of microbial vectors in use both in basic research and in clinical trials. Particular attention is devoted to the development process of first-second- and third-generation vectors and to the methodological aspects to produce a therapeutic vector. Finally, the ethical issues that derive from the use of genetic material for therapeutic purposes will be considered. Specific objectives - Knowledge and ability to understand. The specific objectives of the course include: • Understand the process that from the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the functionality of specific genetic elements (viruses, chromosomes, plasmids, transposons) leads to the development of vectors for the transfer of genes / sequences in mammalian cells. • Know and understand the methods and models used to test the safety of the vectors and the related production processes. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding. The course provides the tools that allow the student to select specific microbial elements, such as plasmids, transposons and viruses, for the transfer of genetic material in vitro and in vivo, even considering the specific experimental / therapeutic needs; select the most appropriate techniques for gene transfer; to evaluate host responses to gene transfer; apply the different methods of molecular and cellular investigation of the different production phases of gene transfer systems. Making judgments: The student acquires an autonomous ability to interpret experimental data and to place them in the framework of knowledge already acquired. It will also be able to evaluate ethical issues. Communication skills: the student acquires the use of appropriate scientific terminology to communicate the concepts underlying gene therapy, the use of means of investigation, production and the real issues of ethical nature, both to a lay public and experts . Learning skills: the ability to learn is stimulated by the continuous reference, in all the activities of the course, to the knowledge acquired and to the methodologies used for their progress. At the end of the course the students will have learned the genetic mechanisms underlying the most commonly treated pathologies with genetic materials, the construction, production ant the use of genetic medications
10626555 \| [BIOS-08/A] [ITA]	1st	2nd	6
Educational objectives General aims: The course aims to introduce the students to the main approaches to functional genomics. Students will learn to apply the high-throughput techniques based on DNA microarrays and next generation sequencing NGS, measuring their potentials and their problems and limits. Focus will be placed on data mining methodologies, from image analysis to data normalization and statistical filtering to gene clustering and gene ontology. The availability of functional database and their use for improving biomedical research will also be explained. Specific Skills 1. Knowledge and comprehension: the student will have to know the basic principles, the potentiality and the possible weak points of the most utilized methodologies in functional genomics 2. Ability to apply knowledge and comprehension: the student will have to apply this knowledge to the critical interpretation of scientific literature in the specific field. 3. Judgment ability: the student will have to show ability in evaluating the solidity and the impact of recent work from the scientific literature and to present his conclusion to teacher and colleagues. 4. The student will have to show ability to extend the application of the analytical tools learned in the course (specific softwares freely available in the web) to his future experimental work.
10627996 \| [BIOS-07/A] [ITA]	1st	2nd	6
Educational objectives General skills The course aims to provide students with the biochemical bases to understand the most advanced biotechnological applications of enzymes, proteins and complex multienzymatic systems. The biochemical principles of methods for the study of protein-protein interactions will also be illustrated. Furthermore, aspects of metal metabolism in procaryotes and eukaryotes will be illustrated. Specific skills A) knowledge and understanding - knowledge of the main biotechnological applications of enzymes,proteinsandcomplex multienzymatic systems; - knowledge of the main biochemical techniques for the study of protein-protein interactions - knowledge of the strategies required for protein and enzyme production and engineering B) ability to apply knowledge and understanding - exploiting the knowledge of biochemical techniques to investigate the applications of enzymes and proteins in the field of biotechnology - understanding and evaluating the impact of structural modifications of biological macromolecules on their biological function; C) Making judgements - critical thinking through the study of examples of biotechnological applications of proteins and enzymes taken from the scientific literature - learning by questioning D) Communication skills -ability to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered - ability to identify the most relevant topics
10630795 \| Stems cells biology and applications [BIOS-08/A, BIOS-14/A] [ITA]	2nd	1st	6
Educational objectives Knowledge on the basic molecular and cell properties of mammalian stem cells and of their use in biomedical applications and knowledge about the role of stem cells in embryonic and post-embryonic development in plants. Moreover, the class aims to give information about plant stem cell manipulation techniques for agricultural purposes. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding -knowing and understanding the nature of stem cells -knowing and understanding the use of stem cells in biomedicine -knowing and understanding the use of plant stem cells for agricultural purposes B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use the specific terminology - practicing problem solving in stem cell biology C) Making judgements - critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in stem cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments - learning by questioning D) Communication skills -be able to communicate what has been learned during the simulation of a project research discussion E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered - be able to identify the most relevant topics
Module I [BIOS-08/A] [ITA]	2nd	1st	3
Module II [BIOS-14/A] [ITA]	2nd	1st	3
10630505 \| Cellular imaging and dynamic cytometry: principles and applications [BIOS-14/A, BIOS-15/A] [ITA]	2nd	1st	6
Educational objectives Objectives General objectives–Module 1 e 2 The main objective of the course is to give students access to advanced knowledge about the most recent applications of Imaging (Module 1) and dynamic cytometry (Module 2) in the study of relevant cellular processes in physiological and pathological conditions. The educational objectives of the course are the understanding of the basic principles of light and fluorescence microscopy techniques and flow cytometry in their most recent evolutions. The theoretical and practical significance of these methodologies will be highlighted by examining their applications to the study of relevant biological phenomena, such as cell proliferation and death and specific lessons will be devoted to their base mechanisms. Practical training with the use of flow cytometers and fluorescence microscopes for the analysis of fixed cellular samples or live-cell imaging will be provided.
Mod.I [BIOS-14/A] [ITA]	2nd	1st	3
Mod.II [BIOS-15/A] [ITA]	2nd	1st	3
10629691 \| Molecular dynamics in plant-microbe interactions: the study of plant-microbe interactions to develop biotechnological approaches for crop improvement [BIOS-02/A] [ENG]	1st	2nd	6
Educational objectives General outcome The main objective of this course is to provide the student knowledge on the molecular, cellular and evolutionary aspects of plant immunity, and on similarities and differences with the immune mechanisms of animals. The student will also acquire knowledge on the molecular basis of communication (recognition, elicitation, responses) between plants and microorganisms, both pathogenic and beneficial, and the mechanisms of control of the immune response that are the basis of pathogenicity and symbiosis. Finally, during the course the student will understand how the knowledge acquired in the study of plant-microorganism interactions is the foundation for the development of biotechnological approaches. The course also aims to provide students with the ability to use bibliographic resources and to clearly present complex scientific contents related to the aspects covered by the program. Specific outcomes A. Knowledge and understanding - Specific language and terminology. - The mechanisms that form the innate immune system of plants - Similarities and differences between the plant and animal immune systems. - The elements, processes and mechanisms of molecular and cellular regulation relevant in the interactions between plants and microbes (pathogenic and beneficial). - The dynamics of coevolution between plants and microbes. - The main methods of study adopted in these subjects. - The socio-economic problems related to issues in this specific field and object of classical and innovative biotechnological strategies. B. Applying knowledge and understanding - Ability to use specific terminology - Ability to outline the appropriate conceptual and methodological paths to address problems and questions in the field of plant-microbe interactions. - Ability to use bibliographic resources, software and biological resources available through the Web to address and interpret specific problems related to the aspects object of this course. C. Making judgements - Critical judgment skills, through the study of reviews and scientific articles on key aspects and through in-depth collective discussions; - Ability to evaluate correctness and scientific rigor through analysis and collective discussion of the experimental and methodological part of recent high quality scientific articles. D. Communication skills - Acquisition of adequate skills and tools useful for communication, through the use of graphic and formal languages, with particular regard to scientific language, through discussions and seminars that are an integral part of the oral exam. E. Learning skills The student will possess: - the ability to set up an independent and flexible study method, which allows to conduct personal research and analysis and to continue effectively the advancement of knowledge. - the ability to identify problematic, unresolved and innovative aspects in biological issues - the ability to find and use cognitive tools for the continuous updating of knowledge - the ability to compare oneself for the progress, consolidation and improvement of one's own knowledge. Results Possession of the fundamental contents of the specific discipline, and the ability to master the procedures and methods of their own investigation, also to orientate and operate in the field of applied sciences.

Lesson [SSD] [Language]	Year	Semester	CFU
10630766 \| MOLECULAR AND APPLIED IMMUNOLOGY [MEDS-02/A] [ITA]	2nd	1st	6
Educational objectives General aims. Advanced knowledge of the cellular and molecular interactions regulating the development of immune responses. Knowledge of the immune responses against pathogens. Knowledge of the immune response to cancer and its passive and active immunotherapy. An integrated vision of the role of innate and adaptive immune responses in physiological and pathological conditions will be provided. Students will improve their competence in understanding the host immune responses during microbial infections and cancer and the therapeutic application of immune modulating strategies. Specific aims. A) Knowledge and understanding skills: Knowledge of the molecular mechanisms and cellular interactions characterizing the immune response against pathogens and tumors. Knowledge of the different approaches in immunotherapy. Knowledge of the scientific investigation methods and of the specific scientific terminology. B) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding: The student will be able to understand the literature in the field of immunology and immunotherapy and in other integrated scientific fields. He will be able to use the specific terminology and to understand the rationale and the development of immuno-therapy. C) Autonomy of judgment: Autonomy of judgment is stimulated through the evaluation, critical analysis and interpretation of data and experiments from the literature. D) Communication skills: Acquisition of competences and communication tools with adequate technical language. E) Learning skills: This will be stimulated through class discussion, providing teaching materials (reference books and relevant reviews).
[MEDS-02/A] [ITA]	2nd	1st	3
[MEDS-02/A] [ITA]	2nd	1st	3
10626374 \| Molecular plant pathology: the main strategies of Integrated Pest Management [AGRI-05/B] [ENG]	2nd	1st	6
Educational objectives General skills Knowledge of the molecular bases of the cross talk between plant and pathogens. Knowledge of the molecular and physiological basis for the regulation of the biosynthesis of phytotoxins and mycotoxins in the pathogen and their effect in the host. Studying the genome of phytopathogens by bioinformatic tools. Study of the main strategies of Integrated Pest Management. Provide advanced knowledge of food analysis in terms of definition of the nutritional value and food safety. To analyze the Italian and Community current regulations regarding Food safety and quality. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding The concept of plant disease The different types of phytopathogens: viruses, bacteria and fungi The diagnosis of plant pathogens The molecular and biochemical basis of defensive innate strategies of plants the biochemical molecular basis of virulence strategies of pathogens integrated disease control strategies in the main crops the concept of food safety linked to the contamination of the main Crops B) Applying knowledge and understanding how using specific terminology Identify the main factors causing disease in the main crops Identify important activities and genes in plant resistance Identify the important activities and genes in the virulence of pathogens Outline integrated strategies for controlling plant diseases and generally improving food safety C) Making judgements critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments learning by questioning D) Communication skills Identification of new perspectives/development strategies to guarantee the main crops from a yield, safety and quality point of view Evaluation, interpretation and re-elaboration of literature data in the field of molecular plant pathology E) Learning skills Learn the specific terminology of plant pathologists Logically connect the acquired knowledge in the field of plant-pathogen interaction Identify the most relevant topics of the subjects dealt with how consulting specialist databases (eg pubmed, kegg)
10628779 \| THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD AND ITS APPLICATIONS IN BIOLOGY [BIOS-14/A] [ENG]	2nd	1st	6
Educational objectives General skills The course focuses on the scientific method and its applications in biology. Epistemological foundations of science, conceptual and experimental approaches in biology. The aim is to prepare the students to scientific research, providing them with the conceptual tools to comprehend practical research experiences in the laboratory or field. The course focuses on scientific reasoning and its countless shapes and applications, rather than the transmission of notions. The students will be introduced to select scientific papers and requested to comment and discuss them, with the goal of fostering their scientific reasoning capabilities. Classroom discussions are key teaching instruments in this course. Audiovisual records of the classes will be provided. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding - Rudiments of epistemology - logical bases of scientific observation and experimentation - Designing research projects - Some knowledge of the practice of scientific research B) Applying knowledge and understanding - Using proper specific language - Application of theoretical bases to scientific research C) Making judgements - Critical evaluation of scientific experiments, observations, and results D) Communication skills - Oral communication of the acquired knowledge during the oral examination E) Learning skills - Ability to logically design and comprehend scientific experiments, observations, and results - Improvement of the ability to profit from practical experiences in scientific research
10626232 \| Metabolic engineering and plant improvement [BIOS-02/A] [ITA]	1st	2nd	6
Educational objectives General skills The course aims to study the applications of plant metabolic engineering and the use of advanced methodologies for the study and production of bioactive molecules of agronomic, pharmacological, or food interest. Additionally, students will develop skills in the application of plant metabolic engineering to genetically improve plants in response to biotic and abiotic stresses, as well as to produce biofuels, plant fortification, molecular farming, and phytoremediation. These competencies will be acquired through lectures and seminar activities conducted by industry experts. Furthermore, skills will be implemented through visits to companies and institutions operating in the agronomic sector. Learning outcomes A) Knowledge and understanding skills Acquire detailed knowledge on the study of the molecular mechanisms underlying the biosynthesis and regulation of the production of plant macromolecules of industrial and pharmacological interest. Acquire knowledge on advanced techniques for the analysis of plant metabolites and macromolecules. Acquire knowledge of the main molecular biology and cell biology approaches aimed at plant engineering to obtain cultivated varieties with improved agronomic traits. Understand the effect of plant molecules in the treatment of plant diseases. Students who have passed the exam will be able to know and understand: - Main advanced systems for the study of plant metabolism - Applications of metabolic genetic engineering to obtain plant products of industrial interest. - Biotechnological methods for obtaining plants with improved nutritional value, resistance to stress and plants improved to produce bioenergy. B) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding - understand and carry out experimental protocols aimed at the production of plant metabolites of commercial interest - design the engineering of metabolic pathways for plant genetic improvement. C) Autonomy of judgment- - ability to autonomously understand and solve scientific problems concerning plant metabolism for plant improvement and for applications in the industrial field. - Ability to autonomously evaluate and interpret experimental data for the study of plant metabolism and its modifications with biotechnological approaches for plant improvement D) Communication skills - Acquisition of adequate skills and useful tools for the communication and dissemination of the knowledge acquired and the results of the scientific activity carried out during the course of study. - Ability to communicate with industrial managers, production technicians and with heads of public and private research bodies in the sector. E) Learning ability - Autonomous ability to deepen further scientific information and technical knowledge of the sector for the continuous updating of knowledge. - Ability to learn cognitive tools and scientific method typical of the activity of a cell biologist in the sector of scientific research in genetic improvement and applied to the production of plant metabolites of commercial interest
10629474 \| Molecular mechanisms of mitosis [BIOS-14/A] [ITA]	1st	2nd	6
Educational objectives General skills The course is aimed at providing students with an integrated view of the different molecular and cellular components involved in mitosis, highlighting their evolutionary conservation and their role in tumorigenesis and diverse human pathologies; making students familiar with the model systems and the experimental approaches employed to study cell division; providing students with basic notions about the mechanisms of stem cell asymmetric divisions. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding - Knowing the main structural and regulatory components of cell division and understanding the molecural interactions controlling its progression. - Knowing the main model systems and experimental approaches to be employed for elucidating specific aspects of mitosis. - Knowing the pathological consequences of alterations in the mitotic process B) Applying knowledge and understanding - To acquire and correctly use the terminology required to describe the main mitotic players and their interactions. - Ability to design suitable experimental approaches for studying specific aspects of cell division. C) Making judgements - To be able to critically evaluate criticamente experimental hypotheses, anche attraverso lo studio e l’approfondimento di esperimenti che hanno portato al chiarimento di particolari aspetti della mitosi. - To be able to correctly interpret the experimental data and to evaluate their statistical significance. D) Communication skills - Ability to perform clear and well-structured oral presentations concerning the course topics, eventually exploiting multimedial supports. E) Learning skills - Acquiring a comprehensive view of the mitotic process and of the high level of evolutionary conservation of its components and regulatory networks. - Learning the suitable terminology to describe components and sub-processes involved in cell division.
10626562 \| Biogenesis of cellular compartments and signaling between cells [BIOS-04/A] [ITA]	1st	2nd	6
Educational objectives General skills This course is designed to deepen the knowledge on Cell biology assumed during the Bachelor. The main goal is for learners to deepen the knowledge on eukaryotic animal cell structure and the mechanisms underlying fundamental cell biological processes (in physiology and disease), updated with yearly published new researches. The course includes classroom lectures, and involve the discussion on the experimental approaches used in recent highest quality researches. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding -knowing and understanding the molecular mechanisms that rule cellular processes in eukaryotic cells; -knowing and understanding cellular activities that allow the maintenance of functional integrity of membranes and organelles in the eukaryotic animal cells; -knowing and understanding cell signaling, different class of receptor involved, and their effects on enzymatic activities, structures and cell processes (e.g. cytoskeleton organization, endocytosis, etc.) B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use the specific terminology - be able to analyze and interpret scientific papers concerning cell biology topics and identify the appropriate experimental procedures to clarify a specific cell biology process. C) Making judgements - critical thinking through the study of the experimental procedures used for the identification of key molecules in some cell processes - learning by questioning D) Communication skills -be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered - be able to identify the most relevant topics
10629524 \| CELL PASTICITY AND DYNAMICS OF PLANT DIFFERENTIATION [BIOS-01/A] [ITA]	1st	1st	6
Educational objectives General Skills The course aims to study the structural and functional organization of the plant cell and the models of plant development, using experimental systems and advanced methodologies. It also aims to provide the knowledge and technological tools to increase the professionalism of the biologist in sectors that use plant cell systems. The course requires knowledge of plant Botany and Physiology acquired in the three-year degree in Biology. The course includes lectures. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding - Knowledge and understanding of the structural and functional organization of the different cellular compartments, peculiar of the plant cell. - Knowledge and understanding of molecular mechanisms in plant plasticity and development. - Knowledge and understanding of experimental systems used as model systems to study the biology of plant development B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use the specific terminology of the subject - be able to identify the right procedures to solve the questions of cell biology and plant development C) Making judgements - to acquire critical judgment skills in the reading of experimental procedures and results reported in the literature on specific research issues - to learn to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge learned D) Communication skills - be able to communicate during the oral exam what has been learned during the lectures and the laboratory experiences E) Learning skills - learning specific terminology of the matter - be able to logically connect the acquired knowledge - be able to identify the most relevant topics of the matter.

Lesson [SSD] [Language]	Year	Semester	CFU
10626144 \| [CHEM-07/C] [ITA]	1st	2nd	6
Educational objectives General skills This course aims to illustrate the characteristics of different model organisms and their use in industrial platforms, also analyzing the various improvement strategies. The course aims to identify and evaluate the appropriate choice of the model organism based on the type of biotechnological application addressed, depending on the different industrial sectors (eg food, pharmaceutical and chemical). The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions, dedicated to learning the ability to cultivate and manipulate some of the model systems treated. Specific objectives A) Knowledge and understanding - Knowledge of the main organisms used in industrial platforms - Knowledge and understanding of the main production processes based on the different cellular systems - Knowledge and understanding of improvement strategies for obtaining products on an industrial level B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use specific terminology - to identify the right procedures to solve the basic questions of the use of different model systems -practicing the strategies for the improvement of the model organisms studied -be able to cultivate and handle the different model systems treated during the course C) Making judgements - acquire critical judgment skills, through the study of model systems and their use in various industrial platforms - learning by questioning D) Communication skills -be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered - be able to identify the most relevant topics
10628108 \| Food: quality, processing and safety [AGRI-07/A] [ITA]	1st	2nd	6
Educational objectives The course will address the role played by the main nutrients, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and minerals, as well as the interaction between food and drugs in human nutrition. It will also examine the effects that major food processing methods have on food products. Various food safety factors will be discussed, particularly bacterial growth and the role of water activity, pH, temperature, and so on. These concepts will be applied to explain how food is processed and preserved throughout the entire food supply chain. The main types of food and the transformations they undergo to become final products will be described, and the main analytical techniques for determining the nutrient content in foods and processed products will be illustrated. Topics will also include shelf-life, nutritional value loss, and an overview of food legislation especially HACCP, legal definitions of food, how to assess quality, and how to read food labels. Additionally, regulatory aspects related to certifications such as geographical indications and designations of origin for foods will be briefly discussed. Specific Objectives A) Knowledge and Understanding • Understanding of the chemical composition of food. • Knowledge and comprehension of food legislation. • Knowledge of the main food processing methods. B) Ability to Apply Knowledge and Understanding • Ability to use specific terminology. • Ability to identify appropriate procedures to address contamination-related issues. • Ability to recognize the nutritional value of proteins, fats, sugars, and minerals. • Ability to identify the type of processing applied to a food product. C) Independent Judgment • Development of critical thinking skills regarding various aspects of human nutrition. • Learning to formulate questions for deeper understanding and further exploration of the knowledge that has been acquired. D) Communication Skills • Ability to effectively communicate, during the oral examination, the knowledge acquired. E) Learning Skills • Acquisition of subject-specific terminology. • Ability to logically connect acquired knowledge. • Identification of key topics within the subjects covered.