Genetics and Molecular Biology

General aims This course aims to lead students to a deeper knowledge on folds and folding of proteins and protein complexes, to enable them to present/disseminate/discuss specific protein structure-function relationships, and to introduce them to current knowledge on "molecular machines”. Specific aims • Preliminary knowledge Basic notions of protein structure (indispensable), molecular biology (indispensable), genetics (important) and cellular biology (important) • Knowledge of the student at the end of the course: Students will acquire knowledge of the complex dynamic events that bring the newly formed polypeptides to assume 3D structures and biological functions, and will familiarize with the main methodologies in protein structure determination. • Acquired skills of the student with this course: At the end of the course, students will be able to query protein 3D databases, and to create publication quality images and movies by molecular graphics. • Critical and judgmental skills acquired at the end of the course: Students will know how to discuss in depth structure-function relationships of specific proteins, to interpret in a structural key the biological consequences of genetic mutations, and to address the design of modified protein structures. • Communication skills on course content: The final assessment intends to evaluate acquired knowledge, but also student skills in the use of molecular graphic programs, both in research and in result dissemination. • Ability to continue independently From the knowledge of the addressed topics, students will have acquired the cultural background and the prerequisite skills to face a wide range of Protein Biochemistry issues.