AGRICULTURAL GENETIC AND PLANT BREEDING

Course objectives

At the end of the course the student will be able to describe: - understand agricultural genetics and the differences with animal genetics, using specific examples to illustrate them - the main discoveries in the sector and methods of genetic improvement - the biotechnological methodologies applied to the selection of plants and the various methods of genetic improvement applied to the various species of agricultural and non-agricultural interest Specific objectives: 1. Knowledge and understanding - The student will acquire the essential concepts, experimental approaches and techniques used in breeding, using specific examples. 2. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding - The student will acquire the ability to set up a genetic improvement program by applying all the most modern conventional and non-conventional techniques 3. Critical and judgment skills - The student will learn to determine which breeding scheme is the most suitable based on the characteristics of the genome of the plant of interest 4. Ability to communicate what has been learned – The student will learn to discuss and present experimental data 5. Ability to continue studying autonomously throughout life - The student will acquire not only the scientific foundations, but also the methodologies and specific vocabulary of the sector. This knowledge will allow the student to continue their studies independently, even after the end of the course and the passing of the exam.

Channel 1
LUIGI FAINO Lecturers' profile

Program - Frequency - Exams

Course program
Module 1: Introduction to Plant Breeding Lesson 1: History and Basics of Plant Breeding Lesson 2: Overview of Conventional Breeding Techniques Lesson 3: Ethical and Environmental Considerations in Plant Breeding Module 2: Genetics and Genomics Foundations Lesson 1: Basic Genetics - Genes, Chromosomes, and Inheritance Lesson 2: Introduction to Plant Genomics Lesson 3: Tools and Technologies in Genomic Analysis Module 3: Assisted Breeding Techniques Lesson 1: Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS) Theory and Principles Case Studies and Application Examples Lesson 2: Genomic Selection Differences between MAS and Genomic Selection Implementing Genomic Selection in a Breeding Program Lesson 3: Genetic Engineering and CRISPR Techniques in Genetic Modification Regulations, Challenges, and Future Prospects Module 4: Data Management and Statistical Tools Lesson 1: Data Collection and Management in Plant Breeding Lesson 2: Introduction to Biostatistics for Plant Breeders Lesson 3: Software and Tools for Genetic Analysis Module 5: Practical Applications and Case Studies Lesson 1: Designing a Breeding Program Lesson 2: Practical Considerations in Assisted Breeding Lesson 3: Case Studies from Crops around the World Module 6: Field and Laboratory Work Lesson 1: Field Techniques in Plant Breeding Lesson 2: Laboratory Techniques in Genetic Analysis Lesson 3: Workshop on CRISPR Technology Implementation Module 7: Advanced Topics and Future Trends Lesson 1: Challenges in Plant Breeding Under Climate Change Lesson 2: The Role of Bioinformatics in Plant Breeding Lesson 3: Future Trends and Innovations in Plant Breeding Module 8: Course Wrap-Up and Certification Lesson 1: Review of Key Concepts and Techniques Lesson 2: Discussion of Open Questions and Research Areas Lesson 3: Final Examination and Certification
Prerequisites
Genetics
Books
Genetica Agraria - IV Edizione. Genetica e biotecnologie per l’agricoltura. Lorenzetti, Ceccarelli, Rosellini, Veronesi. Genetica Agraria. Pàtron Editore, Bologna. Genetica Agraria. P.J. Russell - S.L. Wolfe - P.E. Hertz - C. Starr - B. McMillan. Edises.
Frequency
it is suggested to attend the course but it is not compulsory. it is required to be present at the practicals of the course
Exam mode
the exam is divided into two parts based on the two modules. the exam takes place through 3 questions to which 5 points are attributed per question. the sum of the points for each question leads to the subtotal for the module to which the points acquired in the other module are added
Bibliography
none
Lesson mode
The course consists of lectures that cover the main topics of the program (5CFU) and Practical sessions (1 CFU). Lectures are not mandatory. At least 75% of laboratory sessions are mandatory.
  • Lesson code10611980
  • Academic year2025/2026
  • CourseBiotechnology and Genomic for Industry and Environment
  • CurriculumSingle curriculum
  • Year1st year
  • Semester2nd semester
  • SSDAGR/07
  • CFU6