B8780 - Advanced Analytical Techniques

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students will be familiar with the principles and applications of the main techniques used in biotechnology; they will understand the basic concepts behind methods for transcriptomic analysis of populations and single cells, multiparametric proteomics, and advanced imaging (e.g., confocal, light-sheet, live imaging, high-content screening), with references to two- and three-dimensional image analysis, within the context of in vivo and in vitro studies; knows and is able to apply the principles of flow cytometry to the study of cell biology; knows and is able to apply protein analysis techniques.

Course contents

SPECIFIC CONTENTS OF THE COURSE

MODULE 1 – Luciana Giardino

The program is structured as follows:

Theoretical lessons:

1. Knowledge of the fundamental principles of population and single cell analysis in in vitro studies (2 hours)

2. Knowledge of the fundamental principles of omics techniques (transcriptomics and proteomics) from biological sample to result (5 hours)

3. Knowledge of the fundamental principles of basic and advanced microscopy from biological sample to result (confocal, light sheet) (5 hours)

4. Knowledge of the fundamental principles of high-throughput single cell analysis (high-content screening) (3 hours)

5. Knowledge of the fundamental principles of two- and three-dimensional imaging analysis in in vitro and in vivo studies (5 hours)

6. Analysis and critical discussion of the results relating to experimental sets obtained with the techniques described (4 hours)

MODULE 2 – Chiara Bernardini

The program is structured as follows:

Theoretical lessons:

1. Knowledge of the fundamental principles of flow cytometry applied to cell biology (3 hours)

2. Knowledge of advanced immunoenzymatic protein analysis techniques (2 hours)

3. Knowledge of advanced mono/two-dimensional protein analysis techniques (3 hours)

Laboratory:

1. Preparation of samples for flow cytometry analysis from complex biological matrices (8 hours)

2. Identification of membrane antigens for the characterization of cell populations through cytometric analysis and comparison with traditional techniques (6 hours)

3. Analysis and discussion of the results obtained (2 hours)


MODULE 3 – Augusta Zannoni

The program is structured as follows:

Exercises

1. Reading and understanding a publication on advanced protein analysis techniques (4 hours)

2. Preparation and presentation of research with particular reference to methods and results relating to advanced protein analysis techniques (8 hours)

Readings/Bibliography

The teaching material is available on the Virtual Platform (https://virtuale.unibo.it/).

Scientific publications provided by the professor

Teaching methods

The course includes both theoretical lectures and practical/laboratory sessions.

Considering the types of activities and teaching methods adopted, attendance for this course requires the successful completion of Modules 1 and 2 via e-learning, and Module 3 on health and safety training in study environments. Information about the schedule and access to Module 3 is available in the dedicated section of the Degree Program website.

Participation in practical and laboratory sessions requires wearing a lab coat and appropriate footwear. Suitable personal protective equipment (PPE), such as disposable latex gloves, will be provided as needed.

Assessment methods

The assessment for the Course (Module 1, 2, 3) consists of an oral exam presentation (PPT format) in groups of a scientific publication chosen by the teacher.

Average duration of the exam: 20 minutes.

In evaluating the oral exam, the instructor will use the following grading scale:

- Basic understanding of only a few course topics; analysis skills emerge only with the instructor’s help; generally correct language → 18–22

- Limited knowledge of several topics; independent analysis only on procedural issues; correct language use → 23–26

- Broad knowledge of course topics; ability to make autonomous critical judgments; mastery of discipline-specific terminology → 27–29

- Comprehensive understanding of course content; fully independent critical analysis and connections; excellent command of terminology and argumentation skills → 30–30 with honors

Teaching tools

PowerPoint presentations, videos, software for viewing digital slides.

In case of difficulty understanding the course content, the instructor is available for clarification meetings, which must be scheduled via email.

Office hours

See the website of Luciana Giardino

See the website of Chiara Bernardini

See the website of Augusta Zannoni