D0204 - MODELLI ANIMALI

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student will be familiar with the applications of animal models in the study of diseases and in the development of therapeutic strategies, learning to evaluate their advantages and limitations. The student will also acquire knowledge of the basic techniques for the proper care, housing, and handling of laboratory animals, ensuring the correct design and conduct of experiments.

Course contents

This course is a component of the Integrated Course Applied Biotechnology in Reproduction, Regenerative Medicine, and Translational Medicine.

To facilitate a better understanding of the topics covered in this course, students are recommended to have previously acquired knowledge of General Pathology.

Course Content:

1. Introduction to Animal Models: Definition, classification, and selection criteria for animal models (3 hours).
2. Oncology Models: Cancer models generated using CRISPR-Cas9 technology, tumor xenograft models, transgenic models, chemically induced carcinogenesis models, and spontaneous tumor models (4 hours).
3. Cardiovascular Disease Models: Models of myocardial ischemia, hypertension, and atherosclerosis (2 hours).
4. Infectious Disease Models: Experimental models of viral diseases (2 hours).
5. Gastrointestinal Disease Models: Models of alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (3 hours).
6. Visual System Models: Experimental models of retinal diseases (2 hours).

Readings/Bibliography

Animal Models for the Study of Human Disease.P. Michael. Conn ; P. Michael Conn editor. San Diego : Elsevier Science & Technology, 2017.

Teaching methods

The course includes theoretical lectures and interactive learning activities delivered through the Wooclap platform.

Assessment methods

Assessment for the Integrated Course Applied Biotechnologies for Reproduction, Regenerative and Translational Medicine consists of a written examination conducted in person through the University online examination platform (Esami Online – EOL).

The examination includes a total of 24 questions, structured as follows:

• 5 multiple-choice questions for each module of the integrated course, for a total of 20 multiple-choice questions (1 point for each correct answer);
• 1 open-ended question for each module of the integrated course, for a total of 4 open-ended questions (graded from 0 to 2.5 points each).

Unanswered questions receive a score of zero.

Students have 30 minutes to complete the examination.

During the examination, the use of supporting materials or electronic devices, including calculators, tablets, smartwatches, and computers, is not permitted, except where expressly authorized by the instructor. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is strictly prohibited. Any use of AI constitutes a violation of academic integrity.

The examination is passed with a minimum final grade of 18/30.

A failing performance does not result in a numerical grade but is recorded as either withdrawn or failed in the electronic examination record on AlmaEsami and therefore does not affect the student's academic transcript.

The results of the individual assessments and the final grade will be published on the AlmaEsami platform (https://almaesami.unibo.it/ ) within five working days of the examination date.

Students may reject the final grade once by notifying the coordinating instructor via e-mail within five working days from the publication of the results.

The coordinating instructor responsible for the official registration of grades for this Integrated Course is Prof. Eleonora Iacono.

Students may register for examination sessions through the AlmaEsami platform (https://almaesami.unibo.it/ ). Examination sessions are scheduled within the periods established by the academic calendar. Additional examination sessions are reserved for students who are beyond the normal duration of their degree programme.

Accommodations for Students with Disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders (DSA)

Students with temporary or permanent disabilities or specific learning disorders (DSA) are encouraged to contact the relevant University support office in advance (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it/per-studenti ). The office will propose any necessary accommodations, which must be submitted to the course instructor for approval at least 15 days before the examination date. The instructor will evaluate the appropriateness of the requested accommodations in relation to the learning objectives of the course.

Teaching tools

Computer and multimedia projector in the classroom.

Students will need a computer, tablet, or smartphone to participate in the interactive Wooclap sessions.

Students who experience difficulties in understanding the course material are encouraged to contact the instructor by email to arrange an appointment for individual support and clarification.

Office hours

See the website of Giuseppe Sarli