B1822 - Plant Specialized Metabolites and Principles of Metabolomics

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student knows the theoretical and practical aspects related to the specialized metabolism of plants of nutritional, medicinal, and cosmetic interest. This will be coupled with an understanding of the main techniques for the qualitative/quantitative analysis of relevant metabolites, as well as the novel techniques for plants metabolomic analysis.

Course contents

The course consists of 50 hours of lectures, 6 hours of practical laboratory and 4 hours of computer laboratory. The topics covered are as follows:

- Plant's specilized metabolites and biosynthetic pathways

- Biological role and Applications of Specialized Metabolites for Humans

- Techniques employed fot the obtainment and analysis of specialized metaboliyes

- Metabolomics: General Aspects 

- Experimental Design for Metabolomic Analysis of Plants

- Key Analytical Techniques for Metabolomic Analysis of Plants

- Major Applications of Metabolomics in Plant Science

- Hands-on: Laboratory experience (extraction of plant material and Thin Layer Chromatography)

- Hands-on: Computer Session for Data Processing of a Case Study

Prerequisites: basic knowledge of inorganic and organic chemistry.

Readings/Bibliography

Dewick “Chimica, biosintesi e bioattività delle sostanze naturali” Ed. Piccin.

Scientific papers and reviews (provided by the professor).

Teaching methods

Lectures and dialogues supported by PowerPoint and video presentations.


Practical laboratory and computer-based exercises.

Assessment methods

The assessment of learning takes place via an oral interview (duration approx. 20-30 min). In order to pass the examination, it is necessary to demonstrate at least a basic knowledge of the core topics of the course. The student's critical ability with respect to case studies from the literature will also be assessed.

Students with Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) or with temporary or permanent disabilities are strongly advised to contact the University Office in charge in due time ([https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en ]). The office will be responsible for proposing any necessary accommodations to the students concerned. These accommodations must be submitted for the instructor's approval at least 15 days in advance, and the instructor will assess their suitability in relation to the learning objectives of the course.

Students with recognized "student-worker" status: consult the dedicated website (https://www.unibo.it/it/studiare/guida-alla-scelta-del-corso/conciliare-studio-e-lavoro ) to request their status and the measures provided.

Teaching tools

Power point slides, video, and scientific papers. 

Office hours

See the website of Ilaria Chiocchio