88848 - Plant Interactions with Global Change

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students will have acquired knowledge on the main morphological, physiological and molecular responses of higher plants to environmental cues and the basic mechanisms of tolerance and adaptation to adverse conditions. They will learn about how plants contribute to air quality by the release of biotic particulates and by interfering with air pollutants derived from anthropogenic activities. Due to changes in plant distribution in relation to climate change, students shall become acquainted with the contribution of alien species to the release of such biotic particulates. Students will also learn about methods employed in aerobiology for the quantitative and qualitative assessment of pollen and other air-borne allergens. They will gain the capacity to interpret data and critically read scientific literature relating to this topic.

Course contents

Synthetic framing of plant anatomy and cytology, and of Global Change concept. Adaptation and acclimation strategies of plants to different environmental conditions. Mediterranean plants and extremophiles. Focus on salt and oxidative stresses. Evaluation of different experimental approaches. Epigenetics; stress memory; hormesis; priming. Beneficial microorganisms. Urban green and urban flora. Aerobiology, main airborne bio-allergens (pollens and fungi). Role of plants as organisms able to monitor the environmental quality and to influence it. Possible use of plants in environmental phytoremediation.

Readings/Bibliography

Articles in international specialized journals

Teaching methods

Lectures. Visit and practical activity into the Botanical Garden

Assessment methods

Oral examination

Teaching tools

Power point lessons will be available online on VIRTUALE

Office hours

See the website of Maura Ferri