B8799 - In vitro Models

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, the student is familiar with cellular models, based on established cell lines or primary culture isolation, and their use as screening platforms and as alternative methods to animal experimentation; understands and is able to apply the principles for designing an in vitro experiment, exploring increasingly complex cultures—from standard monolayers to organoids—including advanced models based on co-cultures, microfluidics, and organ-on-chip systems, along with their corresponding readouts.

Course contents

This course is part of the Integrated Course “B8795 – ANIMAL MODELS.”

COURSE-SPECIFIC CONTENT

The course is structured as follows:

Module 2 – Luciana Giardino

Lectures

General principles and study protocols for:

• 2D cell systems: cell lines and primary cultures (2 hours)

• Stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) (2 hours)

• 3D cell systems: spheroids and organoids (2 hours)

• Co-culture systems and microfluidics (2 hours)

Alternatives to animal experimentation: models of neurological, metabolic, and hypoxic-ischemic disorders (3 hours)

Selection of appropriate readouts for the assessment of: (2 hours)

• Cell viability and cell cycle

• Mitochondrial function

• Lysosomal function

Selection of analytical approaches: (2 hours)

• Biochemical and biomolecular analyses

• Morphological analyses

• Omics approaches

Single-cell analysis (1 hour)

Module 1 – Corinne Quadalti

Practical Classes/Laboratory Activities

• Critical analysis of in vitro models: developing critical skills in the evaluation and interpretation of experimental data and scientific publications (3 hours)

• Designing an in vitro experiment (3 hours)

• Analysis and interpretation of results from in vitro disease models (6 hours)

• Development of an experimental in vitro model and student presentations (4 hours)

Readings/Bibliography

Model Systems in Biology: History, Philosophy, and Practical Concerns. J. Striedter, The MIT Press, 2022

In Vitro Toxicology. Alok Dhawan, Seok (Soga) Kwon, Academic Press, 2017

Teaching methods

Lectures and classroom and laboratory practical activities will be supported by web-based resources, including videos, online portals, and relevant databases.

Teaching materials for the course will be made available on the Virtuale platform (https://virtuale.unibo.it/ ).

In view of the types of activities and teaching methods adopted, attendance of this course requires the successful completion of Modules 1 and 2 via e-learning, as well as Module 3 of the specific training programme on health and safety in study environments. Information on the dates and attendance requirements for Module 2 is available in the dedicated section of the Degree Programme website.

Participation in practical and laboratory activities requires students to wear a laboratory coat and appropriate footwear. Suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) required for the specific activities, such as disposable latex gloves, will be provided.

Assessment methods

The final examination consists of an oral examination.

In assessing the oral examination, the instructor will refer to the following grading scale:

• Knowledge of a very limited number of topics covered in the course and analytical skills demonstrated only with the instructor’s guidance; use of generally correct language → 18–22/30;

• Knowledge of a limited number of topics covered in the course and ability to perform independent analysis only in relation to straightforward procedural issues; use of correct language → 23–26/30;

• Knowledge of a broad range of topics covered in the course, ability to make independent choices based on critical analysis, and good command of subject-specific terminology → 27–29/30;

• Substantially comprehensive knowledge of the topics covered in the course, ability to independently perform critical analysis and establish connections between different topics, full command of subject-specific terminology, and strong argumentation and self-reflection skills → 30–30 with honours (30L).

The result of the oral examination will be communicated at the end of the examination. A minimum score of 18/30 is required to pass.

Students with specific learning disabilities (SLDs) or temporary or permanent disabilities: students are advised to contact the relevant University office well in advance (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it/per-studenti ). The office will propose any appropriate accommodations to the students concerned. Such accommodations must be submitted to the instructor for approval at least 15 days in advance. The instructor will assess their suitability, also in relation to the learning outcomes of the course.

With regard to the assessment of learning outcomes, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is prohibited. Any use of AI constitutes a violation of academic integrity.

Teaching tools

PowerPoint presentations in PDF format, scientific publications in specialized journals, websites, videos.

If students struggle to understand the material, the instructor is available for meetings after class or by appointment via email. Additional resources will be provided if necessary.

Office hours

See the website of Luciana Giardino

See the website of Corinne Quadalti

See the website of