96028 - Microbial Genetics and Molecular Virology

Learning outcomes

"This course explores the genetic, epigenetic, and genomic mechanisms that shape microbial physiology and virus-host interaction, in dynamic environments influenced by antibiotics, vaccines, pollution, and climate changes. Students will investigate the molecular foundations of microbial adaptation, with a focus on extrachromosomal genetic elements and their role in responding to environmental stimuli—ranging from individual hosts to entire ecosystems. A second theme of the course is the ecological and molecular impact of viruses. As obligate intracellular entities, viruses engage in intricate interactions with their hosts, influencing biological processes on both sides. Through lectures and hands-on laboratory work, students will also gain practical experience with molecular techniques used to engineer recombinant organisms and assess viral effects on host metabolism. By the end of the course, students will have a deeper understanding of microbial resilience, genetic plasticity, and the role of viruses in shaping global ecosystems."

Course contents

Lessons of molecular microbiology (frontal lessons, 3 CFU):

• Molecular and cellular aspects of host-microbe interaction during infection
• Genomics of microbial virulence
• Applied and molecular aspects of epigenetic gene regulation in bacteria
• Microbial genome plasticity and antimicrobial drug resistance
• Genomic tools in microbial taxonomy and epidemiology

Lessons of molecular Virology (2 CFU of frontal lessons + 2 CFU of lab activity):

• Introduction to viral genetics;
• Molecular basis of virus-host interaction;
• Comparative analysis of the possibility of exploiting different viruses to modify cellular functions;
• Analysis of available techniques used to generate recombinant viruses;
• Recombineering: rationale and applications;

• Recombineering: an experimental approach (laboratory activity)

Readings/Bibliography

No specific textbooks are required. The material used can be accessed on-line in the form of scientific reviews and/or specific publications in ISI journals. Additional material will be made available on the website (https://virtuale.unibo.it/ ).

Teaching methods

The Course consists of 7 CFU (5 CFU of frontal lessons and 2 CFU of laboratory practice). This latter lab activity will be performed at the BioTech Labs (Navile, via Beverara Bologna) in single bench working positions and biohazard-hoods. The aim of this lab practice is to: a) get used to laboratory instrumentations commonly used in microbiology and virology fields; b) get technical skills required to handle biological specimens under safety conditions; c) reach the learning outcomes

All students (including all the international incoming exchange students, i.e. ERASMUS) must attend Module 1, 2 online [https://www.unibo.it/it/servizi-e-opportunita/salute-e-assistenza/salute-e-sicurezza/sicurezza-e-salute-nei-luoghi-di-studio-e-tirocinio], while Module 3 on health and safety is to be attended in class. Information about Module 3 attendance schedule is available on the website of your degree programme ("studiare"--"formazione obbligatoria su sicurezza e salute").

Students with special needs and/or official certifications are encouraged to contact the course lecturer directly, copying the DSA service (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it ) in the communication.

Students recognized as “working students” are invited to consult the dedicated website (https://www.unibo.it/en/study/guide-to-choosing-your-programme/balancing-study-and-work ) to apply for this status and to learn about the available measures.

Assessment methods

The purpose of the final examination is to assess the achievement of the learning outcomes outlined above, as well as the student's ability to comprehend and discuss the specific topics covered in the course.

The examination consists of two components: one (oral) focused on the material presented in the Microbial Genetics module, and the other (written) covering Molecular Virology along with laboratory-related questions. The final grade will be calculated as the average of the scores obtained in both exams.

AI use is not allowed during the tests.

Teaching tools

Lecture Materials: All materials used during in-person lectures will be provided in digital format. These lectures primarily consist of PowerPoint presentations focused on specific research topics.

Supplementary Resources: To support deeper exploration of the subjects covered in class, students will have access to scientific research articles, review papers, and select online resources

Office hours

See the website of Renato Brandimarti

See the website of Marco Rinaldo Oggioni