- Docente: Giorgio Milazzo
- Credits: 3
- SSD: BIOS-14/A
- Language: English
- Teaching Mode: In-person learning (entirely or partially)
- Campus: Bologna
- Corso: Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Molecular and Cell Biology (cod. 6770)
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from Sep 30, 2026 to Nov 18, 2026
Learning outcomes
At the end of the module the student will have acquired the basic aspects of the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that elicit cellular transformation and promote progression of cancer cells towards more severe and aggressive phenotypes. The student will also learn the technical and molecular approaches to analyze the genetic and epigenetic features of cancer cells and will be trained in posing and solving critical questions addressing key issues of cancer biology.
Course contents
Genetic bases of cancer.
Role of viruses in cell transformation.
Identification and molecular mechanism of oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes.
Epigenetic bases of cancer, epigenetic complexes and their role in tumor initiation and progression.
Functional screens employed to identify novel genetic/epigenetic vulnerabilities that contribute to cancer formations.
Strategies of cancer gene therapy.
Readings/Bibliography
Original articles provided during the course.
Teaching methods
Slides, white board and scientific brainstorming.
Assessment methods
The Cancer Biology exam will consist of a single written test covering the two modules.
The test will include 30 focused multiple-choice questions (15 per module) and 2 open-ended questions (one per module).
The final grade will be calculated as follows:
- 1/3 of the total grade will be based on the multiple-choice questions
- 1/3 of the total grade will be assigned to each open-ended question
The final grade, expressed out of 30, will be a single overall score for all modules.Students will have two hours to complete the entire written test.
Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible ( https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.
Students recognized as “working students”: please 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.With regard to assessment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) is prohibited. Any use of AI constitutes a violation of academic integrity.
Teaching tools
Slides and scientific articles.
Office hours
See the website of Giorgio Milazzo
SDGs
This teaching activity contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN 2030 Agenda.