96240 - Methods and Techniques in Molecular Biology

Academic Year 2021/2022

  • Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
  • Campus: Bologna
  • Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Biotechnology (cod. 8005)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student has a solid theoretical basis for the understanding and the experimental implementation of the main techniques and methodologies used in biomolecular research. In addition, the student develops critical skills for the selection of molecular techniques and methods most suitable for conducting specific scientific investigations, the ability to interpret the data obtained, and evaluating the use of additional alternative or complementary techniques and/or methodologies.

Course contents

The course will deal with techniques, methods and experimental approaches derived from molecular biology and widely used in different biological fields.

The main techniques covered are: spectrophotometric techniques for the analysis of DNA and other molecules of biological interest; use of DNA probes for the identification and analysis of specific genomic sequences; DNA and RNA analysis by ultracentrifugation; technologies for the isolation and manipulation of gene and DNA segments; cDNA banks and genomic banks; PCR (polymerase chain reaction); determination of the DNA nucleotide sequence; notes on recent methodologies for the targeted modification of genomes (genome editing); evaluation of the expression of a gene; inhibition of the expression of specific genes: antisense RNA and RNA interference; interactions between biological molecules.

Readings/Bibliography

Study materials will be provided during the course

Teaching methods

Classroom lessons and/or remotely. Possibility to carry out group work.

Assessment methods

Assessment of learning takes place through the final exam, which ascertains the acquisition of the knowledge and skills expected by carrying out a discussion on the topics covered during the course. The evaluation is out of thirty.

Teaching tools

PC, video projection and board

Office hours

See the website of Vincenzo Scarlato