57113 - Applied Biology

Learning outcomes

The student is expected to reach a basic knowledge about main cellular functions, which are related to cell structure. The student will also understand the basis of human reproduction and of heredity

Course contents

PRINCIPLES OF BIOLOGY
1- Concept of living being and properties; the scientific method.

Biological role of elements, molecules and macromolecules; structure and properties of water; proteins, nucleic acids.

THE CELL
2- The cellular doctrine.

Prokariotic and eukariotic cells.
Shape, size and structure of the eukaryotic cell; the plasma membrane; the cytoplasm; intracellular membrane system: rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosome, peroxisome; the nucleus: DNA, chromatine and chromosomes; the mitochondria; the ribosomes; the cytoskeleton: actin filaments, intermediate filaments and microtubules

3- Cell-cell communication.


THE GENETIC INFORMATION

4- DNA. The human genome; the eukaryotic gene; gene expression: transcription, genetic code and traslation.

5- RNAs: types and functions

6- Genetic code, tRNA, rybosomes and protein syntesys. Translation and protein modifications.

7- Gene and chromosome mutations

CELL DIVISION

8- Cell cycle, DNA duplication and mitosis.

9- From the cell to the tissue: gene expression regulation and differentiation. Stem cells.

10- Cell death and cancer

11- Meiosis

12- Spermatogenesis, ovogenesis, ovarian cycle, uterine cycle, fertilization.

Readings/Bibliography

Biology

Solomon X Edition

Teaching methods

Lessons

Assessment methods

Written (multiple choice and/or open questions)

Teaching tools

Detailed program, suggested books and any additional material will be provided via Moodle platform.

Office hours

See the website of Allison Piovesan