- Docente: Provvidenza Maria Abruzzo
- Credits: 1
- Language: Italian
- Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
- Campus: Bologna
- Corso: Single cycle degree programme (LMCU) in Medicine and Surgery (cod. 6733)
Learning outcomes
At the end of the Laboratory of Biology and Genetics course, the student has gained experience with the main methods of cell biology, general and molecular genetics applied to biomedical sciences.
In particular, students understand the fields of application and limitations of the main techniques used in cell biology, with special attention to cell cultures, biotechnologies, and the use of transgenic animals.
They have learned to identify the elements of a gene in a real DNA sequence, are able to consult major online molecular genetics databases, have performed a basic DNA extraction and discussed the rationale behind the method. They can design a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) experiment to amplify DNA and solve problems related to Mendelian inheritance of traits.
They have learned to reconstruct the path from experimental data to the development of current fundamental biomedical knowledge, to evaluate the methodological aspects of knowledge, adopting a critical approach to study, and to become aware of the importance of the scientific method in research and medical practice.
They have also acquired advanced tools for bibliographic research by practicing the critical reading of scientific literature in order to enhance their ability to communicate and discuss experimental data.
Course contents
The Biology and Genetics Laboratory is organized into theoretical and practical activities aimed at studying aspects of translational medicine—from the research bench to clinical application. These activities are intended to complement traditional lectures and are designed to create an integrated learning path between Biology and Genetics.
Students will have the opportunity to approach theoretical topics covered in class from an experimental perspective, focusing on certain molecular and cellular biology technologies that have led to fundamental biological and genetic discoveries and that continue to be used in the biomedical field. They will also understand the importance of these technologies in both basic sciences and translational medicine.
Furthermore, students will use multimedia systems and will learn to use analytical software and databases useful for solving biological problems presented during the course.
The list of topics proposed is reported below in Module LZa:
Bibliographic research: Students will conduct bibliographic searches using PubMed, and identify possible search strategies that can be used to find citations on various topics proposed by the teacher.
Cloning technology and its applications in the biomedical field: Students will have the opportunity to design a cloning experiment using computer software, which will help them understand possible cloning strategies and solve specific problems posed by the teacher
Readings/Bibliography
Protocols, articles, and useful diagrams will be provided by the teacher from time to time.
Teaching methods
- Virtual experiences, movies, teamwork.
- Use of databases
- Practical laboratory experiences
As concerns the teaching methods of this course unit, all students must attend Module 1, 2 on Health and Safety online.
Assessment methods
At the end of each activity, a collective discussion is scheduled to ensure full understanding of the topics covered. During the final oral examination, students may be asked to discuss the theoretical and practical activities undertaken.
Teaching tools
- Slides with images and schemes
- Databases and tutorials available online and software
- Scientific articles
Office hours
See the website of Provvidenza Maria Abruzzo