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General Info

SUBJECT SEMESTER CFU SSD LANGUAGE
119641 - PROGRAMMING

 		First Semester 6 INF/01 ita

Learning objectives

The course aims to provide basic concepts of programming in Python and R languages, as well as an introduction to the Linux environment, in which these languages can be used to develop programs for the analysis and management of huge amounts of biological data.
The ability to work in a Linux environment and to develop programs in Python and R is considered, in the scientific community, an indispensable set of knowledge for:
• supporting study and research in the field of biomedical sciences;
• dealing with and manage the analysis of huge amounts of biological data from current "High throughput" experimental platforms;
• acquiring the tools for modeling biological big data.
• acquiring HPC (High-Performance-Computing) computing skills for the analysis of biological problems that cannot be solved on standard computing resources.
EXPECTED LEARNING RESULTS:
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. At the end of the training activity, the student will be able to apply their knowledge to design and develop pipelines for the analysis of biological big data in Python or R running in a linux computing environment both on a single server node and on a multi-node cluster (HPC) .
ABILITY TO APPLY KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. The knowledge acquired by the students will be useful to be able to analyze and manipulate biological big data in order to understand and model the molecular mechanisms contained in the data.
AUTONOMY OF JUDGMENT. Students must be able to critically interpret the results obtained through the development and execution of the programs discussed in class, as well as choose the most suitable programming language to pursue a specific goal.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS. Students must have the ability to transmit the knowledge acquired in a clear and understandable way, for example by associating each developed program with a pseudo-code, and must demonstrate the ability to present programs to external users through detailed documentation.
LEARNING ABILITY. Students must be able to describe the fundamental topics of Programming, in oral form. This ability will be developed through active involvement through oral discussions in the classroom and exercises carried out in the computer room on specific topics related to the course.
17461 - PROTEOMICS AND METABOLOMIES

 		First Semester 6 BIO/11 ITA

Learning objectives

The course provides the theoretical bases of proteomics, interatomics and matabolomics as relevant scientific disciplines able to provide useful structural and dynamic information about the proteoma and metaboloma. The course will introduce students to the principles and the experimental approaches, and the learning objectives will be achieved by presenting students with the state of innovation in the specific field with a substantial presence in the laboratories. Particular attention will be given to the study of mass spectrometry techniques for the identification of proteins, metabolites and alterations of protein expression, thus enabling them to shed light on the biological complexity of a tissue in order to differentiate / identify a pathological state from the physiological one.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
1) Knowledge and understanding. The student will develop the knowledge of the principles of proteomics and metabolomics. Indispensable for experimental analysis and interpretation of results in biochemical and molecular biological disciplines.
2) Applying knowledge and understanding. The student will also be introduced to the knowledge of the major classes of small biological molecules and metabolites and will learn the basic metabolic pathways through which these molecules are degraded and synthesized. He will be familiar with the main separation methods (2Dgel, HPLC), will use high performance instrumentation (such as MALDI TOF / TOF, ESI-TRAP, ORBITRAP MS) for the identification of proteins and metabolites and will deal with bioinformatic tools for data visualization and interpretation.
3) Making judgments. Students will be able to independently carry out observations and experiments in the field of Proteomics or metabolomics. They will also have critical thinking and evaluation skills to rationalize them in an interpretative model.
4) Communicative skills. Students will be able to work in groups and communicate clearly their knowledge or the results of their research.
5) Learning skills. Students will need to learn autonomously by using advanced texts in Italian and English. English texts will be provided during the year. Students will also be able to perform bibliographic research even at advanced level, selecting relevant topics of proteomics and metabolomics.
120844 - CELLULAR BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOMOLECULAR TECHNIQUES

 		First Semester 12 BIO/10 ITA

Learning objectives

The course of CELLULAR BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOMOLECULAR TECHNIQUES aims to provide students with (i) theoretical knowledge in the field of cellular biochemistry, examining the mechanisms that regulate the cell cycle in eukaryotes, (ii) theoretical and practical knowledge in protein engineering and theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of the main techniques of biochemistry and molecular biology applied to the study of genes and proteins. Experimental approaches will be addressed, also using the support of bioinformatics, to address complex issues of biochemistry and molecular biology.
In detail, the objectives concern:
1) in-depth analysis of the biochemical and molecular mechanisms of cell cycle control in eukaryotes with particular attention to the experimental approaches used for its elucidation;
2) knowledge of the elements of protein engineering that allow the in silico design of recombinant proteins through bioinformatics tools, and subsequently, their expression and purification using both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. This part of the course includes laboratory exercises regarding the cloning of a eukaryotic gene and its expression in bacteria.
3) transmission of specific skills for the manipulation of nucleic acids and proteins and their analysis (mutagenesis and genome editing techniques), for the analysis of gene expression levels (qPCR, microarrays, differential transcriptomics) and the regulation of gene expression (study of epigenetic modifications and protein-DNA interactions), for the study of metabolic pathways through the analysis of protein-protein interactions. Advances in the field of whole genome sequencing and the application of biomolecular techniques in the medical-diagnostic field will also be illustrated. Bioinformatics tools will be used for in silico predictions of interactions between biomolecules, or as complementary to the use of the techniques discussed. Finally, laboratory exercises are planned regarding techniques for the study of nucleic acids and proteins.


EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES
1) Knowledge and understanding: At the end of the course, students will have acquired an in-depth knowledge of the biochemical and molecular bases of cell cycle control in eukaryotes. Furthermore, they will have learned the main techniques both in silico and experimental for the design and expression of recombinant proteins in heterologous systems. Furthermore, they will have achieved an in-depth knowledge of the principles underlying biomolecular techniques used in basic research and medical-diagnostic investigations, of molecular and advanced techniques and of the related bioinformatics tools supporting them. Finally, they will have acquired the ability to understand the experimental approaches needed to answer biological questions, the importance of statistical validation of the results of an experiment and of the controls that make an experiment scientifically reliable.
2) Applied knowledge and understanding: At the end of the course, students will be encouraged to use the knowledge acquired for their application to specific problems, such as the design of new proteins with enhanced and/or more selective activity to be used in various fields of interest (biomedical, agri-food, etc.). Furthermore, they will be able to use the knowledge acquired to evaluate and interpret the results of an experiment, identify its critical points and optimize it by evaluating the possible impact of variations in the parameters involved; they will be able to orient themselves among the main qualitative and quantitative methodologies, to select the most suitable one for the study of the biological problem under examination; they will be able to put into practice the knowledge acquired to carry out the experiments planned during the practical exercises.
3) Autonomy of judgment: Students must be able to make the most suitable experimental choices to answer a biological question. Students must acquire the ability to understand and critically discuss the experimental results obtained in the laboratory and use them as a starting point for planning subsequent experiments. Finally, they must be able to interpret the scientific works proposed during the course.
4) Communication skills: Students must have the ability to transmit the knowledge acquired in a clear and understandable way, even to non-experts, and must demonstrate the ability to present the information also with diagrams and/or formulas. During the lessons, students will be encouraged to discuss and compare opinions to also develop their communication skills that will be verified during the exam.
5) Learning ability: Students must be able to describe scientific topics related to the course. This ability will be developed through the active involvement of students through oral discussions in the classroom and practical experiences during the hours dedicated to exercises.
119000 - ENGLISH B2

 		First Semester 6 ita

Learning objectives

The English language course aims to familiarize students with the techniques of writing in the English language which differs from writing in Italian. This course also allows students to produce documents and/or short essays which are relevant for their course of study. The course therefore focuses on two of the four language skills - writing and reading - without forgetting listening and speaking. To achieve these objectives, classes are exclusively taught in English. It is for this reason that the grammatical basis of the language and its phonological aspects are not neglected but analyzed whenever the need arises. The final goal is the achievement of level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), adopted by the Council of Europe.
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. The learner is able to know and understand the topics set out relating to the syntax and vocabulary of the English language for level B2, which concern the structures to be used for detailed descriptions and presentations on topics related to his/her field of interest, both personal and academic. He/she is also able to understand the salient points as well as the details of topics covering a wide range of topics within his/her field of interest.
ABILITY TO APPLY KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. The learner is able to communicate clearly and methodically, emphasising salient points and relevant elements to justify their speech. He/she is able to use linguistic structures in a spontaneous and natural way to respond to any objections from their interlocutors.
AUTONOMY OF JUDGMENT. The learner is able to independently deepen, by means of information and communication technologies, what he/she has learnt with regard to particular aspects of language use concerning not only their precise field of study, but a wide range of topics.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS. The learner has acquired the ability to produce argumentative texts in a methodical manner, emphasising important points and relevant details that support their argumentation. He/she can evaluate different ideas and can propose solutions to different problems.
LEARNING ABILITY. The learner is able to manage their own learning, to search for examples and materials that support their ideas and arguments.
119644 - BIOINFORMATICS I

 		Second Semester 6 BIO/11 ita

Learning objectives

The course aims to train students in various sectors of Bioinformatics, with particular attention to the knowledge of innovative tools used to support research in the biological field.
In detail, the training objectives concern:
1) Basic knowledge of biological databases
2) Query of biological databases in a programmatic way (examples of programmatic query of the various NCBI databases, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/guide/all/, through the use of API- application programming interface)
3) Pairwise alignment algorithms of nucleotide and amino acid sequences
4) Substitution matrices
5) Heuristic algorithms for local alignment of sequences against sequence databases
6) Multiple sequence alignment algorithms
7) Methods for the construction of phylogenetic trees
8) Algorithms for the prediction of RNA structure
9) Algorithms for the prediction of secondary structure of proteins
10) Methods for the comparison between protein structures
11) Classical algorithms for the prediction of protein folding
12) Algorithms based on machine learning for the prediction of protein folding

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. Students must show that they have learned bioinformatics topics included in the course, namely: acquisition of the basic principles of bioinformatics; how biological databases are designed, managed and populated; how sequence similarity searches and alignments of single or multiple sequences are performed; how evolutionary analysis of sequence data is performed through multiple alignments and construction of phylogenetic trees; how secondary and tertiary protein structure predictions are made.
ABILITY TO APPLY KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. Students should have an understanding of the computational approaches discussed in class and be able to apply them to specific biological problems.
AUTONOMY OF JUDGMENT. Students must be able to critically interpret the results obtained through the bioinformatics tools discussed in class, as well as choose the most suitable ones to reach a specific goal.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS. Students must have the ability to transmit the knowledge acquired in a clear and understandable way, even to non-competent people, and must demonstrate the ability to present the acquired information.
LEARNING ABILITY. Students should be able to describe the various topics of Bioinformatics, in oral form. This ability will be developed through active involvement in oral discussions in the classroom and exercises carried out in the computer room on specific topics related to the course.
119645 - APPLIED BIOLOGY

 		Second Semester 6 BIO/13 ita

Learning objectives

The course is aimed at providing students with theoretical and practical knowledge on the main methodologies used in a biology laboratory (centrifugation, spectrophotometric and spectrofluorimetric methods, microscopy, histochemical and immunohistochemical analyses). The course will also allow students to know the main classes of environmental contaminants in terms of chemical/physical characteristics, distribution in environmental matrices, bioaccumulation, bioavailability and biomagnification; to know and understand the physiological mechanisms underlying the biotransformation of the main environmental contaminants. Students will learn to use the main toxicity tests for the characterization of the quality of different environmental matrices, including soils, sediments and waters. They will also learn the meaning of the use of bioindicator organisms and biomarkers. Finally, the student will be able to prepare and manage a dataset for the analysis of experimental data.

EXPECTED LEARNING RESULTS
1. KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. The student will therefore be able to apply the main toxicity tests using the most appropriate test species and interpret the results obtained from the different end-points analyzed. Students will be able to apply the knowledge acquired through the use of appropriate ecological risk analysis models, which provide for the weighted integration of chemical and biological parameters.
2. ABILITY TO APPLIED KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. At the end of the course, the student will be able to use the main equipment provided in a biology laboratory and will be able to perform basic biological analyses for biochemical, cytological, and histological applications.
3. AUTONOMY OF JUDGMENT. Acquisition of autonomy of judgment in reference to the evaluation and interpretation of experimental data produced in the laboratory and reported in scientific articles
4. COMMUNICATION SKILLS. Acquisition of appropriate scientific terminology. Acquisition of adequate instrumental skills for the production of scientific data with reference to the processing and presentation of data.
5. ABILITY TO LEARN. Acquisition of adequate skills for the in-depth study of further skills and knowledge, with reference to the consultation of bibliographical material and the drafting of a scientific paper.
119646 - MOLECULAR ECOLOGY

 		Second Semester 6 BIO/07 ita

Learning objectives

The use of molecular and bioinformatic tools has significantly contributed to our understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes underlying the genesis of biodiversity and the fundamental principles of modern conservation biology. The course aims to provide the student with a thorough understanding of these tools and the main ecological and evolutionary issues that can be addressed through their application. The course will also investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the adaptation of organisms to environmental changes, both current and past, the molecular methods for monitoring the different hierarchical levels of biodiversity, and elements of molecular demography.
EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES
1) Knowledge and understanding. Students who complete this course will be able to solve ecological and evolutionary problems using molecular ecology tools. In general, they will develop the ability to understand the application of the tools of molecular ecology proper for understanding the main eco-evolutionary processes that shape diversity in natural populations.
2) Applying knowledge and understanding. Students who complete this course will be able to apply the knowledge obtained using experimental and bioinformatics tools typical of molecular ecology for solving problems in the ecological and evolutionary fields. In particular, this knowledge will be applied in conservation biology and in invasion biology.
3) Making judgements. Students who complete this course will be able to apply critical reading of scientific literature to formulate informative hypotheses of experimental data.
4) Communication skills. Students will be stimulated to discuss and compare opinions during the course to develop their communication skills. At the end of the course, students will have the ability to communicate the knowledge acquired clearly and understandably.
5) Learning skills. At the end of the course, students will be able to formulate solid scientific questions based on evidence and develop experimental paths by gradually integrating scientific literature and acquired technical knowledge.
118994 - CHEMISTRY OF NATURAL SUBSTANCES

 		Second Semester 6 CHIM/06 ita

Learning objectives

The main educational objective of the Chemistry of Natural Organic Substances consists in providing the student with general concepts, specific knowledge, and adequate examples to classify natural organic substances on the basis of their chemical structure, to evaluate their biosynthetic origin and the corresponding biological properties, also analyzing the most important classes of organic compounds of natural origin produced in the course of secondary metabolism by the animal and plant cells. The training objective will also be achieved thanks to the description and use of examples relating to the application of computational chemistry and bioinformatic techniques in order to predict structure-activity relationships and identify the main pharmacophores present in the molecule. Thanks to this information, the student will be able to recognize the biosynthetic origin and the structural family to which a natural organic substance belongs, and to place it in a general context relating to its possible cellular functions and application in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and cosmetic field. Knowledge will also be provided to understand the main and most recent applications of natural organic substances in the bio-nanotechnology sector, with particular attention to renewable and biodegradable materials, bioplastics and bio-inks, and the design of novel biocatalysts and biosensors. The student will possess critical tools to associate the presence of specific structural characteristics in the molecule with the mechanism of action exerted by the substance at the molecular level, highlighting the relationships between structure and activity, so as to be able to predict, in a critical sense, the biological activities associated with a specific molecular architecture.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
• KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. Knowledge of the structural reasons that allow the classification of a natural organic substance. Knowledge of the main biological activities associated with the different families of natural organic substances also involving computational and bioinformatic analyses. Knowledge of the biosynthesis pathways of secondary metabolites in animal and plant cells. Knowledge of the relationships between chemical structure and biological activity. Knowledge of the application of natural organic substances in biotechnology.
• APPLYING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. In addition to the knowledge acquired through the study of the chemistry of natural organic substances, students will be able to deepen the concepts by reading scientific publications and by the use of dedicated software for the classification of organic substances based on their chemical structure, thus linking the topics covered in the course to experimental research.
• MAKING JUDGMENTS. At the end of the course the student will have acquired the necessary training for a complete autonomy of judgment regarding the possibility of using natural organic substances for the development of service, process, or product in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, cosmeceutical, cosmetic, materials science and bio-nanotechnology fields.
• COMMUNICATION SKILLS. Students will be continuously and constantly invited to actively participate in the lesson in order to deepen the subject and to collect proposals for possible solutions in the case of complex scenarios. In this activity, students will be asked to confront each other in order to support their ideas also by making use of bioinformatic tools, such as software dedicated to the 3D representation and nomenclature of chemical structures. The teaching tool is aimed at increasing communication skills and the ability to know how to work and discuss in a group, all aimed at consolidating the concepts acquired.
• LEARNING SKILLS. The learning skills of the students will be assessed during the course by discussing the contents of scientific publications that will allow them to follow the state of art, highlighting the ability of restitution and of problem solving of the student.
SUBJECT SEMESTER CFU SSD LANGUAGE
119647 - MOLECULAR AND APPLIED GENETICS

 		First Semester 8 BIO/18 ita

Learning objectives

The course is aimed at providing students with advanced knowledge for understanding the main molecular genetic strategies and techniques used for the study of the structure, function and evolution of genes and genomes. Laboratory exercises are planned, including the use of experimental methods and specific instruments for the analysis and manipulation of genomes and single genes.
EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES
1) KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. The student has to demonstrate knowledge of the methodological elements for the molecular genetic analysis of genomes and transcriptomes and for the subsequent understanding of physiological and pathological cellular 'pathways'. The student will possess an advanced knowledge of the mathematical and bioinformatics tools used in molecular genetic approaches.
2) APPLYING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. The student will have acquired theoretical and methodological skills that will allow him to apply the correct investigation strategies to solve specific problems in the field of molecular genetics. In particular, he / she must be able to interpret and process the scientific data derived from the study of scientific articles and databases that use the methodological approaches of molecular genetics, also using bioinformatics tools.
3) MAKING JUDGMENTS. Acquisition of independent judgment in reference to the evaluation and interpretation of experimental data reported in scientific articles
4) COMMUNICATION SKILLS. Acquisition of expression skills with appropriate scientific terminology. Acquisition of adequate skills and tools for communication for what concerns the processing and the presentation of data.
5) LEARNING SKILLS. Acquisition of adequate skills for the deepening of further skills and knowledge for what concerns the consultation of bibliographic material for continuous updating.
119648 - BIOINFORMATICS II

 		First Semester 6 BIO/11 ita

Learning objectives

The course aims to train students in various advanced sectors of Bioinformatics, from the study of 'omics' data, produced by next generation sequencing platforms (Next Generation Sequencing - NGS) in the different areas of: genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics , metagenomics; computational techniques for virtual screening, docking and molecular simulations of biological macromolecules; introduction to systems biology for gene expression modeling.
In detail, the training objectives concern:
1) Basic knowledge on next generation sequencing platforms
2) Raw data formats produced by NGS sequencers
3) Pre-processing programs: quality control and trimming of short reads
4) Algorithms for mapping reads on the reference genome
5) Programs for the calling variant
6) Algorithms for the assembly of genomes or transcriptomes
7) Statistics and R libraries for the analysis of the differential expression of genes and transcripts
8) Study of pipelines for epigenomics and metagenomics
9) Database and algorithms for virtual screening
10) Stochastic algorithms for molecular docking
11) Algorithms for energy minimization, thermalization of the system macromolecular and classical molecular dynamics (all atoms)
12) Equations for the description of dynamic models of gene regulation.

EXPECTED LEARNING RESULTS:
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. Students will have to show that they have learned bioinformatics topics included in the course, namely: acquisition of NGS data analysis methods, ability to design and develop new pipelines for analysis of omics data, ability to model structural data of macromolecules, ability of configuration and molecular dynamics analysis of biological macromolecules, acquisition of introductory concepts of system biology with application to dynamic models of gene regulation.
ABILITY TO APPLY KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. Students should have an understanding of the computational approaches discussed in class and be able to apply them to specific biological problems.
AUTONOMY OF JUDGMENT. Students must be able to critically interpret the results obtained through the bioinformatics tools discussed in class, as well as choose the most suitable ones to reach a specific goal.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS. Students must have the ability to transmit the knowledge acquired in a clear and understandable way, even to non-competent people, and must demonstrate the ability to present the information acquired.
LEARNING ABILITY. Students should be able to describe the various topics of Bioinformatics II, in oral form. This ability will be developed through active involvement through oral discussions in the classroom and exercises carried out in the computer room on specific topics related to the course.
118993 - STAGE

 		First Semester 4 ita
- - ELECTIVE MODULE

 		First Semester 12 ita
OPTIONAL GROUP - - - -
APPLIED BIOPHYSICS AND NANOSCIENCES Second Semester 6 FIS/07 ita

Learning objectives

The course aims to provide students with basic knowledge in the field of molecular biophysics and some advanced spectroscopic and nanotechnological techniques for applications in the biosensory field.
1) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge of the fundamental principles of molecular biophysics mainly aimed at molecular bio-recognition processes. Knowledge of the theoretical and experimental bases of some advanced spectroscopic and nanotechnological techniques for the study of the structural, dynamic and interaction properties of biological systems. Knowledge of the techniques of quantitative analysis of experimental data in relation to the experimental techniques introduced and of bioinformatics tools with particular attention to bio-recognition processes.
2) Applying knowledge and understanding
At the end of the course, students must have acquired a series of knowledge and skills that they will be able to put into practice during the experimental exercises. Students will also be invited to analyze the experimental data obtained using the procedures and methods of analysis presented in the theoretical part.
3) Making judgments
During the course, students will be encouraged to critically discuss the topics presented, also looking for links with previous knowledge. In addition, students will be invited to propose and plan possible developments of the experimental activity carried out and the related data analysis.
4) Communication skills
During the lessons, students will be invited to express any doubts and to present their vision of the topics under discussion so as to develop their communication skills. In addition, during the experimental activity, students will be invited to work in groups so as to develop the ability to interact with others and work in a team. Finally, through a seminar that will be part of the exam, the ability to present a scientific article in a synthetic, rigorous and effective way will be verified.
5) Learning skills
Students will be encouraged to acquire the ability to carry out the various steps that make up the experimental exercises in a conscious and critical way. In addition, they must be able to present the central topics of the course, also relating the various topics to each other. This ability will also be stimulated through the active involvement of students through oral discussions in the classroom and during the hours dedicated to practical exercises.
GENERAL AND APPLIED MYCOLOGY Second Semester 6 BIO/03 ita

Learning objectives

The aim of the course is to provide students with the information needed to understand the biology and diversity of the Fungal Kingdom, which remains one of the main gaps in a biologist's knowledge. Understanding the importance of these organisms in maintaining the balance of any ecosystem, the importance of their interaction with all the other compartments of the biota, the strategies of adaptation, the mechanisms of reproduction at the base of their conservation. Focus on the adaptive strategies to different environments, including extreme ones, and the remarkable metabolic abilities to understand the applicative potentialities of these organisms in biotechnological, medical and environmental fields. This knowledge is an indispensable requisite for understanding the role of Fungi in the balance of ecosystems, even in view of the risks associated to Global Change.
EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES:
1) Knowledge and understanding. To have developed the knowledge of the biodiversity of these organisms and their morphological and physiological characteristics, resulting from adaptation to specific and different environmental conditions and their potential in biotechnological, medical and environmental applications.
2) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding. Knowing how to use the concepts learned in class and developed in the exercises to interpret any morpho-functional alterations due to changes in environmental parameters. Ability to elaborate molecular data ad build up the workflow for a phylogenetic analysis.
3) Autonomy of judgment. Ability to formulate hypotheses in response to possible problems.
4) Communication skills. The acquisition by the students of a scientifically correct terminology related to the topics will be stimulated.
5) Learning skills. Stimulate curiosity and knowledge on the world of Fungi.
BIOPHOTONICS Second Semester 6 FIS/07 ita

Learning objectives

The main objective of the course is to provide students with the basis for: 1) understanding the fundamental processes underlying biophotonics; 2) address the characterization of systems of biological interest with the methodologies introduced, using the appropriate data analysis methodologies.
Expected learning outcomes
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING
At the end of this teaching activity, in an exercise or exam context, the student will have to demonstrate that he has acquired knowledge of the basic elements of biophotonics, of the techniques introduced during the course and of the related data analysis.
ABILITY TO APPLY KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING
At the end of this teaching activity, the student will have to demonstrate that they are able to use and analyze the results of the main optical and spectroscopic imaging technologies for the characterization of biological systems and that they know the relevant applications in the biological field and that they know how to choose, among the approaches introduced, those most suitable for solving the problems of interest, critically analyzing the results.
MAKING JUDGMENTS
At the end of the training activity the person must be able to evaluate the potential of imaging and optical spectroscopy techniques to analyze the processes of interest and to analyze and interpret the experimental results obtained and discuss them in a logical manner.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
The student must demonstrate that they are able to have acquired the necessary communication skills to disseminate the results of the experiments and analyzes conducted using adequate forms of communication also based on the use of IT tools depending on the type of interlocutors.
LEARNING SKILLS
At the end of this training activity, the student will have to demonstrate that they are able to use the knowledge learned to investigate systems and phenomena of interest, different from those taken into consideration during the course.
OPTIONAL GROUP - - - -
EXPERIMENTAL NEUROBIOLOGY Second Semester 6 BIO/06 ita

Learning objectives

The course aims to provide the basic knowledge on how the neurons works, interact each other and are organized in the neuronal tissue, providing a framework on the activity of the neuronal system in terms of genetic, biochemical and molecular aspects.
1) Knowledge and understanding: knowledge of neuron biology and its organization in neuronal tissue and in neuronal systems (Peripheral and Central nervous system). Knowledge of neuron generation and the integration of neurons into neuronal system formation. Basic molecular and bioinformatic knowledge of neuronal circuits for understanding the functioning of the neuronal system
2) Applying knowledge and understanding: the basic knowledge acquired through the study of cellular neurobiology will allow students to understand how the nervous system works. Furthermore, students will then apply the above knowledge to the study of neuronal tissue and systems under pathological conditions.
3) Making judgments: the course offers links with other disciplines of the degree program by providing integrated, current and dynamic knowledge, susceptible of specific insights such as: a) reading of scientific material found through keyword research and also provided and shared with learners see text item; b) possibility to work on the power point material provided by the teacher and available on the above link; c) possibility to participate in themed seminars organized by the teacher
4) Communication skills: during the lessons students are invited to propose their opinion and to study in groups to develop their communication skills. These skills are then verified during the ongoing exams and at the end of the training activities.
5) Learning skills: students must be able to describe scientific topics related to the function of the neuron in the tissue and neuronal systems to understand how the underlying nervous system works and acts. To consider the learning of the objectives as expected, the ability to know and to connect the various topics of the proposed program, to express them through the specific terms and to apply them to related themes will be taken into consideration. These abilities will be developed through the active involvement of students in the in-depth study of the course topics
ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY Second Semester 6 BIO/11 ita

Learning objectives

The course aims to provide adequate knowledge for the understanding of the biochemical and molecular mechanisms responsible for extracellular signal transduction and possible connections between these events and nuclear dynamics. In addition, the mechanisms of regulation of gene expression in some model systems will be thoroughly analyzed, paying attention to possible evolutionary implications. Particular emphasis will be given to the post-transcriptional regulatory strategies in which non-coding RNAs are involved.
Expected learning outcomes
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. To acquire in-depth knowledge of protein-protein interactions (the basis of intracellular communication), and between nucleic acids and proteins (the basis of gene expression control). Owning up-to-date information on the role of catalytic and regulatory RNAs.
APPLYING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. Being able to correlate the three-dimensional structure of proteins and nucleic acids with their biological functions. To possess the ability to translate the latest knowledge of molecular biology into some application areas, such as the medical one.
MAKING JUDGEMENTS. To achieve a fuller understanding of the molecular mechanisms at the basis of life, along with the ability to discuss their role. To acquire the autonomy needed to align the gained scientific knowledge with advances in biological research.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS. To demonstrate mastery of skills and knowing how to convey them adequately. To develop the ability to use the correct terminology.
LEARNING SKILLS. To be able to grasp, rework and discuss the scientific issues dealt with in the lesson, including their applications.
119652 - FINAL TEST

 		Second Semester 30 ita

Learning objectives

The course aims to provide students with basic knowledge in the field of molecular biophysics and some advanced spectroscopic and nanotechnological techniques for applications in the biosensory field.
1) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge of the fundamental principles of molecular biophysics mainly aimed at molecular bio-recognition processes. Knowledge of the theoretical and experimental bases of some advanced spectroscopic and nanotechnological techniques for the study of the structural, dynamic and interaction properties of biological systems. Knowledge of the techniques of quantitative analysis of experimental data in relation to the experimental techniques introduced and of bioinformatics tools with particular attention to bio-recognition processes.
2) Applying knowledge and understanding
At the end of the course, students must have acquired a series of knowledge and skills that they will be able to put into practice during the experimental exercises. Students will also be invited to analyze the experimental data obtained using the procedures and methods of analysis presented in the theoretical part.
3) Making judgments
During the course, students will be encouraged to critically discuss the topics presented, also looking for links with previous knowledge. In addition, students will be invited to propose and plan possible developments of the experimental activity carried out and the related data analysis.
4) Communication skills
During the lessons, students will be invited to express any doubts and to present their vision of the topics under discussion so as to develop their communication skills. In addition, during the experimental activity, students will be invited to work in groups so as to develop the ability to interact with others and work in a team. Finally, through a seminar that will be part of the exam, the ability to present a scientific article in a synthetic, rigorous and effective way will be verified.
5) Learning skills
Students will be encouraged to acquire the ability to carry out the various steps that make up the experimental exercises in a conscious and critical way. In addition, they must be able to present the central topics of the course, also relating the various topics to each other. This ability will also be stimulated through the active involvement of students through oral discussions in the classroom and during the hours dedicated to practical exercises.

Learning objectives

The aim of the course is to provide students with the information needed to understand the biology and diversity of the Fungal Kingdom, which remains one of the main gaps in a biologist's knowledge. Understanding the importance of these organisms in maintaining the balance of any ecosystem, the importance of their interaction with all the other compartments of the biota, the strategies of adaptation, the mechanisms of reproduction at the base of their conservation. Focus on the adaptive strategies to different environments, including extreme ones, and the remarkable metabolic abilities to understand the applicative potentialities of these organisms in biotechnological, medical and environmental fields. This knowledge is an indispensable requisite for understanding the role of Fungi in the balance of ecosystems, even in view of the risks associated to Global Change.
EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES:
1) Knowledge and understanding. To have developed the knowledge of the biodiversity of these organisms and their morphological and physiological characteristics, resulting from adaptation to specific and different environmental conditions and their potential in biotechnological, medical and environmental applications.
2) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding. Knowing how to use the concepts learned in class and developed in the exercises to interpret any morpho-functional alterations due to changes in environmental parameters. Ability to elaborate molecular data ad build up the workflow for a phylogenetic analysis.
3) Autonomy of judgment. Ability to formulate hypotheses in response to possible problems.
4) Communication skills. The acquisition by the students of a scientifically correct terminology related to the topics will be stimulated.
5) Learning skills. Stimulate curiosity and knowledge on the world of Fungi.

Learning objectives

The main objective of the course is to provide students with the basis for: 1) understanding the fundamental processes underlying biophotonics; 2) address the characterization of systems of biological interest with the methodologies introduced, using the appropriate data analysis methodologies.
Expected learning outcomes
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING
At the end of this teaching activity, in an exercise or exam context, the student will have to demonstrate that he has acquired knowledge of the basic elements of biophotonics, of the techniques introduced during the course and of the related data analysis.
ABILITY TO APPLY KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING
At the end of this teaching activity, the student will have to demonstrate that they are able to use and analyze the results of the main optical and spectroscopic imaging technologies for the characterization of biological systems and that they know the relevant applications in the biological field and that they know how to choose, among the approaches introduced, those most suitable for solving the problems of interest, critically analyzing the results.
MAKING JUDGMENTS
At the end of the training activity the person must be able to evaluate the potential of imaging and optical spectroscopy techniques to analyze the processes of interest and to analyze and interpret the experimental results obtained and discuss them in a logical manner.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
The student must demonstrate that they are able to have acquired the necessary communication skills to disseminate the results of the experiments and analyzes conducted using adequate forms of communication also based on the use of IT tools depending on the type of interlocutors.
LEARNING SKILLS
At the end of this training activity, the student will have to demonstrate that they are able to use the knowledge learned to investigate systems and phenomena of interest, different from those taken into consideration during the course.

Learning objectives

The course aims to provide the basic knowledge on how the neurons works, interact each other and are organized in the neuronal tissue, providing a framework on the activity of the neuronal system in terms of genetic, biochemical and molecular aspects.
1) Knowledge and understanding: knowledge of neuron biology and its organization in neuronal tissue and in neuronal systems (Peripheral and Central nervous system). Knowledge of neuron generation and the integration of neurons into neuronal system formation. Basic molecular and bioinformatic knowledge of neuronal circuits for understanding the functioning of the neuronal system
2) Applying knowledge and understanding: the basic knowledge acquired through the study of cellular neurobiology will allow students to understand how the nervous system works. Furthermore, students will then apply the above knowledge to the study of neuronal tissue and systems under pathological conditions.
3) Making judgments: the course offers links with other disciplines of the degree program by providing integrated, current and dynamic knowledge, susceptible of specific insights such as: a) reading of scientific material found through keyword research and also provided and shared with learners see text item; b) possibility to work on the power point material provided by the teacher and available on the above link; c) possibility to participate in themed seminars organized by the teacher
4) Communication skills: during the lessons students are invited to propose their opinion and to study in groups to develop their communication skills. These skills are then verified during the ongoing exams and at the end of the training activities.
5) Learning skills: students must be able to describe scientific topics related to the function of the neuron in the tissue and neuronal systems to understand how the underlying nervous system works and acts. To consider the learning of the objectives as expected, the ability to know and to connect the various topics of the proposed program, to express them through the specific terms and to apply them to related themes will be taken into consideration. These abilities will be developed through the active involvement of students in the in-depth study of the course topics

Learning objectives

The course aims to provide adequate knowledge for the understanding of the biochemical and molecular mechanisms responsible for extracellular signal transduction and possible connections between these events and nuclear dynamics. In addition, the mechanisms of regulation of gene expression in some model systems will be thoroughly analyzed, paying attention to possible evolutionary implications. Particular emphasis will be given to the post-transcriptional regulatory strategies in which non-coding RNAs are involved.
Expected learning outcomes
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. To acquire in-depth knowledge of protein-protein interactions (the basis of intracellular communication), and between nucleic acids and proteins (the basis of gene expression control). Owning up-to-date information on the role of catalytic and regulatory RNAs.
APPLYING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. Being able to correlate the three-dimensional structure of proteins and nucleic acids with their biological functions. To possess the ability to translate the latest knowledge of molecular biology into some application areas, such as the medical one.
MAKING JUDGEMENTS. To achieve a fuller understanding of the molecular mechanisms at the basis of life, along with the ability to discuss their role. To acquire the autonomy needed to align the gained scientific knowledge with advances in biological research.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS. To demonstrate mastery of skills and knowing how to convey them adequately. To develop the ability to use the correct terminology.
LEARNING SKILLS. To be able to grasp, rework and discuss the scientific issues dealt with in the lesson, including their applications.

CHOICE GROUPS YEAR/SEMESTER CFU SSD LANGUAGE
OPTIONAL GROUP - 6 - -
119654 - APPLIED BIOPHYSICS AND NANOSCIENCES Second Year / First Semester 6 FIS/07 ita
119650 - GENERAL AND APPLIED MYCOLOGY Second Year / First Semester 6 BIO/03 ita
120332 - BIOPHOTONICS Second Year / First Semester 6 FIS/07 ita
119649 - EXPERIMENTAL NEUROBIOLOGY Second Year / Second Semester 6 BIO/06 ita
119651 - ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY Second Year / Second Semester 6 BIO/11 ita