CFU
6
Length
14 Weeks
Semester DD
Second
The following topics will be addressed: the organization of the cell, lipids and biological membranes, nucleic acids and genetic code, DNA replication and transcription, control of gene expression, proteinsynthesis in eukarioticsysthem, amino acids and their properties, the shape and structure of proteins, protein function, enzymes and their regulation, allosteric proteins, hemoglobin and oxygen transport, vitamins and coenzymes, bioenergetic processes in the cell, signal transduction and visual system, molecular motors, extracellular matrix and tissue engineering, biomacromolecular microchips (Microarray of DNA and proteins). Experiences in laboratory on the main techniques for the study end the characterization of the bio-macromolecules, on the preparation of scaffold for tissue regeneration, principles of bioinformatics on biological macromolecules and visit at a start-up of the University as model of traslational research.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
The educational objective of the teahcing course is to provide the student with a molecular knowledge of the cellular biochemical processes, of the functional and structural characteristics of distinct biological macromolecules (nucleic acids, proteins and lipids); this in the perspective of a multidisciplinary training foreseen during the Master's Degree in Materials Science and Technology. In particular, the student will acquire knowledge on the structure and function of biological macromolecules, protein synthesis and regulation processes, enzymatic activity and its regulation, the molecular mechanisms of molecular signal transduction systems that are at the basis of sensory processes, motors and cell differentiation for tissue regeneration. The final aim of the course is also to provide elements of knowledge on the techniques for the production, purification and characterization of biological macromolecules (nucleic acids and proteins), for their application also for the synthesis of new biomaterials. Furthermore, the course also aims to provide the basis on the use of bioinformatics databases and programs that can help in the correct setting up of experimental research work.
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING:
The student will develop the ability to broaden his/her knowledge and understanding of chemical-biological topics, which allow for the elaboration and/or application of original ideas, often in a research context
APPLYING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING:
The student will be able to apply the knowledge acquired in the biochemical field, and will have the ability to understand and solve new problems and issues in interdisciplinary contexts connected to his own field of Materials Science and Technology
MAKING JUDGEMENTS:
The student will acquire the ability to integrate Biochemical knowledge and manage complexity, as well as to make judgments based on the knowledge acquired.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS:
The student will be able to communicate clearly and unambiguously the knowledge acquired both to experts in the disciplinary sector and to lay people.
LEARNING SKILLS:
The student will develop the ability to learn the topics of biological chemistry that will allow him/her to continue to study mostly in a self-directed and autonomous way.