Chemistry and biochemistry, biology and genetics 3Module Biology and genetics
Academic Year 2025/2026 - Teacher: ROBERTO CASTIGLIONEExpected Learning Outcomes
The course is designed to provide students with a basic knowledge of Biology and Genetics, necessary for the understanding of the fundamental principles of modern Cell and Molecular Biology, including introductory elements of Mendelian and human genetics. At the end of the module, students will have acquired essential knowledge of the structure and function of the main cellular compartments, as well as of the mechanisms underlying genetic inheritance and the flow of genetic information.
Course Structure
Should the course be delivered in blended or distance-learning mode, variations may be introduced, provided that they do not affect the content of the programme as outlined in the syllabus.
Required Prerequisites
General knowledge of the structure and function of the main biological macromolecules and of cellular informational metabolism.
Attendance of Lessons
Mandatory, in accordance with the attendance requirements and percentages established by the Degree Programme regulations.
Detailed Course Content
BIOLOGY AND GENETICS
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Introduction to the course: eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells;
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Biological macromolecules;
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DNA, chromatin, and chromosomes;
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Gene structure and function;
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Transcription in eukaryotes and prokaryotes;
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Translation in eukaryotes and prokaryotes;
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DNA replication in eukaryotes and prokaryotes;
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Mitosis and meiosis;
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Point mutations and chromosomal aberrations;
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Introductory elements of Mendelian and human genetics.
Textbook Information
BIOLOGY AND GENETICS
1 Fondamenti di biologia e genetica. Riccardo Pierantoni, Gilda Cobellis, Rosaria Meccariello. Ed. EdiSES
2 Biologia e Genetica G. De Leo, S. Fasano, E. Ginelli Ed. EdiSES
3 L'essenziale di biologia molecolare della cellula (testo di approfondimento). B. Alberts et al. Ed. Zanichelli
Learning Assessment
Learning Assessment Procedures
The assessment of learning outcomes may also be carried out through online modalities, should circumstances require it.
Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises
Gene mutations
The eukaryotic cell
The genetic code
mRNA synthesis and processing
Translation
Cellular membranes and transport mechanisms
Ultrastructure of prokaryotic cell walls